One thing the northern region of Pakistan is known for is its breathtaking mountain scenery. But this is not the only thing that this glorious region has to offer. This area of Pakistan also provides some of the most delicious food, leaving your mouth watering for a long time. We are here to tell you all about the traditional foods of Northern Pakistan that every traveller should try, which are truly a dream come true for the foodies.
The Northern Region of Pakistan is home to snow-capped mountains, turquoise rivers, and ancient cultures, attracting thousands of tourists each year. Not many people know that this land is also an incredible land of delicious flavours. Therefore, it is a haven for foodies. If you are a UK traveller who loves to explore various culinary scenes of different areas, it is time that you start searching for a flight to Pakistan.The culinary traditions of northern Pakistan are sure to impress, shaped by harsh climates, local ingredients, and centuries-old traditions. Let’s talk about some of the traditional foods of Northern Pakistan that every traveller should try.
Must-Try Traditional Foods of Northern Pakistan
Some of the must-try traditional foods of Northern Pakistan are listed below.
Chapshuro
Let’s start with Chapshuro, the delicious mountain pizza of Hunza. This thin dough, stuffed with minced beef or yak meat, onions, tomatoes, green chillies, and local spices, is a treat for the taste buds. People usually call it the mountain pizza. Chapshuro is the perfect hearty meal after you have trekked around the glorious mountains of Hunza in the cold atmosphere. You can try this dish out in the Hunza Valley, Gilgit Town, and at the local roadside cafes.
Mamtu
Mamtu are traditional dumplings that you will get a chance to treat yourself to at the Silk Route. Because of the historic Silk Road connections, these dumplings have influences from Central Asian and Chinese cuisines. Therefore, you get an authentic taste that you might not get anywhere else in the country. Filled with minced meat and onions and served with vinegar and chilli sauce, these little pockets of goodness are an absolute treat. These soft, juicy and warm steamed dumplings are a perfect meal in the cold weather of Hunza, Skardu, and Gilgit.
Daudo
In Skardu and Hunza Villages, you can enjoy a nourishing local soup that will leave your taste buds wanting more. This thick noodle soup is perfect for warming up on chilly winter days. Daudo features hand-cut wheat noodles, meat broth, and local herbs. It is not only warm but also nutritious, making it a perfect meal in the mountains to fuel you for more adventures.
Harissa
Many people know Harissa as a Middle Eastern dish. However, there is also a version of Harissa in northern Pakistan that differs from the Middle Eastern version. This version is slow-cooked for hours using wheat, meat, butter, and minimal spices. Locals usually eat it on a cold morning. Harissa is also a rich meal that will keep you full for a long time. Make sure to treat yourself to delicious Harissa when you visit Skardu, especially in winter.
Phitti
This is the everyday bread of Gilgit Baltistan. Phitti is a thick traditional flatbread baked on a hot stone or a metal surface. This delicious, warm bread is usually served with honey, butter, and local cheese. It reflects the local lifestyle of the locals who spend their lives in the mountains. You can find Phitti at home and at local bakeries in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Diram Phitti
Diram Phitti is a sweet twist on the traditional flatbread of Gilgit Baltistan. It is made with wheat flour, apricot oil, and sugar or jaggery. This local dessert is widely enjoyed by the locals and tourists alike. People of Hunza Valley satisfy their sweet tooth with this delicious sweet version of the flatbread.
Giyaling
Giyalings are the pancakes of the North. These fluffy pancakes are made with wheat flour and butter and are usually served with honey or apricot jam. You will love treating yourself to these light, sweet pancakes. So, if you plan to visit Hunza and Nagar Valleys, you must treat yourself to these delicious sweet treats.
Tumuro Tea
This is a traditional herbal drink found in Hunza and the surrounding areas. Tumuro Tea is unlike anyother herbal tea. It is made with local spices, including Sichuan pepper (tumuro), salt, butter, and milk. This tea is not just a treat for the taste buds; it also aids digestion and helps keep you warm at high altitudes.
Khurba
Khurba is a hearty local stew found in the remote villages of Gilgit-Baltistan. The stew is slow-cooked, made up of dough pieces with meat and vegetables in a thick broth. It is ideal for keeping warm in the harsh winters of Pakistan’s northern region. You will also feel full after having this delicious stew.
Summing Up
The Northern region of Pakistan offers not only breathtaking scenery but also delicious flavours and hearty meals that keep you full and warm for a long time. Try to eat at places where locals dine for the most authentic experience. The northern cuisine of Pakistan uses minimal spices and features fresh, natural ingredients, making it popular with tourists.