Pakistanis have their favorite season of the year – Winter! Apart from wrapping themselves in warm and cozy sweaters and resting under soft blankets for hours, people enjoy these cool days and chilly nights with body-warming and traditional winter foods. No matter the season, Pakistanis enjoy every food delicacy in its unique form – from Mongphali to Kashmiri Chai. If you have missed or are unaware of any of the must-have winter food items, please read on and enjoy!

Traditional Winter Foods in Pakistan

Snacks and Appetizers

Want a snack or something quick to eat? Want to keep warm in the cold weather? If so, here are some great choices for foodies in Pakistan. You can also consult a nutritionist to get your customized winter food plan.

1- SOUP

There’s nothing like a warm bowl of soup to make you feel better. Soups are a great way to start your meal because they are the ultimate comfort food. Choose from a choice of proteins, such as chicken, shrimp, or prawns, then season with just the proper amount of spices, and you’ve got yourself a bowl of deliciousness. The possibilities are virtually unlimited, from classic chicken corn soup to hot and sour tomato, mushroom, basil, and even vegetarian soups. You can make a bowl at home or order it from one of your favorite eateries; the choice is yours! But do not forget to read the 7 unhealthy Lahori foods.

2- FRIED FISH

Fried fish is a good choice if you want a more crunchy appetizer. While the British version of the meal is known worldwide as “fish and chips,” the Lahori Fish Fry is by far the most popular in our country. With the ingrained cultural idea that fish is one of several foods that raise body temperature and should thus be consumed in the winter. According to the American Heart Association, eating fish two times a week reduces the risk of a heart stroke. Various booths and dhaabas begin serving this delicacy as soon as the first winter winds blow. Many of the places also provide grilled or steamed fish with various spice combinations for Pakistani foodies to try.

3- DRY FRUITS

Winter brings a lot of food desires with it, but it also brings a lot of healthful snacks, particularly dry fruits. Snacking is no more a guilty pleasure when you have a bag of nuts and dried fruits with you. Pakistan is abundant in crunchy goodies such as peanuts, walnuts, dried figs, cashews, pistachios, almonds, and more. However, depending on the market rates and demand, the costs of some of these dry fruits may be sky-high, so it’s best to get them before the season begins.

Main Course

Mealtimes in Pakistani families is when the entire family gathers to bond over a deliciously prepared meal. Winter brings coziness and comfort food to a whole new level with a couple of the following meals.

4- HALWA PURI

For many people, Halwa Puri is a year-round breakfast staple, but it becomes even more popular with the approach of winter. It’s not uncommon to see foodies coming out in groups to enjoy this delicacy first thing in the morning. Pakistanis can’t get enough of sitting at a dhaaba in the chilly air and eating hot puris with gravies prepared from potatoes and legumes. Families and friends alike are ready to get out and enjoy the winter weather with this traditional comfort food. You can also read 10 recommended foods that can help You lose weight.

5- SARSON KA SAAG

This Punjabi dish is best served with Makkai ki Roti or cornbread throughout the winter months. Because the recipe calls for a lot of work, it’s best to make it at home using desi ghee instead of ordering it at a restaurant to get the real deal. Also, serve it with butter and consume it as soon as the cornbread is removed from the heat. It’s better to eat this meal when it’s still hot!

6- PAAYE

While Paaye can be enjoyed all year, soaking up a hot gravy with naan, bread, or kulchas becomes even more appealing when dining in the winter. You can prepare your version of this dish at home or get it from a local restaurant.

7- HAREESA

Hareesa is the bland, watered-down form of Haleem but differs in taste and consistency. Warm yourself up for chilly winter nights ahead by eating it with a spoon or naan and khulchas.

8- NIHARI

Nihari is wonderful in every way, whether made from camel meat, beef, or chicken, and it may be eaten for breakfast or dinner. This hot, saucy meal is usually served with fresh naan from the tandoor. Nihari is a fixture in many restaurants’ menus, and several restaurants in Karachi also have made it their specialty throughout the years.

Dessert

It’s simple to satisfy your sweet taste in the winter, and if you want to make the most out of the season, here’s one treat that every foodie in Pakistan should try. Do not hesitate to consult a dietitian if you have any queries.

9- HALWA

Halwa, yes. Whether cooked with carrots, pulses, or pumpkins, this sweet and warming dish is a must-have at all winter weddings and parties. ” Gajar ka Halwa” is also a popular dessert in many families across the country. While the basic recipe remains the same (carrots, milk, and sugar), some people add khoya to a fuller texture.

Beverage

Are you looking for a way to drive away from the winter chills? Grab a hot drink while you wrap yourself in a blanket. Here is one of the best beverages to enjoy this winter. You can also read the 5 foods for better sleep.

10- KASHMIRI CHAI

Kashmiri Chai is the perfect beverage to keep the winter chills at bay. It’s warm, sweet, nutty, and wonderful. Kashmiri chai, also known as pink tea, is created with a specific blend of tea leaves, cream, salt, and a pinch of baking soda. Ground almonds and pistachios are commonly used to garnish tea. When winter arrives, Kashmiri chai is readily available at tea vendors all around the city. It’s also a popular choice for winter weddings.

These are a few of Pakistan’s best winter foods. You can add your twist to the dishes above or have them as authentic as they come; the choice is yours! And if you are allergic to any foods, make an appointment with the nutritionist to get the best advice.

Happy Winters, Everyone!

FAQs

1- Why does hunger increase in winter?

The cold weather reduces our body temperature, thereby stimulating our appetite. It is because eating generates internal heat, which leads to a rise in body temperature.

2- What is the best time to eat dry fruits?

The best time to consume dried fruits is in the early morning after soaking them in water overnight. Even though dry fruits are a healthy alternative to junk food, they should not be consumed at night.

3- Should children eat fish?

Yes, but their portion size must be smaller than adults and appropriate for their body weight and age.

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