One thing you will find common in all the Delhiites is their love for food. Delhi’s food culture is a mix of different traditions and cultures from the past. As people from different places came and settled in, the city acquired identity of all the types of people living in it.
All the rulers and emperors have left the taste of their food behind. The most famous being the Mughlai cuisines from the Mughal era.
Mughlai cuisines were preferred by the royal Mughal Emperors. The Mughalai cuisines are cooked in all parts of the country but the best cuisines are prepared in Delhi. The Delhiites will always be thankful to the Mughals for leaving behind their food recipes.
The Kebabs, one of the most famous Mughlai cuisines are preferred by a majority of people today. Originally, an Iranian dish, the kebabs found place in Middle East, South Asian and Turkish kitchens. Interestingly, according to Arabic traditions the medieval Persian soldiers invented the kebabs by grilling meat over open field fires, using their swords. Famous traveler, Marco Polo recalls that kebabs were served during the Delhi Sultanate and was enjoyed by the royalty and commoners alike. Some of the famous Kebabs are Boti Kebab, Shami Kebab, Kathi Kebab etc.
Another Mughlai cuisine, Nihari, which was prepared in the royal kitchens of the Mughals for breakfast is now a popular dish among the people of all the classes.
Biryani, a meat based dish was a favorite of the Mughal emperors and is enjoyed all over India today.