Ladakh, a picturesque area nestled within the vast Himalayan peaks, is a one-stop destination for a fantastic family holiday. In this blog, you’ll know about the 8 Ladakh famous food you should try. Whether you want to enjoy the snow and snow-related activities, or whether you want adventure and tranquillity, Ladakh has a lot to offer. The region is recognized not just for its beautiful snowscapes and exquisite monasteries, but also for its distinct mixture of local traditional food, which is a robust mix of Tibetan, Chinese, Continental, and Korean delicacies.
As the saying goes, no vacation is complete unless you indulge in some real local Ladakh food. With that in mind, here are some of the greatest (and maybe lesser-known) Ladakhi recipes for you to try.
(We won’t even mention Momos because everyone knows that Momos are, without a doubt, one of the most popular dishes in Ladakh). However, there are a few surprising ones below who made into this list of the Food of Ladakh.
Related: 15 Authentic Kashmiri Food You Need to Try at least once
8 Ladakh Famous Food to Try!
1. Skyu
One of Ladakh’s best traditional recipes that is soup-based, Skyu is a stew made of barley or wheat dough kneaded into thumb-sized flattened balls. This mouth-watering dish is slowly cooked with root vegetables in water and is often prepared in cold winter months to give some warmth. Skyu is a staple dish of Ladakh and the best to try it is at the Summer Harvest Restaurant.
2. Chutagi
Chutagi is the Ladakh famous food. It is a well-known pasta dish with a thick vegetable-based sauce. This is one of Ladakh’s signature dishes, and every local restaurant in Leh has its own secret Chutagi recipe. This meal is usually comprised of dough paste, local green vegetables, potatoes, carrots, and peas, although a non-vegetarian variation with meat is also popular. You can have some excellent Chutagi at Alchi Kitchen.
3. Tingmo
Tingmo is a soft, fluffy bun-shaped bread made of wheat flour and steamed before being served with veggies, meat, and dal. It is a basic food item for the inhabitants of Ladakh, and it may be taken at all three meals of the day. It is available at nearly every restaurant in Ladakh.
4. Ladakhi Pulao
Ladakhi Pulao is the Ladakh famous food. When compared to other Kashmiri or Lucknowi versions, Ladakhi Pulao appears mild; yet, it does not lack in flavour. In fact, it takes you by surprise. White rice steeped in fragrant spices and mutton stock, topped with caramelised onions, carrots, and almonds, is a delectable dish.
5. Khambir
Khambir is the best Ladakh food. Locals prefer this traditional bread with butter tea and a pinch of salt. The unique taste of butter tea with a loaf of Khambir is the best thing you will ask for in Leh Ladakh. One of the best places to try Khambir is The Tibetan Kitchen.
6. Chhurpe
Chhurpe is a type of cheese created from yak milk. This cheese is widely accessible across the region and is consumed both alone and in dishes such as Thukpa and Momos to add flavour. There are two types of Chhurpe: soft and hard. If you’re interested about the flavour, it’s comparable to Italian ricotta.
7. Butter tea
Butter tea is the best Ladakh food. Also known as Gur Gur Chai in Ladakh and Tsaza is Tibetan, butter tea is a traditional pinkish beverage served during weddings and other special occasions. This salty drink is an absolutely essential recipe to try on your trip as it provides your body with some extra insulation against the harsh, cold climate of Ladakh.
8. Apricot Jam
Apricot Jam is the best Ladakh food. Ending on a sweet note, Apricot (or chulli in local language) is the most popular locally grown fruit in the region. Several products are made from this fruit but Apricot is a delicacy that you cannot miss to taste. You can have it with khambir or bread and enjoy this unique taste as you say your goodbyes to the place.
Restaurants in Ladakh
Let us also recommend some of the best restaurants in Ladakh where you can indulge in the tastiest Ladakhi food.
1. Lamayuru Restaurant, for tasty Indian food
2. Himalaya Café, for delicious traditional dishes at affordable price
3. Tenzin Dickey Tibetan Restaurant, for the best momos and thukpa in town
4. Sky Wok Ladakh, for the best rooftop view of the Main Bazaar
5. Wanderers Terrace and Café, for a great view and some yummy Skyu
Must Read: Top 7 Things To Do In Kashmir That You Can’t Miss
FAQs
What is the cultural food of Ladakh?
Ladakh has had several cultural influences on it, and therefore, 100s of unique recipes have stayed and left the culture of this place. However, Skyu, among other many recipes, is one of the most prominent traditional dishes of Ladakh.
What is the famous food of Leh?
Just like many other states and cities in India, Leh shares a border with China, and therefore, it has its own version of famous dumplings. And so, Momos and Chhurpe are extremely famous in Leh.
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