Making the case for Lucknow's UNESCO nod
Muskuraiye, aap Lucknow mein hain!The City of Nawabs, Lucknow, is the largest city in Uttar Pradesh and has now secured a place as India's official nominee for the UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy. From the unique craftsmanship of chikankari and the concept of tehzeeb (social etiquette), to the historical legacy of monuments and the aroma of kebabs freshly off the stove, Lucknow is royalty served on a platter.advertisementThis city brims with heartwarming hospitality, history, traditions, and is a treasure trove of mouthwatering delicacies. This nomination has officially put Lucknow's culinary heritage on the world map.
Bara Imambara (Photo: author)
According to the official website, the UNESCO Creative Cities Network was established in 2004 and currently comprises 350 cities. It recognises these creative cities based on seven creative fields - crafts and folk art, design, film, gastronomy, literature, music and media arts.Lucknow's Awadhi legacySpeaking of the foodscape in Lucknow, calling it a haven for food is probably an understatement. It's the aroma of Awadhi cuisine that lures people into this city.advertisementThe central idea of Awadhi gastronomy is the use of rich spices and a slow cooking method. These traditions take you back to the Nawabi era, where food was not just a meal, but an experience.
Awadhi biryani is slow cooked to perfection (Photo: Pexels)
Awadhi cuisine has traces of Mughal influence now intertwined with Persian and Indian culinary practices. The dum style of cooking, where they slow cook to perfection, is a proud gift from Awadhi cookery traditions.Daawat-e-Ishq ft. LucknowFrom breakfast to dinner, vegetarian to non-vegetarian, Lucknow's got something for every craving. From Sharma ji ki chai to Dastarkhwan to Tunday Kebabi, Lucknow is indeed a creative gastronomy space. Here are some of the iconic dishes that are a hard pass. You will know why.
Bun maska and tea at Sharma Ji Ki Chai (Photo: author)
Kebabs – Awadhi kebabs are celebrated for their bold flavours and melt-in-the-mouth textures. They are an essential part of the region's culinary heritage. From kakori and galouti to shami, boti, patili-ke-kebabs, and seekh kebabs, the variety is impressive. And then there are the lesser-known gems, best discovered while strolling through the bustling streets. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The City Diary | Lucknow (@thecitydiarylucknow)Korma – It is a rich, creamy curry that traces its origins to Mughal cuisine. Packed with robust spices, it is usually made with chicken or vegetables. While it's considered comfort food, it carries a royal flair.Nihari – Whether made with mutton or chicken, nihari is a slow-cooked meat stew that stays true to Awadhi traditions. It's perfect for those 'I want to eat something rich' cravings. Just onions, garlic, and a handful of spices are enough to work the magic.
Mutton Nihari is a famous, flavoursome dish from Lucknow (Photo: Pexels)
advertisementAwadhi Biryani – Aromatic, subtle yet full of character. The biryani is infused with flavours and is slow-cooked to perfection.Tokri Chaat – The iconic basket chaat is a burst of flavours. It features a crispy aloo tikki basket filled with chickpeas, papdi, spices, curd, and chutneys. The Royal Cafe is believed to be the creator of this masterpiece. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bhawan (@bhawan.india)After a day of ganjing, getting lost in the maze of Bara Imambara, and soaking in the charm of Lucknow, indulging in Lucknawi food is pure bliss. Every bite tells a story. And of course, let's not forget the tehzeeb at the table! And does that mean Lucknow stands a chance to win the title? Hell yes!Tune InMust Watch
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