Kumaoni cuisine is a delightful gastronomical experience for anyone who loves to indulge in local food. The cuisine of the Kumaon region in Uttarakhand is known for its unique flavors and spices that make it stand out from other Indian cuisines. If you are a foodie, you must try some of the delicious Kumaoni dishes during your visit to Jim Corbett National Park. Here is a foodie’s guide to the Kumaoni cuisine and how to prepare two of the most famous dishes yourself.
- Baadi: Baadi is a staple food of Kumaon region and is made of coarse wheat flour, which is cooked on a tawa. It is best enjoyed with ghee, jaggery, and a bowl of dal. To prepare Baadi, you need to mix wheat flour, salt, and water to make a dough. Divide the dough into small balls and roll them out into small circles. Cook the Baadi on a hot tawa and serve with ghee and jaggery.
- Bhatt ki Churkani: Bhatt ki Churkani is a popular Kumaoni dish that is made from black beans. The dish is slow-cooked in a clay pot with a mix of spices that give it a unique flavor. To prepare Bhatt ki Churkani, soak black beans overnight and pressure cook them till they are soft. In a separate pan, heat oil, add cumin seeds, chopped onions, and ginger-garlic paste. Add tomato puree, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt. Add the cooked black beans and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed rice.
Apart from Baadi and Bhatt ki Churkani, there are many other Kumaoni dishes that are worth trying. Some of the other popular dishes include Aloo ke Gutke, Bhang ki Chutney, and Ras. The best places to try Kumaoni cuisine are the local dhabas and restaurants in the nearby towns of Ramnagar, Nainital, and Haldwani.
While trying local cuisine is a must-do experience for any foodie, it is also essential to be mindful of food hygiene and safety. Always choose a hygienic and reputable restaurant or eatery. If you are preparing the dishes yourself, make sure to use fresh ingredients and clean cooking utensils.
In conclusion, Kumaoni cuisine is a unique and flavorful culinary experience that should not be missed during your visit to Jim Corbett National Park. With its mix of spices, local ingredients, and cooking techniques, Kumaoni dishes are a treat for any food lover. So, go ahead and indulge in the local cuisine to make your trip to Jim Corbett National Park even more memorable.
You are also free to choose any dish from the rich world cuisine menu, available at our à la carte restaurant 24/7.
