Pakistan is a country with a diverse and rich culture, and this is reflected in its cuisine as well. From aromatic biryanis and spicy kebabs to sweet desserts, Pakistani food is a blend of various flavors and ingredients. Here are the top 8 popular food items in Pakistan that you must try:
Biryani.
Biryani is a popular dish in Pakistan that is made with rice and various meats, vegetables, and spices. It is often served at special occasions such as weddings and festivals. The origins of biryani can be traced back to the Mughal Empire in India, where it was a favorite dish of the royalty. In Pakistan, biryani is made with basmati rice and a variety of meats such as chicken, lamb, or beef. It is cooked with a variety of spices, such as cardamom, cloves, and cumin, and is often served with a side of raita, a yogurt-based sauce.
Chicken Tikka Masala.
Chicken tikka masala is a dish that is made with chunks of chicken that are marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices, and then grilled. The grilled chicken is then cooked in a sauce made with tomatoes, onions, and spices. This dish is often served with rice or naan bread. Chicken tikka masala is a popular choice in Pakistani restaurants and is often served as a main course.
Karahi.
Karahi is a traditional Pakistani dish that is made with meat, vegetables, and spices. It is named after the pot in which it is cooked, the karahi. The meat is usually chicken, lamb, or beef, and it is cooked with a variety of vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Karahi is a spicy dish that is often served with rice or naan bread.
Kebabs.
Kebabs are a popular food in Pakistan that are made with a variety of meats, such as chicken, lamb, or beef, that are marinated in spices and then grilled. Kebabs can be served as a main course or as an appetizer. They are often served with a side of rice or naan bread and a variety of sauces and chutneys.
Haleem.
Haleem is a traditional Pakistani dish that is made with a combination of meat, lentils, and spices. It is a slow-cooked dish that is often served during the month of Ramadan, when Muslims fast during the day and eat only at night. Haleem is a hearty and filling dish that is often served with a side of rice or naan bread.
Boti Kebab.
Boti kebab is a dish that is made with chunks of meat that are marinated in a mixture of spices and then grilled. It is often served as an appetizer or as a main course with a side of rice or naan bread. Boti kebab is a popular choice in Pakistani restaurants and is often served with a variety of sauces and chutneys.
Nihari.
Nihari is a traditional Pakistani dish that is made with slow-cooked meat, such as beef or lamb, and a variety of spices. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is often served for breakfast or as a main course. Nihari is often served with a side of rice or naan bread and a variety of condiments such as chutneys and pickles.
Saag.
Saag is a dish that is made with a variety of leafy greens, such as spinach or mustard greens, and a variety of spices. It is a popular choice in Pakistani cuisine and is often served as a side dish with a main course of meat or poultry. Saag is a healthy and flavorful dish that is often served with rice or naan bread.
Overall, Pakistani cuisine is a blend of various flavors and ingredients, and these top 8 popular food items are just a few of the many delicious dishes that you can find in the country. If you ever have the chance to visit Pakistan, be sure to try out some of these delicious dishes.