Hunza, located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, is a paradise for food lovers. The cuisine of this beautiful valley is a blend of Central Asian, South Asian, and Middle Eastern flavors, making it unique and irresistible. If you're planning a trip to Hunza or looking at Hunza tour packages, be sure to try the following dishes when you're there!
Chapshoro
Chapshoro is a traditional Hunza dish that resembles a meat pie. It is made by stuffing minced meat (usually lamb or beef) into a dough and then frying or baking it. The filling is usually seasoned with salt, pepper, cumin, and other spices. Chapshoro is a must-try dish for meat lovers.
Hunza Pie
Hunza pie is a vegetarian dish that originated in Hunza. It is made with locally grown apricots, wheat flour, and a mixture of nuts and seeds, including almonds, walnuts, and sesame seeds. The pie has a unique flavor, and the apricots give it a slightly sweet taste.
Mamtu
Mamtu is a traditional Central Asian dish that has become a staple in Hunza. It is made by stuffing dough with minced meat (usually beef or lamb), onions, and spices and then steaming or frying it. The dish is usually served with a tomato-based sauce and yogurt.
Soup Shorba
Soup shorba is a hearty soup that is perfect for cold winter nights in Hunza. It is made with lamb or beef, vegetables, and a variety of spices. The soup is usually served with a dollop of yogurt and bread.
Khaplu Trout
Khaplu trout is a popular dish in Hunza, especially in the town of Khaplu. The trout is locally caught and cooked with a mixture of spices and herbs, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. The dish is usually served with rice or bread.
Diram Pitti
Diram Pitti is not a common dish and is usually saved for special occasions and festivities, much like harissa. It consists mainly of wheat and has a sweet flavor due to the presence of almonds and apricot seed oil. The texture of Diram Pitti is soft, with a brownish color, and is usually consumed during breakfast or lunch.
Hoilo Garma
Hoilo Garma is undoubtedly my favorite food item in Hunza Valley, and I believe it will be hard for anyone not to enjoy it. The dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. The recipe includes organic flour dough mixed with locally sourced spinach and aloo, resulting in a taste similar to Alfredo pasta - a dish you didn't even know you needed.
What sets Hoilo Garma apart from other dishes is the sprinkle of chopped apricot seeds, which adds a cheesy flavor without the need for cheese. This unique twist is what makes it so special to me. If you're traveling from abroad to Pakistan and craving Western food, we highly recommend giving Hoilo Garma a try.
Walnut Cake
The walnut cake is a popular dessert in Hunza, and it is made with locally grown walnuts. The cake has a rich and nutty flavor, and it is usually served with tea or coffee.
How Food Helps Foster Connections And Understand The Culture Better
Food has the power to bring people together, creating a sense of connection and community. Sharing food is a universal human experience, and it can be a way to bridge cultural differences and foster understanding.
• Food reveals much about the customs, beliefs, and traditions of a community. By sharing meals with people from different cultures, we can gain a deeper understanding of their customs, beliefs, and values and build relationships based on mutual respect and appreciation.
• Ingredients, cooking methods, and serving styles reflect the history, geography, and climate of the region.
• Trying new cuisines can open up a world of flavors and textures and can broaden one's perspective and understanding of different cultures.
• Food can create a sense of connection and empathy.
• Sharing food is a way of communicating hospitality, generosity, and appreciation.
• Different cuisines are often associated with different festivals, events, and celebrations, providing insights into cultural practices and values.
In conclusion, Hunza is a food lover's paradise, with a variety of dishes that are unique and delicious. From traditional meat dishes to vegetarian pies and hearty soups, there is something for everyone in Hunza. So, be sure to try these dishes on your next trip to this beautiful valley. Additionally, learn about our hunza tour packages as well as the ones for Hunza, at our Online tour company in Pakistan to get started on an adventure of a lifetime!