Pakistani cuisine

Overview of Pakistani cuisine

Pakistani cuisine is a rich and diverse culinary tradition that reflects the country's cultural and ethnic diversity. It is characterized by a blend of various regional cooking traditions of South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East. The cuisine varies greatly from region to region, reflecting the country's ethnic and cultural diversity.

Regional Cuisines

Punjab

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Chicken Karahi, a popular dish in Punjab

The cuisine of Punjab is known for its rich, buttery flavors along with extensive vegetarian and meat dishes. Commonly used ingredients include ghee, butter, and cream. Popular dishes include chicken karahi, saag, and naan.

Sindh

Biryani, a staple in Sindhi cuisine

Sindhi cuisine is known for its spicy and aromatic flavors. Biryani, a rice dish made with spices, rice, and meat, is a staple in Sindhi households. Other popular dishes include sindhi curry, sai bhaji, and koki.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

The cuisine of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is influenced by Afghan cuisine and is known for its use of lamb and beef. Dishes such as chapli kebab, peshawari naan, and kabuli pulao are popular in this region.

Balochistan

Balochi cuisine is known for its simplicity and reliance on meat, particularly lamb and goat. Sajji, a dish consisting of whole lamb marinated and roasted, is a traditional Balochi dish.

Common Ingredients

Pakistani cuisine uses a variety of spices and herbs, including cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and garam masala. Rice and wheat are staple foods, with biryani and naan being popular across the country.

Popular Dishes

Nihari

Nihari is a slow-cooked stew consisting of meat, mainly beef or lamb, along with bone marrow. It is a popular breakfast dish in Pakistan, especially in Lahore and Karachi.

Haleem

Haleem is a thick stew made with meat, lentils, and wheat. It is a popular dish during the month of Ramadan and is often served at religious festivals.

Kebabs

Various types of kebabs are popular in Pakistan, including seekh kebab, shami kebab, and chapli kebab. These are often served with naan or paratha.

Beverages

Popular beverages in Pakistan include lassi, a yogurt-based drink, and chai, a spiced tea. Rooh Afza, a rose-flavored syrup, is also commonly used to make refreshing drinks.

Desserts

Gulab Jamun, a popular dessert

Pakistani desserts include gulab jamun, jalebi, kheer, and halwa. These sweets are often served at weddings and festive occasions.

Related Pages

• Indian cuisine
• Afghan cuisine
• Middle Eastern cuisine