Culinary Odyssey: Must-Try Top 10 Kashmiri Dishes at Vivanta Katra's Mynt
Nestled at the foothills of the majestic Trikuta Mountains, Vivanta Katra offers an opulent haven for travellers seeking both spiritual solace and luxurious comfort. Among the many charms of this exquisite hotel, Mynt, the in-house restaurant, stands out as a culinary gem.
The guests embark on a gastronomic journey through the flavours of Kashmir, a region renowned for its rich culinary heritage. Let’s explore the top 10 must-try Kashmiri dishes at Mynt, each a testament to the artistry and tradition of Kashmiri cuisine.
1. ROGAN JOSH
A signature dish of Kashmiri cuisine, Rogan Josh is a fragrant lamb curry that epitomizes the region’s culinary elegance. Cooked with tender lamb, a blend of aromatic spices, and a generous dose of Kashmiri red chili, this dish is a symphony of flavours.
The vibrant red colour and the rich, velvety texture of the gravy make Rogan Josh an absolute must-try at Mynt. The lamb is slow cooked to perfection, allowing the spices to infuse the meat thoroughly, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and delicate.
2. YAKHNI
Yakhni is a delicate and flavourful yogurt-based mutton curry that showcases the subtlety of Kashmiri cooking. Infused with a melange of spices like fennel, cardamom, and bay leaves, Yakhni is known for its creamy texture and fragrant aroma.
At Mynt, this dish is prepared to perfection, offering a soothing and delightful experience for the palate. The yogurt imparts a tangy richness to the sauce, while the slow-cooked mutton remains tender and succulent, making Yakhni a refined and comforting choice.
3. DUM ALOO
Dum Aloo is a vegetarian delight that features baby potatoes cooked in a rich, spicy gravy. The potatoes are first deep-fried to a golden crisp and then simmered in a flavourful blend of yogurt, tomatoes, and spices.
This dish is a testament to the versatility of Kashmiri cuisine and is a favourite among both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. The gravy is a harmonious blend of tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavours, coating the potatoes beautifully and making every bite a burst of flavour. Visitors to the spiritual destinations in the region can also enjoy the soulful abodes offered by Vivanta Katra, ensuring a truly enriching experience.
4. HAAK SAAG
For those seeking a healthy yet delicious option, Haak Saag is a perfect choice. This simple yet flavourful dish consists of leafy greens, typically collard greens or spinach, sautéed with garlic, green chilies, and asafoetida.
The freshness of the greens and the subtle seasoning make Haak Saag a refreshing addition to any meal at Mynt. The dish is lightly spiced, allowing the natural flavours of the greens to shine through, and is often enjoyed with steamed rice.
5. GUSHTABA
Often referred to as the "king of Kashmiri cuisine," Gushtaba is a regal dish made with minced mutton balls cooked in a creamy yogurt-based gravy. The mutton is finely minced and seasoned with a blend of spices before being shaped into balls and simmered in the rich, tangy sauce.
This dish is traditionally reserved for special occasions and celebrations, and at Mynt, it is crafted with the utmost care and precision. The meatballs are incredibly tender, almost melt-in-your-mouth, while the gravy is luxuriously smooth and bursting with flavour
6. MODUR PULAO
Modur Pulao is a sweet and aromatic Kashmiri rice dish that combines the richness of dry fruits and saffron with the sweetness of sugar. Basmati rice is cooked with an array of spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, and garnished with almonds, cashews, and raisins.
The result is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make Modur Pulao a standout dish at Mynt. The sweet notes from the sugar and dry fruits perfectly balance the aromatic spices, creating a dish that is both indulgent and comforting.
7. RISTA
Rista is another exquisite mutton dish that is a staple of Kashmiri Wazwan, a traditional multi-course meal. The dish features tender meatballs cooked in a spicy red gravy made with yogurt, red chili powder, and a host of aromatic spices.
The meatballs are incredibly soft and flavourful, absorbing the rich flavours of the gravy, making Rista a must-try for meat lovers at Mynt. The vibrant red colour of the gravy is achieved using Kashmiri red chilies, which impart a mild heat and a deep, rich flavour to the dish.
8. KASHMIRI NADRU YAKHNI
Kashmiri Nadru Yakhni is a unique and flavourful dish that highlights the region’s love for lotus stems. The lotus stems are cooked in a yogurt-based gravy seasoned with fennel, cardamom, and dry ginger powder.
The dish has a creamy texture and a mild, aromatic flavour that makes it a delightful vegetarian option at Mynt. The crunchy texture of the lotus stems provides a wonderful contrast to the smooth, rich gravy, making this dish both interesting and satisfying.
9. KAHWA
No Kashmiri meal is complete without a cup of Kahwa, the traditional Kashmiri green tea. This fragrant tea is brewed with saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, and garnished with crushed almonds.
Served hot, Kahwa is not only a soothing beverage but also aids in digestion, making it the perfect way to conclude a sumptuous meal at Mynt. The delicate flavours of the saffron and spices blend harmoniously, providing a warm, comforting end to the dining experience.
10. PHIRNI
To round off your culinary journey at Mynt, indulge in a bowl of Phirni, a creamy rice pudding flavoured with cardamom and saffron. This dessert is garnished with slivers of almonds and pistachios, adding a delightful crunch to the smooth, rich pudding.
The subtle sweetness and aromatic spices make Phirni a perfect end to a Kashmiri feast. The dessert is served chilled, providing a refreshing and satisfying conclusion to the meal.
Conclusion
Vivanta Katra offers a culinary odyssey through the rich and diverse flavours of Kashmiri cuisine. Each dish, from the robust Rogan Josh to the delicate Phirni, is crafted with authentic ingredients and traditional techniques, promising an unforgettable dining experience.
Whether you are a seasoned food connoisseur or a curious traveller, the Kashmiri dishes at Mynt will captivate your senses and leave you yearning for more. So, embark on this gastronomic journey and savour the essence of Kashmir at Mynt.