Most popular street foods in Pakistan

 

Pakistan is a country where the flavors of Asia and the Middle East merge into an explosion of tastes and aromas. The cuisine of Pakistan reflects the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the people, who have been influenced by various invaders, traders, and settlers throughout history. One of the best ways to experience the authentic Pakistani food is to explore the street food scene, where you can find a variety of dishes that are cheap, delicious, and satisfying.

In this blog, I will introduce you to some of the most popular street foods and drinks in Pakistan that you must try if you visit this beautiful country. Whether you are a meat lover, a vegetarian, or a sweet tooth, there is something for everyone in the Pakistani street food culture.

Meaty Street Foods

Pakistani cuisine is part of the Halal culinary culture of Islam, so you won’t find dishes made with pork or alcohol in this country. However, Pakistanis love food that includes meat and spices, so these dishes in this country are well made and numerous. Here are some of the meaty street foods that you should not miss:

• Kebabs: These are grilled or fried pieces of meat (usually beef, chicken, lamb, or mutton) that are marinated in spices and herbs. There are many types of kebabs in Pakistan, such as shami kebab (small patties made with minced meat mixed with split chickpeas, onion, mint, green chili and egg), seekh kebab (skewered minced meat), chapli kebab (flat and round minced meat), tikka kebab (cubed meat), and bihari kebab (thin strips of meat). Kebabs are usually served with bread (such as naan or roti), salad, yogurt sauce, and chutney.
  
  
  
• Nihari: This is a slow-cooked stew of lamb or beef shank (including the bone marrow) that is simmered in a spicy gravy. Nihari is considered a delicacy and is often eaten for breakfast or on special occasions. It is usually garnished with ginger, green chilies, lemon juice, coriander leaves, and fried onions. Nihari is best enjoyed with naan bread or kulcha (a leavened flatbread) .
  
  
  
• Haleem: This is a hearty dish of lentils, wheat, barley, minced beef or other meat that is cooked for hours in gentle spices. Haleem has a thick and porridge-like consistency and is often topped with fried onions, lemon juice, coriander leaves, green chilies, and chaat masala (a spice mix). Haleem is a popular dish during Muharram .
  
  
  
• Biryani: This is a rice dish that is cooked with meat (usually chicken or mutton), spices (such as cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, saffron), yogurt, and fried onions. Biryani can be accompanied by raita (a yogurt-based sauce), salad, or shorba (a thin soup).