Shimla, the picturesque hill station located in the lap of the Himalayas, is not only popular for its scenic location and colonial architecture but also for famous food in Shimla. With a blend of traditional Himachali dishes and influences from various other culinary traditions, the hill station of Shimla presents a delightful combination of various dishes to its visitors. So get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey through the flavors and aromas of Shimla’s exceptional dishes.
List of 8 Famous Food of Shimla
In this blog, we will embark on a culinary journey through Shimla, exploring Shimla famous food and the unique flavors they offer. So, check out these dishes that will tantalize your taste buds!
1. Sidu
Sidu is a traditional Himachali dish known as the staple food of Shimla. Sidu is a steamed bread made from wheat flour and stuffed with a mixture of crushed black lentils, spices, and ghee (clarified butter). It is typically served with ghee or desi (local) ghee and is a favorite breakfast option among the locals.
The combination of the flavorful stuffing and the pillowy bread makes Sidu a beloved delicacy that showcases the craftsmanship of Himachali cuisine.
2. Madra
Next on our list is Madra, Shimla famous food that reflects the rich cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh. Made with soaked and boiled chickpeas or kabuli chana, yogurt, and a blend of aromatic spices, Madra is a creamy and flavorsome curry. It is often served with rice or roti and is a must-try for anyone visiting Shimla.
3. Chha Gosht
If you’re a non vegetarian, Chha Gosht is a dish that must not be missed. This Himachali delicacy features marinated lamb cooked using a combination of spices, yogurt, and ghee. This dish has a slow cooking process so that meat becomes tender and flavorful, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that will leave you craving for more.
4. Tudkiya Bhath
Tudkiya Bhath is a traditional Himachal Pradesh rice dish made using the combination of aromatic spices with the goodness of rice and lentils. The dish is cooked with local vegetables, such as potatoes, peas, and carrots, along with a generous amount of ghee and spices. The result is a hearty and satisfying one-pot meal that offers a burst of flavors with every bite.
The dish is made more tempting with the addition of ghee, a medley of aromatic spices, and sometimes lentils, giving it a distinct and delightful taste. The rice absorbs the flavors of the spices and vegetables, creating a wholesome and satisfying one-pot meal.
You can also enjoy this dish with a side of raita (yogurt-based dip) or pickle, adding an extra layer of tanginess and complexity to the dish.
5. Babru
Babru is a popular deep-fried snack in Shimla, perfect for those looking for a quick and tasty treat and famous food in Shimla. Made with a wheat flour dough stuffed with a mixture of soaked and ground black lentils, spices, and herbs, Babru is fried until golden brown. It is often served with tamarind chutney or mint chutney, adding a tangy and refreshing element to its savory taste.
Mostly, Babru is served with tangy tamarind chutney or with refreshing mint chutney, adding a burst of flavors to every bite. You can enjoy this snack as a quick street food snack or as part of a meal.
6. Aktori
Aktori is a unique Himachali pancake and Shimla special food that will delight your taste buds with its distinctive flavors. The dish is prepared by grating potatoes and is mixed with wheat flour, spices, and ghee to form a batter. This batter is then spread on a hot griddle and cooked until crispy. The locals enjoy this dish with a side of chutney or yogurt, making it a delightful snack or breakfast option.
7. Sepu Vadi
Sepu Vadi is a traditional dish from Shimla that showcases the diverse flavors of the region. It consists of lentil dumplings, made with ground lentils, spinach, and spices, which are then cooked in a tangy curry. The combination of soft dumplings and flavorful curry creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will leave you craving for seconds.
Served with a side of yogurt or chutney, Aktori provides a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
8. Gucchi Pulao
Last but not least, Gucchi Pulao is a delicacy that showcases the abundance of flavors in Shimla. Gucchi refers to morel mushrooms, which are known for their earthy and nutty flavor. The mushrooms are cooked with fragrant basmati rice, aromatic spices, and ghee, resulting in a luxurious and aromatic dish that is often enjoyed on special occasions.
Conclusion
Shimla, with its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage, offers not only a visual treat but also a gastronomic extravaganza. From the traditional famous food in Shimla like Sidu and Madra to the mouthwatering delights like Chha Gosht and Tudkiya Bhath, the culinary landscape of Shimla is diverse and captivating.
Exploring the local cuisine is an essential part of experiencing the true essence of this charming hill station. So, when you visit Shimla, be sure to embark on a culinary adventure and savor the flavors that make this destination a food lover’s paradise by tasting Shimla special food. To have memorable vacations, get a customized plan from Honeymoon Bug.
FAQs Famous Dishes of Shimla
What are some famous foods in Shimla
Shimla offers different kinds of dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include Sidu, Madra, Chha Gosht, Tudkiya Bhath, etc. that are quite popular among the locals and tourists as well.
Where can I eat Shimla's famous food?
You can find famous food of Shimla in various restaurants, street food stalls, and local eateries throughout Shimla. Some of the popular places to enjoy food of Shimla include Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar, and Lower Bazaar, where you’ll find a wide range of dining options catering to different tastes and budgets.
Is Shimla special food spicy?
The levels of spiciness in these famous dishes differ from one another. Himachali cuisine tends to be moderately spiced, allowing the flavors of the ingredients to shine through. However, you can always ask to adjust the level of spice according to your preference when dining at local eateries.
Name some famous desserts or sweets in Shimla?
Though the hill station of Shimla is more known for its savory delights, you can indulge in some sweet treats as well. Gulab Jamun, Jalebi, and Mittha (sweetened rice) are some of the popular desserts you can try in Shimla, either at local sweet shops or as part of a traditional Himachali thali.
Can I get shimla famous food anytime during my visit?
Yes, most of these famous dishes are available year-round in Shimla. However, it’s always a good idea to check with local restaurants.
