Kashmiri breakfasts: Flavorful and comforting dishes to try
What's the story
Kashmiri breakfasts are soothing and invigorating. Known for their rich flavors and aromatic spices, Kashmiri breakfasts make for a serene start to the day. The locals prepare traditional dishes with locally sourced ingredients, ensuring freshness and authenticity. From warm breads to flavorful teas, each component of a Kashmiri breakfast is designed to comfort the soul and energize the body.
Breads
Traditional breads of Kashmir
Kashmiri breakfasts are generally accompanied by a variety of traditional breads that are hearty and delicious. Girda is a popular choice, which is soft from the inside and slightly crispy from the outside. Another favorite is lavasa, which is thinner and goes well with different spreads or dips. These breads are usually tandoor-baked, which adds a unique taste, blending perfectly with the other elements of the meal.
Tea
The delightful noon chai
No Kashmiri breakfast is complete without a cup of noon chai, popularly known as pink tea. The distinctive drink uses green tea leaves and combines them with milk, baking soda, and salt to bring out its characteristic pink color and salty flavor. Noon chai is often topped with crushed nuts or saffron strands, and keeps you warm on cold mornings while making a perfect contrast with sweet dishes.
Sweets
Sweet treats for morning bliss
Sweet treats also play an important role in Kashmiri breakfasts by balancing savory dishes such as noon chai or bread varieties like girda or lavasa. Shirmal, a saffron-infused flatbread, topped with sugar syrup or honey drizzle, provides just the right sweetness without overpowering other flavors on the table. Another option includes "Phirni," creamy rice pudding flavored with cardamom and nuts.
Fruits
Fresh fruits for added vitality
Incorporating fresh fruits into your morning routine can boost overall vitality while providing essential nutrients required throughout the day. Apples and apricots, popularly grown in regional orchards, make an excellent addition to any breakfast spread owing to their natural sweetness and juiciness. Pairing these fruits along with traditional dishes creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes sure to satiate even the most discerning palates.