Srinagar, Mar 18: For the record, Biryani has humbled Harissa to emerge as a clear favorite among foodies in Srinagar this winter.
Contrary to the popular belief that Harissa is the most consumed delicacy in Kashmir during winter, Biryani has emerged as the clear favorite among foodies in the capital city.
Between November and February, Gatoes, a Srinagar-based food ordering and delivery company, received 4,126 orders for Biryani (both chicken and mutton), surpassing Harissa, which saw 3,199 orders.
Tandoori Chicken also ranked high in winter food preferences, with 3,957 orders, while Shawarma, a Middle Eastern delicacy, was ordered 3,441 times during the same period.
As per the food delivery company, on average Harissa has been ordered 500 grams per individual. Biryani too has been ordered in bigger quantities during the winter.
Danish Majeed, Chief Financial Officer of Gatoes, told The Kashmir Monitor that Biryani’s popularity stems from its affordability and versatility.
“Biryani is a budget-friendly option and is consumed during both lunch and dinner, making it the top choice for Kashmiris in winter,” he explained.
Harissa, a traditional Kashmiri dish, widely consumed during the winter months has become immensely popular across the country soon after the emergence of social media. Apart from the emergence of local food outlets in the valley serving this delicacy, Harissa has transcended boundaries and is being served by restaurants stationed outside Kashmir, particularly in New Delhi.
Harissa is made with slow-cooked mutton, blended with rice and spices, and enriched with ghee, it has a smooth, paste-like texture and is known for its rich flavor and warmth.
Biryani on the other hand is a non-local dish for Kashmiris and is mostly popular in Hyderabad and New Delhi.
Local restaurants also claimed that Biryani has become the most consumed food in Kashmir for its economical nature and flavors.
“While Harissa remains a traditional winter delicacy, more and more Kashmiris opt for diverse and easily available food choices. Biryani, which is available in many flavors like Hyderabadi Dum Biryani, Muradabadi Biryani, and New Delhi Biryani is becoming immensely popular in Kashmir. Almost every restaurant makes this dish knowing that they will receive a good number of customers throughout the day,” said Rayeed Ahmad, a restaurant owner.