🔗 Share this article

Mouth-watering kebabs, scented biryani, and whipped, ethereal desserts.

The northern Indian city of Lucknow has long been a food lovers' paradise, with inhabitants and tourists equally celebrating its superb cuisine.

A Global Honor

Recently, UNESCO designated it as a UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy – including it in a prestigious roster of global cities and igniting hopes that it will spotlight Lucknow's exceptional food. With this designation, it joins a global network of cities cities across over 100 countries committed to promoting "artistic expression as a driver of sustainable urban development".

The accolade "is a testament to its profound culinary traditions and lively culinary scene," as stated by a spokesperson from UNESCO's Regional Office for South Asia.

Lucknow is only the second Indian city – following Hyderabad, which was picked in 2019 – to secure a position in this highly sought-after list of 70 cities around the world.

A City Defined by Food

The accolade for this historic city arrives as no surprise to its inhabitants or avid food lovers. Many agree with the opinion that it is "an honor long overdue".

With the UNESCO recognition, this cherished, chaotic, and vibrant city – the capital of India's biggest state – is now in the limelight for what has perennially characterized its heart: an immense love for food.

"'What will be cooked, the method of preparation' is a constant conversation from morning until going to bed in many homes," explains a local cultural expert. "And you are often assessed by the quality of food that comes out of your kitchen."

A Heritage of Nawabi Cuisine

The City of Nawabs – as it's often referred to after its historic opulent Muslim rulers – is famed for its melt-in-the-mouth kebabs and a distinctive take on biryani that were invented, evolved, and elevated to extraordinary levels in their imperial kitchens.

These royal kitchens were centers of food experimentation, merging Iranian and native Indian styles to create what became known as the cuisine of Awadh.

It was in this era that Lucknow's most famous kebabs were created. Legend has it that the mutton galouti was devised to feed an elderly nawab who had no longer had his teeth. His cooks processed the meat with raw papaya, saffron, and a blend of spices and made it so silky that it needed no chewing.

But arguably the biggest contribution of the chefs of Awadh was the slow-cook Dum pukht technique, where food is cooked on a low, leisurely heat, with the container's cover securely closed with a flour paste.

More Than Just Famous Dishes

In addition to the famous kebabs and biryani, the cooks also created a repertoire of dishes that included kormas (creamy curries), sheermal (saffron-infused flatbread), and shahi tukda (a sweet bread pudding).

However, Lucknow is far more than kebabs and biryani – the region is additionally a vegetarian's paradise.

The local traditionally vegetarian community's cuisine not only showcases seasonal produce but also provides the city its meticulously prepared Indian desserts, sweets, and unique street food, like chaat – tangy fried snacks.

Iconic Stalls and Historic Shops

Nearly on many street corners, there are little shops and kiosks – lesser-known gems that are extremely loved by the locals.

In the heart of the city of Hazratganj, huge crowds start assembling from 5 am at a legendary tea stall to get a steaming cup of milky masala chai, presented in kulhads, along with fluffy buns slathered with hand-churned white butter.

To start the day, one can make their way to a unpretentious joint located in the historic quarter of Aminabad. Nearly 150 years after it was set up, the place is still much sought-after for its freshly fried kachoris (fried bread stuffed with lentils) and jalebis (crispy, syrup-soaked sweets).

Preserving Tradition for the Future

The city also offers unique seasonal delights, such as makkhan malai, a frothy dessert savored in the winter. The technique of making it is scientific and demanding. The artisan whisks the milk and then sets it out at night, allowing the dew to give it its unique light consistency.

On crisp mornings, street vendors are often seen in old city areas like Aminabad and Chowk. A number of however say that their younger generation are reluctant to learn the craft.

A renowned chef from Lucknow has noted that the city's profound food legacy positions it among the best of the Indian street food experience. The true benefit from the UNESCO recognition, however, will materialize only if Lucknow can now create awareness about its hidden eateries.

Every dish in Lucknow comes with a history – crafted by generational food businesses, from modest street carts to busy restaurants, and secret family recipes.

The international acclaim, it is hoped, will motivate more people around the world to explore these tales and travel to the city to taste the food wonders of Lucknow.