Nestled in the northern plains of India, Haryana is a state steeped in rich history and agricultural abundance. This vibrant land is known for its robust, wholesome cuisine that reflects its rural roots and the bounty of fresh produce grown in the region. Haryana’s culinary scene is characterized by simple yet satisfying dishes that burst with authentic flavors, offering a true taste of India’s heartland.
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds as I, a food blogger specializing in Haryanvi delights, reveal the secrets behind the state’s most iconic dishes. From earthy lentils to creamy curries, Haryana’s traditional preparations will leave you craving for more.
1. Bajra Khichdi
Description:
Bajra Khichdi is a heartwarming porridge made from coarsely ground pearl millet (bajra), lentils, and a medley of warming spices. This iconic comfort food is a staple in Haryanvi homes, especially during the colder months.
Recipe:
https://smithakalluraya.com/bajra-khichdi-pearl-millet-khichdi/#recipe
Key Ingredients:
- Pearl millet (bajra)
- Yellow moong dal
- Turmeric powder
- Cumin seeds
- Salt
- Ghee (clarified butter)
Restaurant Recommendations:
While Bajra Khichdi is best enjoyed as home-cooked fare, you can get a delicious taste at Pehelwan Dhaba in Murthal.
2. Kadhi Pakora
Description:
Kadhi Pakora is a symphony of tangy yogurt-based curry (kadhi) and crispy chickpea flour fritters (pakoras). The mildly spiced kadhi provides a creamy base, while the fluffy pakoras add texture and a burst of savory flavor. This quintessential Haryanvi dish is often enjoyed with rice or roti.
Recipe:
Key Ingredients:
- For Kadhi:
- Yogurt (curd)
- Besan (chickpea flour)
- Turmeric powder
- Red chili powder
- Salt
- Oil
- Fenugreek seeds
- For Pakoras:
- Besan (chickpea flour)
- Onions
- Green chilies
- Coriander leaves
- Spices (turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder)
- Salt
- Oil for deep frying
Restaurant Recommendations:
Enjoy a delightful Kadhi Pakora experience at Haveli, Karnal.
3. Besan Ki Masaledar Roti
Description:
This flavorful flatbread breaks away from the norm! Besan Ki Masaledar Roti is made with besan (chickpea flour) instead of the usual wheat flour, offering a distinct taste and texture. Infused with aromatic spices and often filled with tangy ingredients, it’s a true culinary adventure for your tastebuds.
Recipe:
https://cookpad.com/in/recipes/13518545-besan-masala-roti
Key Ingredients:
- Besan (chickpea flour)
- Whole wheat flour (optional)
- Spices (turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, dry mango powder, cumin powder)
- Green chilies
- Fresh coriander leaves
- Salt
- Oil or ghee
Restaurant Recommendations:
For an authentic Besan Ki Masaledar Roti experience, Pandit Ji Paranthe Wale in Sonipat is a local favorite.
4. Kachri Ki Sabzi
Description:
Kachri Ki Sabzi introduces you to a unique ingredient – kachri, a small wild melon native to the region. This tangy and slightly spicy vegetable dish boasts a burst of flavors and textures that truly embody the essence of Haryanvi cuisine.
Recipe:
https://www.myweekendkitchen.in/kachri-phali-sabzi-cucumber-beans-veg/#wprm-recipe-container-6065
Key Ingredients:
- Kachri
- Onions
- Tomatoes
- Spices (turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, dry mango powder)
- Mustard oil
- Salt
Restaurant Recommendations:
For a taste of traditional Kachri Ki Sabzi, try Sharma Bhojanalaya in Rohtak, known for its authentic Haryanvi dishes.
5. Methi Gajar Malai
Description:
Methi Gajar Malai is a rich and creamy dish that showcases the delicious combination of fresh fenugreek leaves (methi) and sweet carrots. The addition of malai (cream) adds a luxurious touch, creating a velvety texture and mellow sweetness that perfectly complements the slight bitterness of the fenugreek.
Recipe:
https://aartimadan.com/methi-matar-malai/
Key Ingredients:
- Fresh fenugreek leaves (methi)
- Carrots
- Malai (cream) or milk
- Onions
- Ginger-garlic paste
- Spices (turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder)
- Ghee (clarified butter)
- Salt
Restaurant Recommendations:
Mannat Dhaba on NH1, Karnal is renowned for its delightful Methi Gajar Malai and other Haryanvi specialties.
6. Singri Ki Sabzi
Description:
This unique dish introduces you to ‘singri’, a wild bean plant that thrives in the arid regions of Haryana. Singri Ki Sabzi is made from the plant’s long, slender bean pods, offering an earthy, slightly spicy flavor with a distinct crunchy texture.
Recipe:
https://www.whiskaffair.com/ker-sangri/#wprm-recipe-container-24506
Key Ingredients:
- Singri beans
- Onions
- Tomatoes
- Spices (turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, dry mango powder)
- Mustard oil
- Salt
Restaurant Recommendations:
Bhojan Thali in Gurugram offers an authentic taste of Singri Ki Sabzi within their traditional Haryanvi thalis.
7. Hara Dhania Cholia
Description:
Hara Dhania Cholia is a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish featuring fresh green chickpeas (cholia) simmered in a fragrant blend of spices, with fresh coriander (hara dhania) adding a burst of herbaceous flavor.
Recipe:
https://www.vidhyashomecooking.com/instant-pot-hara-dhaniya-cholia-cilantro-green-chickpeas-curry/
Key Ingredients:
- Fresh green chickpeas (cholia)
- Onions
- Tomatoes
- Ginger-garlic paste
- Spices (turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder)
- Fresh coriander leaves (hara dhania)
- Oil
- Salt
Restaurant Recommendations:
While delicious versions are found in many Haryanvi restaurants, Gulshan Dhaba on the Delhi-Jaipur highway is known for its excellent Hara Dhania Cholia
8. Tamatar Chutney
Description:
Tamatar Chutney is a vibrant, tangy, and spicy tomato-based chutney that adds a burst of flavor to any Haryanvi meal. Made with ripe tomatoes, a medley of spices, and a hint of sweetness, it’s the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes.
Recipe:
Key Ingredients:
- Ripe tomatoes
- Ginger and garlic
- Green chilies
- Spices (turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder)
- A hint of jaggery or sugar (optional)
- Oil
- Salt
Restaurant Recommendations:
Dharam Dhaba in Murthal is a legendary spot with a Tamatar Chutney so delicious, customers often ask to take some home!
9. Bathua Raita
Description:
Bathua Raita is a refreshing yogurt-based side dish featuring bathua, a nutritious green leafy vegetable commonly found in Haryana. The mild flavor of bathua, blended with creamy yogurt and a touch of spices, creates a delightful accompaniment to savory Haryanvi dishes.
Recipe:
https://www.archanaskitchen.com/bathua-raita-recipe
Key Ingredients:
- Bathua leaves
- Yogurt (curd)
- Roasted cumin powder
- Black salt (kala namak)
- Green chilies (optional)
- Salt
Restaurant Recommendations:
Rao Dhaba in Dharuhera is popular for its wholesome food, including a delicious Bathua Raita.
A Journey Complete, but the Exploration Continues
This concludes our initial exploration of Haryanvi cuisine. Remember, this is just a taste of the vast and diverse culinary landscape of this vibrant state. From delectable sweets to flavorful snacks, there’s much more to uncover. I hope this journey has ignited your interest and left you craving the rustic and satisfying flavors of Haryana!
