Must-try Dishes
Khichdi - Comforting Rice and Lentils - A creamy blend of rice and lentils cooked with spices and veggies, often topped with ghee. Locals enjoy it for breakfast or a light lunch, especially during rainy days when they crave warmth.
Mirchi Ka Salan - Spicy Chili Curry - Long green chilies simmered in a tangy peanut-based gravy, offering a delightful heat. You'll often find this dish accompanying biryani at family gatherings, where it adds an extra kick to the meal.
Hyderabadi Biryani - Aromatic Rice and Meat - Marinated meat layered with fragrant basmati rice, skillfully cooked together in a sealed pot to lock in flavors. People typically indulge in this during festive occasions, and you can feel the excitement in the air as families gather.
Paya - Trotter Soup - A rich and flavorful soup made from slow-cooked goat trotters and spices, often served with naan or rice. It's a popular breakfast item, commonly enjoyed in the early hours at roadside eateries, where the aroma of spices welcomes you.
Bread Omelette - Eggy Bread Delight - A sunny-side-up egg nestled between two slices of bread, seasoned with onions, green chilies, and spices, then toasted to crispy perfection. Street vendors whip this up quickly; it's a go-to for a filling morning meal, typically starting around 6 AM.
Kebabs - Grilled Skewered Meats - Juicy meat marinated in vibrant spices and grilled on skewers, resulting in a smoky flavor. People typically savor these as an evening snack, often topped with mint chutney, while bonding with friends over chai.
Roti with Dill - Shepu Bhaji - Soft flatbreads served with a nutritious stir-fry of fresh dill and lentils, creating a unique savory combo. It's often a lunch item during the winter months when dill is in season, giving nourishing warmth on cool days.
Besan Chilla - Savory Chickpea Pancake - A flexible pancake made from chickpea flour with veggies and spices, cooked flat and crispy. Local eateries often serve this as a light meal in the afternoon, and it's delightful paired with green chutney.
Desserts & Drinks
Irani Chai - ایرانی چائے (milky tea) - A rich blend of black tea, milk, and cardamom, often slow-brewed to develop a unique flavor. It’s a go-to drink for friends chatting in cafes, especially during the leisurely afternoon hours.
Fresh Lime Soda - नींबू सोडा (zesty soda) - Combines fresh lime juice, soda water, and a hint of sugar, served ice-cold for a refreshing kick. It’s particularly enjoyed during the sweltering summer months, perfect after strolling through local markets.
Beer - बियर (local varieties) - Crafted from malt and hops, you can find both mainstream and local microbrews at various establishments. Served chilled, it's a popular choice for unwinding with friends after a long workday or on weekends.
Patties - पत्ती (flaky pastry) - Savory treats filled with spicy potatoes and peas, encased in a crisp, buttery crust. These are usually enjoyed as snacks over tea, making for a delightful evening bite, especially during the rainy season.
Khubani ka Meetha - खुबानी का मीठा (apricot dessert) - A luscious dish made from dried apricots cooked in syrup, topped with fresh cream or custard. Served during festive occasions, this dessert showcases the region’s love for sweet and tangy flavors.
By the way, locals often pick their desserts based on the season—Khubani ka Meetha is especially popular during festivals!