By Nandini Bhushan
The picturesque and spectacular paradise of Kashmir is known for its breathtaking landscape. Its flavourful and aromatic cuisine has a delightful blend of Indian, Central Asian and Persian influences. From the traditional Wazwan to the quintessential Kahwa, traditional Kashmiri food bursts with the aroma of whole spices. Broadly categorised into two groups – Kashmiri Pandit Cuisine and Kashmiri Muslim Food, the food is primarily dominated by meat dishes but at the same time also offers a wide variety of vegetables and rice dishes. Overall, Kashmiri cuisine is a delightful exploration of unique and unforgettable dining experiences.
Also try: Indian Food Recipes: Kashmiri Yakhni
Shufta
Shufta is a traditional Kashmiri dessert that not only tastes awesome but is loaded with health benefits too. Made with various dry fruits and coated with sugar syrup, it helps fight the cold weather by providing warmth to the body.
Ingredients
(Serves 7 to 8 people)
Cashew nuts: ½ cup
Almonds: ½ cup
Walnut: ½ cup
Pistachio: ½ cup
Big raisin: ½ cup
Dry coconut: ½ cup
Dry dates: 8
Paneer: ½ cup ( cut into small pieces)
Sugar: 2 cups
Ghee: ½ cup
Cinnamon powder: 1 tsp
Black pepper: 1 tsp
Dried rose petals: 2 tsp
Saffron: a pinch
Step 1
For about half an hour, soak cashew nuts, almonds, raisins, walnuts, and pistachios in water.
Step 2
In a separate bowl soak the dry dates and slice them into small pieces.
Step 3
Heat ghee in a pan and fry the coconut until golden brown. Take them out.
Step 4
In the same pan fry the paneer pieces until slightly brown.
Step 5
Drain the water and fry the dry fruits. Once it changes its colour add the fried coconut.
Step 6
Add sugar, cinnamon powder, cardamom powder, ginger powder, black pepper powder, and rose petals in a separate saucepan, and cook until the sugar dissolves.
Step 7
Pour over the roasted dry fruits and paneer mix and serve.
