Lucknow is the cultural heart of Uttar Pradesh and the city where culinary traditions are as deep as its historical roots. Also known as the land of Awadhi cuisine, Lucknow offers a wide range of mouth-watering flavours and food that reflects its Nawabi Legacy. From succulent Kebabs to indulgent sweet treats, every corner of the city invites food lovers on a journey. In this blog, we’ll explore 14 must-try delicacies of Lucknow that every food lover will love.
Here is a list of famous food in Lucknow
- Tunday Kebab
- Basket Chaat
- Kulfi Faluda
- Kakori Kebab
- Lakhnavi Special Bhuna Gosht
- Shami Kebab
- Galawati Kebab
- Lakhnavi Special Chicken Noorani Kebab
- Awadhi Biryani
- Makhan Malai
- Sheer Korma
- Lakhnavi Special Tangi Naushijaan
- Nihari And Kulcha
- Sheermal
1. Tunday Kebab
Lucknow’s one of the most legendary dishes, Tunday Kebab, is famous for its melt-in-the-mouth texture and rich, aromatic spices. The story behind the delicacy is that a century ago, a one-armed chef named Haji Murad Ali made the dish for a toothless customer, who was called Tunday. This Kebab is traditionally made from finely minced meat and involves over 100 spices. These Kebabs are slow-cooked to achieve their signature softness, making them a favourite among locals and travellers alike. It is best complemented with naan or roomali roti. Tunday Kebab is more than just food, it’s a taste of Lucknow’s culinary history and a must-try for anyone visiting the city.
2. Basket Chaat
Basket Chaat, or Tokri Chaatl, which can be found on every corner of Lucknow is a beloved street food in Lucknow that combines crispiness, spiciness, and a hint of sweetness in every bite. This unique chaat consists of an edible “basket” made from finely grated and fried potatoes, which provides a crunchy base. Filled with boiled potatoes, chana dal, cool yogurt, and a variety of tangy and sweet chutney. The chaat is then garnished with pomegranate seeds, spices, and herbs. Every bite of the Basket Chaat brings out a burst of flavours and textures, making it a favourite among locals and is a must-try for any visitor.
3. Kulfi Faluda
What’s better than Lucknow’s Kulfi Faluda if you have a sweet tooth? This refreshing dessert is perfect for summer days or when you want to satisfy your sweet cravings. This traditional treat consists of creamy kulfi, often covered with pistachios and almonds, and served with chilled vermicelli topped with a drizzle of rose syrup.
4. Kakori Kebab
Kakori Kebab is an iconic delicacy from Lucknow that stands as a testament to the city’s rich culinary history. This delicacy hails from the small town of Kakori on the outskirts of Lucknow and was crafted for royalty, with a recipe designed to be incredibly soft and flavorful. Made from finely minced lamb blended with spices, and a hint of saffron. Kakori Kebabs are known for their almost buttery, delicate texture and smoky flavour which is achieved through great attention and skillful cooking. Traditionally grilled over charcoal, these kebabs are served with parathas and mint chutney offering a truly luxurious taste experience.
5. Lakhnavi Special Bhuna Gosht
Lakhnavi Special Bhuna Gosht is a delectable meat dish that is a speciality of Lakhnavi Swaad Restaurant. It is heavily inspired by Awadhi cuisine and embodies its rich flavours. The dish features succulent pieces of mutton slow-cooked to perfection. Prepared with a blend of roasted spices, onions, and tomatoes, Bhuna Gosht stands out for its deep, smoky flavour and luscious texture. Unlike traditional dishes, it has minimal gravy focusing instead on the bold concentrated flavours achieved through the roasting. Lakhnavi Special Bhuna Gosht is a true indulgence to taste an Awadhi-inspired dish.
6. Shami Kebab
Shami Kebab is a beloved speciality in Lucknow’s rich culinary collection and is known for its smooth texture and varieties of spiced flavour. It is usually prepared from minced mutton or lamb meat, blended with chana dal and a mix of fragrant spices. These kebabs undergo a unique boiling process before being shaped into patties. The kebabs are then lightly pan-fried, creating a crispy, golden crust with a soft, flavorful interior. It is often served with mint chutney and sliced onions, Shami Kebab is a must-try for anyone wanting to experience the authentic, savoury delights of Lucknowi Cuisine.
7. Galouti Kebab
A signature dish of Lucknow, famous for its ultra-tender, melt-in-the-mouth texture. The origin of this kebab takes us back to 17th century when it was created for an ageing Nawab who desired a kebab that didn’t require chewing, this delicacy is made from minced meat and an exquisite blend of over 150 spices, including aromatic cardamom and clove. The meat is finely ground and marinated, then cooked over a charcoal fire giving it a smoky flavor and achieving its unique softness. It is often paired with soft parathas or roomali rotis, Galouti Kebab is an unforgettable culinary experience offering a taste of Lucknow’s royal heritage in every bite.
