Think Hyderabad and all you can think about is the legendary Hyderabadi biryani, other meaty preparations like nihari, korma and kebabs follow suite. But to think that's all the city has to offer is a gross misunderstanding. Hyderabad has plenty to offer if you are a vegetarian, or enjoy vegetarian food, both in terms of flavour and range. So brace yourself, and get started. It is time to wipe-off age-old stereotypes, one stellar recipe at a time. From bagara baingan to chowgra, there are options galore to pick and choose from, here are some of our veg favourites of all times.
7 Veg Hyderabadi Recipes That Are Nothing Short Of Sensation:
Khatti dal
India and its love affair of Dal is evident in its rich range of dals. You may have had the creamy Dal Makhani or North, or the slightly sweet dal of Gujarat, but have you ever tried Hyderabad's khatti dal? It is ideal for those who never mind something tangy and refreshing. Here's a recipe you should try.
Mirchi Ka Salan
Made with green chillies, peanuts, curry leaves, and tamarind has that perfectly tangy and tropical flavour that intermingles very well with the hotness of the dish. This delectable gravy dish is often served with the very famous Hyderabadi biryani, and despite that, it never goes unnoticed. Wondering how to make it at home, here's a recipe.
Bagara baingan
Here's an interesting tidbit about eggplants we learnt the other day. The fact that eggplant is so pervasive and is a part of so many regional cuisines and also because you do not need special conditions to grow it. It is very easy to cultivate eggplants as they can even grow in the wilds. Bagara baingan is a Hyderabadi speciality. Cut brinjal, tossed in an array of spicy and tangy masalas. Bagara baingan goes best with rice. Click here for the recipe.
Double Ka Meetha
The Hyderabadi cousin of Awadh's Shahi Tukda, double ka meetha is a festive treat made with fried pieces of bread that are slathered over with a creamy milk reduction. The third layer is that of sugar syrup. You can simply layer the fried bread with condensed milk and sugar syrup, or bake it for a more creamy texture. Here's the recipe.
Burani Raita
Much like salan, this popular side-dish is also served with the iconic Hyderabadi Biryani. Burani Raita translates to garlic raita. This raita has a pungent kick that makes this savoury treat even more special. You can alter the hotness of this raita as per your palate. Here's a recipe you may enjoy.
Hyderabadi Phirni
Phirni, much like kheer, is a milk pudding made with rice and sugar, except the variant of rice used in this dessert is slightly different. It is traditionally made with broken rice, even the consistency of this pudding is thicker and more wobbly. This phirni recipe also comes with the fragrant goodness of cardamom and rose essence.
Chowgra
A heartwarming medley of vegetables like cauliflower, beans, carrots and brinjal, deep-fried and tossed in a spicy yogurt base. This mixed veg delicacy works as a delish side dish. You can have it with just rice and a spoonful of ghee as well. Here's the fabulous recipe.
Try these recipes and let us know how you liked it in the comments below.