Kashmiri Cuisine: The Wazwan Feast

Kashmiri cuisine is among India's most distinctive - a meat-centric, saffron-laced tradition rooted in the valley's Persian and Central Asian heritage.

What is Wazwan?

Wazwan is the grand ceremonial feast of Kashmir - a 36-course meal traditionally served at weddings, prepared overnight by a waza (master chef). Diners sit around a large trammi (platter) and eat with their hands.

Must-Try Dishes

Meat

• Rogan Josh - lamb in a fiery red gravy (Kashmir's signature dish)
• Gushtaba - meatballs in a creamy yogurt gravy
• Rista - meatballs in red saffron gravy
• Tabak Maaz - fried lamb ribs
• Daniwal Korma - lamb with coriander

Vegetarian

• Dum Aloo - baby potatoes in spiced yogurt gravy
• Chaman - paneer in creamy tomato gravy
• Haakh - collard greens

Breads & Rice

• Kahwa - saffron green tea
• Sheer Chai - pink salt tea
• Lahsoi / Girda - local breads
• Mutton Pulao - fragrant basmati

Where to Try

In Srinagar, Ahdoos and Mughal Darbar are legendary for authentic Wazwan. For street food, try Lal Chowk's shawarma stalls and Kathi Kebab at Maisuma.

Wazwan is more than food - it's a ritual of Kashmiri hospitality.