8. Lakhnavi Special Chicken Noorani Kebab
This is a delightful dish that exemplifies the elegance of Lucknow’s culinary artistry. These special kebabs are crafted from tender chicken pieces marinated with yoghurt, cream, and a handful of aromatic spices. These pieces are then wrapped around mix stuffing and grilled using the slow cooking process ensuring a juicy texture. Lakhnavi Special Chicken Noorani Kebab is often served with mint chutney and a side of fresh salad, offering a taste of Lucknow’s Nawabi sophistication.
9. Awadhi Biryani
This famous dish originated in Lucknow, basmati rice layered with marinated meat and spices. Unlike other biryanis, Awadhi Biryani is known for its subtle flavours and delicate cooking technique, where marinated meat and partially cooked rice are slow-cooked together in the “dum” style to infuse the rich aroma and spices. To enhance the biryani’s aroma, saffron, cardamom, and star anise are used. Served with a side of raita or salan, it’s a meal fit for royalty. For those looking to recreate this classic dish at home, here’s a detailed Awadhi Biryani Recipe that captures the authentic flavours of this timeless dish.
10. Makhan Malai
Makhan Malai, also known as “Nimish” in Lucknow, is a unique winter delicacy for some with a sweet tooth. This creamy, frothy delicacy, embodies the city’s flair for soft, cloud-like textures and delicate flavours. Made from churned milk cream or malai, this fluffy dessert is traditionally prepared in the early morning to achieve its signature fluffiness. Flavoured with cardamom, saffron, and topped with a sprinkle of pistachios and silver leaf, Makhan Malai melts in the mouth, offering a hint of sweetness with a light, creamy finish. It is a favourite during winter festivals and is a must-try dessert for anyone exploring Lucknow’s sweeter side.
11. Sheer Korma
A traditional Mughlai dessert that holds a special place in Lucknow’s culinary heritage, especially during festive occasions like Eid. Made from vermicelli cooked in sweetened milk, this creamy treat is enriched with dates, almonds, pistachios, and a hint of cardamom giving it an aromatic flavour. Saffron is added to the golden hue and warmth, while a dash of rose or kewra water enhances its fragrance. The vermicelli is slow-cooked on a low heat allowing it to absorb the flavors of the spices and dry fruits. Sheer Korma is often served in earthenware dishes adding to its authenticity and traditional appeal.
12. Lakhnavi Special Tangdi Naushijaan
Lakhnavi Special Tangdi Naushijaan is a lesser-known gem from the royal kitchens of Lucknow, offering a unique blend of tangy and spicy flavours. This dish features succulent pieces of chicken or mutton marinated in a mix of yoghurt, tamarind, and spices like red chilli, coriander and cumin. The meat is then slow-cooked to absorb the tangy flavours and the spices. It is typically served with soft naans or parathas, Tangi Naushijaan is a must-try for those seeking flavourful experience that reflects the Lucknow’s culinary heritage.
13. Nihari and Kulcha
Nihari is a rich, aromatic slow-cooked meat stew traditionally made from tender cuts of lamb simmered overnight with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise. This slow process results in a deeply flavoured, melt-in-the-mouth dish that is hearty and comforting. Paired with Kulcha, a soft, leavened flatbread that soaks up the gravy, it serves as an ideal companion to scoop up the stew.
14. Sheermal
Sheermal is a saffron-flavoured sweet bread staple in Lucknow’s Awadhi cuisine. It is often served with rich curries and kebabs, traditionally prepared in a tandoor or on a griddle. Sheermal is made by kneading flour with milk, sugar, and a hint of ghee, which gives it a soft, slightly flaky texture. The dough is delicately flavoured with saffron, giving the bread its signature golden hue and gentle aroma.
Final Thought
In conclusion, Lucknow is truly heaven for food lovers, offering a delightful variety of flavours and dishes. From iconic street foods to royal delicacies, the city’s culinary landscape is as diverse as it is flavorful. So, when you find yourself in Lucknow, make sure to savour these must-try dishes and embark on a journey of unforgettable journey of food culture.
FAQs
1. What is Lucknowi Cuisine?
Lucknowi cuisine, also known as Awadhi cuisine, is a rich and diverse culinary tradition from the city of Nawabs, Lucknow. The cooking techniques and flavorful dishes reflect the city’s historical connections to Mughal royalty. The cuisine includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes prepared with exotic spices, herbs, and dry fruits.
2. What is the name of Biryani in Lucknow?
Lucknowi Biryani, also known as Awadhi Biryani, is distinctive due to its unique cooking method dum pukht. Saffron, star anise, and cinnamon are used to flavour the rice, which is partially cooked separately and then slow-cooked with marinated meat together.
3. Where can I enjoy Awadhi cuisine?
You can enjoy most of the Awadhi cuisine at Lakhnavi Swaad. A family restaurant in Jankipuram Extension, Lucknow.
