Mallika Dureja
Dharamshala, nestled in the Himalayan foothills, offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects its multicultural heritage. Here’s a guide to the must-try dishes and eateries in Dharamshala:
1. Momos:
- Where to Try: Visit any local street food stall or cafe.
- Why: These steamed or fried dumplings stuffed with vegetables, meat, or cheese are a Tibetan specialty and an absolute must-try.
2. Thukpa:
- Where to Try: Little Lhasa Café, McLeod Ganj.
- Why: This hearty Tibetan noodle soup, often made with vegetables and meat, is perfect for warming up on chilly evenings.
3. Tibetan Bread:
- Where to Try: Dharamshala’s local bakeries.
- Why: Enjoy freshly baked Tibetan bread, known as tingmo or baklep, with honey or jam for a delicious breakfast treat.
4. Bhagsu Cake:
- Where to Try: Shiva Café, Bhagsu.
- Why: A delightful dessert, Bhagsu Cake is a moist, multi-layered cake made with local ingredients and served with hot chai.
5. Thenthuk:
- Where to Try: Tibet Kitchen, McLeod Ganj.
- Why: Thenthuk is a hearty Tibetan noodle soup with handmade flat noodles, vegetables, and your choice of meat.
6. Himachali Dham:
- Where to Try: Local restaurants and dhabas.
- Why: Experience the rich flavors of Himachali cuisine with Dham, a traditional platter of rice, dal, curries, and sweets served during festivals.
7. Butter Tea:
- Where to Try: Local tea shops and monasteries.
- Why: Enjoy a unique cup of butter tea, a Tibetan staple made with yak butter, salt, and tea leaves.
8. Mutton Curry:
- Where to Try: Authentic Himachali restaurants.
- Why: Savor tender mutton cooked in aromatic spices and served with steamed rice or bread.
9. Local Honey:
- Where to Try: Farmers’ markets.
- Why: Taste pure Himalayan honey, a local delicacy known for its rich flavor and health benefits.
10. Tibetan Momos with Sauce: – Where to Try: Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen, McLeod Ganj. – Why: Experience a fusion of Tibetan momos with Italian flavors in a delightful sauce.
11. Café Culture: – Where to Try: Explore the cozy cafes in McLeod Ganj. – Why: Dharamshala’s cafes offer a wide range of cuisines, from Italian and Israeli to Indian and Tibetan, along with stunning views.
12. Kangra Tea: – Where to Try: Local tea stores. – Why: Sip on Kangra tea, a local specialty known for its aromatic and soothing properties.
Dharamshala’s culinary scene is a reflection of its multicultural identity. From Tibetan delights to Himachali flavors, you’ll find a rich tapestry of tastes to explore in this Himalayan town.
