Lucknow, the city of Nawabs, is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and, most notably, its delectable cuisine. The city’s culinary offerings are a reflection of its royal past, where the kitchens of the Nawabs created dishes that have become legendary across India. From melt-in-the-mouth kebabs to fragrant biryanis and tangy chaats, Lucknow’s food scene is a treasure trove for food lovers. Here’s a guide to the best local dishes you must try when visiting Lucknow.
1. Galouti Kebabs
One of the most famous dishes to come out of Lucknow, Galouti Kebabs are a must-try for anyone visiting the city. Originally created for a Nawab who had lost his teeth, these kebabs are so tender that they practically melt in your mouth.
- What to Expect: Made from finely minced meat, usually lamb or beef, mixed with a blend of over 150 spices, these kebabs are cooked on a griddle until they develop a crispy exterior while remaining incredibly soft inside. They are often served with a side of mint chutney and thinly sliced onions.
- Where to Try: Tunday Kababi in Aminabad is the go-to place for the best Galouti Kebabs in Lucknow. This iconic eatery has been serving these kebabs for over a century using a secret family recipe.
2. Lucknowi Biryani
No visit to Lucknow is complete without tasting its famous Lucknowi Biryani. This dish is a royal legacy of the city, known for its delicate flavors and aromatic spices.
- What to Expect: Unlike the spicier versions found in other parts of India, Lucknowi Biryani is subtle and fragrant. It is made by layering basmati rice with marinated meat (usually lamb or chicken), caramelized onions, and a blend of spices like saffron, cardamom, and cloves. The dish is cooked in a sealed pot using the dum pukht method, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Where to Try: Idris Biryani in Chowk is a legendary spot for authentic Lucknowi Biryani. The simplicity of the place contrasts with the complexity of the flavors in every bite of their biryani.
3. Kakori Kebabs
Named after the town of Kakori near Lucknow, Kakori Kebabs are another iconic dish that showcases the city’s love for finely crafted meat dishes.
- What to Expect: These kebabs are made from finely minced meat, mixed with a blend of spices and raw papaya (which acts as a tenderizer), and skewered before being grilled over a charcoal fire. The result is a kebab that is incredibly soft and bursting with flavor.
- Where to Try: Dastarkhwan and Naushijaan are popular places in Lucknow where you can enjoy authentic Kakori Kebabs, served with a side of paratha or roomali roti.
4. Sheermal
Sheermal is a saffron-flavored, slightly sweet flatbread that is an essential part of Lucknow’s culinary tradition. It is often served as an accompaniment to kebabs and curries but can also be enjoyed on its own.
- What to Expect: Sheermal is made from refined flour, milk, sugar, and ghee, kneaded into a soft dough, and baked in a tandoor. The addition of saffron gives it a beautiful golden hue and a delicate aroma that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of Lucknowi dishes.
- Where to Try: Sheermal can be found at many traditional bakeries and eateries in Lucknow, but Rahim’s Sheermal in Chowk is particularly famous for its soft, fragrant version.
5. Nihari
Nihari is a rich, slow-cooked stew traditionally served as a breakfast dish in Lucknow. It is a dish that truly embodies the city’s royal culinary heritage.
- What to Expect: Nihari is made with tender cuts of meat, typically beef or lamb, simmered overnight in a broth of spices, ginger, and garlic. The dish is thickened with flour and garnished with fresh coriander, ginger, and green chilies. It is usually served with naan or kulcha, which is perfect for soaking up the flavorful gravy.
- Where to Try: Rahim’s Nihari in Chowk is a legendary spot where you can enjoy this hearty dish, often accompanied by their famous kulchas.
6. Aloo Tikki Chaat
Lucknow is also known for its vibrant street food, and Aloo Tikki Chaat is one of the most popular options. This dish combines the crispiness of fried potato patties with the tangy flavors of chutneys and yogurt.
- What to Expect: Aloo Tikki is made from boiled potatoes mixed with spices, shaped into patties, and fried until golden brown. The patties are then topped with tamarind chutney, green chutney, yogurt, and a sprinkling of chaat masala, creating a burst of flavors and textures in every bite.
- Where to Try: Royal Café in Hazratganj is famous for its variety of chaats, including their delicious Aloo Tikki Chaat.
7. Kulfi
For dessert, Kulfi is a must-try when in Lucknow. This traditional Indian ice cream is denser and creamier than regular ice cream, making it a perfect sweet treat to end your meal.
- What to Expect: Kulfi is made by slowly simmering milk with sugar, saffron, and cardamom until it thickens. It is then poured into molds and frozen until set. The result is a rich, creamy dessert that is often garnished with chopped nuts and served on a stick.
- Where to Try: Prakash Kulfi in Aminabad is a popular spot where locals and visitors alike flock to enjoy this creamy delicacy.
8. Basket Chaat
Another unique and popular street food from Lucknow is the Basket Chaat, also known as Tokri Chaat. This dish is as much about the presentation as it is about the flavors.
- What to Expect: The chaat is served in an edible basket made from grated potatoes that are fried to a crisp. The basket is then filled with a mixture of boiled chickpeas, yogurt, chutneys, and spices. The combination of the crunchy basket and the tangy, spicy filling makes this chaat an irresistible snack.
- Where to Try: Royal Café in Hazratganj is renowned for its Basket Chaat, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors that make it a standout dish.
9. Makhan Malai
Makhan Malai is a light and airy winter dessert that is unique to Lucknow. It’s a delicacy that melts in your mouth, leaving a subtle sweetness that lingers.
- What to Expect: Makhan Malai is made by churning milk and cream, which is then left to ferment overnight in the winter chill. The result is a frothy, creamy dessert that is flavored with saffron, cardamom, and topped with pistachios and rose petals. It is traditionally served in earthen pots, enhancing its rustic charm.
- Where to Try: In the winter months, you’ll find vendors selling Makhan Malai in the old parts of Lucknow, particularly around Chowk and Hazratganj.
10. Paya
Paya, a rich and flavorful stew made from lamb trotters, is a dish that reflects the depth of Lucknow’s culinary tradition. It’s a dish that’s packed with nutrients and flavor, often enjoyed as a hearty meal.
- What to Expect: The trotters are slow-cooked in a broth of onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices until the meat is tender and the broth is rich and gelatinous. The dish is usually served with naan or kulcha, which is perfect for mopping up the thick, flavorful broth.
- Where to Try: Many traditional eateries in Lucknow serve Paya, but Rahim’s in Chowk is particularly known for its flavorful version of this dish.
Conclusion
Lucknow’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich history and cultural diversity. From the royal kitchens of the Nawabs to the bustling streets of the old city, the food of Lucknow offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a fan of rich, meaty dishes like kebabs and biryanis or have a sweet tooth for delicacies like kulfi and makhan malai, Lucknow has something to satisfy every palate. So, when you find yourself in this gastronomic city, be sure to indulge in these local dishes that capture the essence of Lucknow’s culinary heritage.