Dubai is known for its diverse culinary scene, offering its residents and visitors a wide range of international cuisine.
One cuisine that stands out for its unique flavours and rich cultural heritage is Kashmiri cuisine from the Kashmir Valley region of northern India – famed for its aromatic spices, flavorful curries, and succulent meats.
For those living in Dubai, several restaurants serve authentic Kashmiri cuisine. These eateries serve traditional dishes, from Rogan Josh and Yakhni to lesser-known Gushtaba and Tabakh Maaz.
Whether you enjoy spicy food or prefer milder flavours, everyone can enjoy something here.
List Of Best Kashmiri Food
Rogan Josh
Rogan Josh, an aromatic lamb curry, is an iconic dish from Kashmir that mutton lovers must try. This exquisite dish is prepared using the finest recipes of the Mughals, resulting in a rich aroma and mouth-watering taste that melts in your mouth.
Goshtaba
Kashmiris’ love for red meat is evident in their renowned dishes, including the popular Goshtaba, a traditional mutton recipe staple in all royal gatherings.
These savoury meatballs, simmered in a yoghurt-based sauce, boast a delectable flavour and a tantalizing aroma that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Kashmiri Rajma
It’s highly recommended to taste the delicious Rajma curry prepared with the flavorful spices of Kashmir.
Among the three types of Rajma commonly available in the Indian market, namely Chitra, red kidney beans, and Kashmiri, the latter is widely regarded as the finest and most popular due to its delightful and sweet flavour.
Naat Yakhni
Naat Yakhni, a popular dish from Kashmir, is a delightful treat for mutton enthusiasts.
It is made by simmering mutton in a yoghurt-based gravy infused with unique ingredients, including mawal flowers, traditional Kashmiri spices, mint leaves, and onion gravy. This signature recipe is typically served with rice and boasts a light yet juicy gravy that is easy to digest.
Overall, Naat Yakhni is a must-try dish showcasing Kashmiri cuisine’s exotic flavours.
Kashmiri Muji Gaad
Each region has its signature festive cuisine, and in Kashmir, locals commemorate their festivals by preparing the renowned Kashmiri Muji Gaad dish.
This traditional Kashmiri recipe is highly sought-after, owing to its amalgamation of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian ingredients.
Made using fish and lotus stem, the dish has a distinctive flavour that cannot be replicated elsewhere.
If you ever find yourself in Kashmir, indulge in the delectable Kashmiri Muji Gaad.
Nadir Monji
Kashmiri cuisine is renowned for its exquisite flavours that enhance the taste of each dish, and the Nadir Monji is a prime example of this.
These crispy lotus stem fries are a delightful snack, especially on a rainy day. Pairing Nadir Monji with a steaming cup of tea is a must-try experience.
The fritters are typically accompanied by delicious tamarind and onion chutneys, which enhance the crunchiness and add an extra layer of flavour.
Often referred to as Monji Gool, this popular street food in Kashmir is simply irresistible.
Best Restaurant For Kashmiri Food In Dubai
- Nazcaa
- Vietnamese Foodies DMCC
- Kashmir Darbar Restaurant
- Meerz Restaurant & Café
- Pak Kashmir Darbar
- Shehar E Karachi Restaurant
- Eagle Restaurant Oud Metha
- Rasoi Ghar Restaurant LLC
- Desi Deira Restaurant
- Muhammad Iqbal Restaurant
- Aaraamam Restaurant
What Is The Most Well-Known Cuisine In Dubai?
Madrouba is a highly favoured dish in Dubai and neighbouring countries such as Bahrain and Oman.
Although it can be enjoyed with different meats, the chicken variation is the most famous.
The dish is created by combining rice, garlic, onion, tomatoes, yogurt, a blend of spices, and a modest amount of butter.
Additionally, crushed grains are incorporated into the mixture, providing a unique texture and flavour.
Madrouba is a versatile dish made with various meats, but chicken Madrouba is the most popular and widely loved for its rich taste and tender texture.
It’s typically prepared by first sautéing the chicken in a blend of spices, garlic, and onion before adding it to rice and crushed grains.
What Is The Popular Cuisine Of Kashmir?
Dum Aaloo, also known as Dum Olav, is a beloved dish of Kashmiri cuisine cooked to perfection with aromatic spices like ginger powder, fennel, and other hot spices that give it its unique taste and aroma.
Dum Aaloo’s unique flavour is enhanced by using yoghurt in its preparation, lending it a creamy texture and subtle tang.
Dum Aaloo is often served with traditional Indian bread such as chapatis or naan to experience its flavours fully.
Their soft, fluffy texture perfectly balances out the rich, savoury tastes of the dish for an incredibly satisfying culinary experience.
What Makes Kashmiri Cuisine Unique Or Distinctive?
Kashmiri cuisine is renowned for its vibrant culinary traditions that uniquely combine cultural and geographical influences.
One of the most distinctive aspects of Kashmiri cuisine is the distinction between wazwan (food for Muslims) and batta (traditional Pandit food).
Wazwan is a multi-course meal usually served during special occasions and celebrations. Wazwan cuisine stands out for its liberal use of spices and herbs, which give dishes a distinct flavour.
The main attraction at wazwan usually consists of an irresistibly tender meat dish such as lamb or goat that has been slow-cooked until it’s perfectly tender.
What Is The Well-Known Vegetable In Kashmir?
Nadru, a type of lake vegetable with a porous and fibrous texture, was once a common ingredient in Kashmiri cuisine.
Over time, it became an irreplaceable component of traditional Kashmiri cooking.
Whether it was a regular household meal or a special occasion, Nadru’s earthy and fibrous texture made it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen.
Despite its relatively humble origins, Nadru quickly became a favourite among the locals, who appreciated its unique taste and nutritional benefits.
With its ability to absorb the flavours of other ingredients, Nadru was a natural fit for various dishes, from stews and curries to snacks and appetizers.
Final Thoughts
Dubai’s culinary scene is known for its diversity and rich flavours, and Kashmiri cuisine is no exception.
With several restaurants offering authentic Kashmiri dishes, residents and visitors can experience this rich cultural heritage’s unique flavours and aromas.
Whether you are a fan of spicy curries or succulent meats, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the cuisine of the Kashmir Valley.
The restaurants highlighted here offer a range of options for those looking to try the best Kashmiri food in Dubai, from casual dining to fine dining experiences.
So, if you are in Dubai and looking for a unique dining experience, try one of these authentic Kashmiri restaurants and savour the rich and flavorful dishes they offer.
