Top 5 Foods and Drinks You Didn’t Know Were From Pakistan
If you think that Pakistani cuisine consists only of curries and spices, think again! The country has much more to offer when it comes to its Pakistani foods and drinks. From drinks like Rooh Afza to classic dishes like Biryani, Pakistan is a culinary powerhouse. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 5 foods and drinks you didn’t know were from Pakistan. We’ll explore the history, flavours, and cooking techniques behind these classic dishes, as well as a few surprises along the way. So let’s get started!
1) Chai (Pakistani Foods and Drinks)
Pakistan is a country full of flavor and culture, with some of the most interesting and unique culinary delights found nowhere else. One of the most famous drinks of the country is Chai, a sweet and milky beverage with spices that can be enjoyed hot or cold. This drink has been around for centuries, and each family has their own special blend.
Chai is a delicious and invigorating drink, made from a combination of tea leaves, milk, sugar, cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and other spices. This is boiled in a pot to create a thick and aromatic mixture that is usually served in small clay cups. Chai is not only enjoyed by locals as a tasty refreshment, but also shared during social occasions. It’s often used to welcome guests and celebrate special moments.
In Pakistan, chai is available in many flavors. It is common to find it flavored with cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, rose petals, nutmeg, saffron, cloves, black pepper and even almond. Some like it more sugary, while others prefer it more spicy. Whatever the flavor you choose, it’s sure to be a delight!
2) Chicken Roast
One of the most beloved dishes from Pakistan is Chicken Roast. This dish has all the flavors of the country: spices, a hint of sweetness, and plenty of juicy chicken. It’s simple to make, and perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
To make the perfect Chicken Roast, you need to marinate the chicken overnight with a variety of spices and herbs, such as coriander, cumin, cardamom, and garam masala. Once it has been marinated, the chicken is then slow cooked in an oven or on a stovetop until
it is tender and full of flavor. Finally, you can garnish it with fresh herbs and serve with chutney or naan bread.
Chicken Roast is one of the most popular dishes in Pakistan and can be found in restaurants throughout the country.
3) Chicken Tikka (Pakistani Foods and Drinks)
Chicken Tikka is a staple dish in Pakistani cuisine. It’s a delicious mix of grilled chicken cubes marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices. This dish is commonly served with naan, chapatti, or steamed rice. The marinade for chicken tikka often includes ginger, garlic, garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric, and cumin. The chicken is usually cooked on a charcoal fire or in a tandoor oven. The flavor of the marinade combined with the smoky taste from the charcoal grill makes this dish irresistible! The meat is usually served with onions, chutney, and lime wedges for added flavor. Chicken Tikka is a favorite of many Pakistanis and can be found in restaurants all over the country.
4) Biryani
When it comes to Pakistani food, biryani is one of the most popular and beloved dishes. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, biryani is a rice-based dish that is usually cooked with aromatic spices and herbs, along with either chicken, mutton, beef, fish or vegetables. The ingredients are then layered in a pot, sealed and slowly cooked on dum – a method of cooking where food is steamed over a low flame.
The result is a flavorful and fragrant dish that can be served with chutney, raita or curry. Depending on the region, biryani can take on different flavors and ingredients. For example, in the Punjab region of Pakistan, biryani is typically served with a boiled egg, while in Sindh, potatoes are commonly added to the dish.
No matter where it’s served, biryani is sure to please any palate and is a must-try when visiting Pakistan!
5) Fresh Khalas Lassi (Pakistani Foods and Drinks)
Lassi is a traditional Pakistani drink made of yoghurt and spices. It’s incredibly popular in the region and can be found in almost every home. The recipe for lassi varies from family to family, but the most common ingredients include yogurt, sugar, rose water, and either cardamom or saffron. The mix is blended together until it is a smooth consistency, then served cold. Lassi is great for cooling down on hot days and can be enjoyed at breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
It can also be mixed with other flavors such as mango, banana, and strawberry for a more refreshing experience. Whether you’re visiting Pakistan or looking to try something new at home, lassi is a must-have! It’s especially popular during Ramadan, when Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset and are not permitted to eat or drink anything during daylight hours. Instead of drinking coffee for energy during the day, many people will sip on this chilled yogurt drink instead.
