Explore Local Cuisine

Explore Local Cuisine, Manali Overview

Situated among sublime hillsides and delightful valleys in the foothills of the majestic Himalayas is the stunning hill station of Manali. Not only a popular tourist destination, Manali is also home to some of the most incredible Himachali cuisine. Himachali cuisine is the traditional food of the Himachal Pradesh region and brings together the flavors, aromas, and ingredients of the high mountains.One of the must-try dishes of Himachali cuisine in Manali is the Mittha, a sweet treat made with semolina, fried cashew, and raisins. This dish is known for its sweetness and can be topped off with hot milk or cream for added flavor. A variety of local vegetables are also included in the Himachali cuisine such as potato, red/green peas, cauliflower, ginger, red chillies, and tomato.

These vegetables are usually found in the classic dish called Patande, which is a combination of vegetables cooked with gram flour, red chilli, and onion.Another popular Himachali dish in Manali is the Channa Madra, a rich slow-cooked curry made with chickpeas, yogurt, garlic, and more.

The dish is quite unique and flavorful, and is usually served along with hot steamed rice. A variety of other saucy dishes include iconic dishes such as Kala Channa, Pahadi Chana, Bhindi, and Chhit.The Himachali cuisine also offers a variety of cooked meats. A popular dish is the Siddus, which is a slow-cooked stew made with pork, subtle spices, and yogurt. Using time-honored methods, the Himachali people have also perfected the delicacy of slow-cooked mutton. This dish is called Khatte Masale Ka Gosht and can be found in many cafes and restaurants throughout Manali.In addition, the Himachali cuisine also includes a variety of desserts made with traditional ingredients. One of the most popular desserts is Patuli, a sweet dish made with wheat flour, clarified butter, sugar, cashews and more. The Himachal Pradesh region is also known for its delicious pear halwa, which is a traditional dish made with wheat, clarified butter, and generous amounts of sugar.To fully explore the Himachali cuisine in Manali, visitors must first step into one of the many cafes and restaurants around the area. Here, travelers can indulge in some of the most delectable dishes of the Himachal Pradesh region. From sweet treats, to rich curries, and slow-cooked meats, the Himachali cuisine of Manali is truly worth exploring.