Move over Biryani, Try these 5 Things to Eat in Hyderabad

When you think of Hyderabad you automatically think of biryani, but we at Things2do think it’s time to change that. The largest state in Telangana, Hyderabad is a place where culinary legacy thrives and it’s just not fair to limit the deliciousness to just biryani, no matter how good it is. So here are 5 lip-smacking dishes which are just as good, if not better than the legendary Hyderabadi biryani! 

1A Hyderabadi Classic-Hyderabadi Haleem

Haleem is a well-known Iftaar delicacy that has its roots in the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent. This satisfying street snack is found in many street markets in and around Hyderabad – the mushy texture of meat and lentils along with flavours from ghee and species makes it just ideal for a winter or rainy day! In the ancient days, haleem would be hand pounded, however, now you can find hand mixers blending the lentils, wheat, barley, meat and spices like saffron, pepper and cinnamon into a paste-like consistency. It takes at least about 6 hours to finish the cooking process of haleem. A classic Hyderabadi haleem, like many other dishes from the region, is topped with dried fruits like pistachio, cashew, fig, and almond for that royal rich flavour. 

Best Places to try Haleem in Hyderabad Sarvi; Pista House; Cafe 555; Shah Ghouse; Grand Hotel

2Uniquely Hyderabadi – Patthar ka Gosht

One of the most beloved, traditional Hyderabadi foods is Pathar ka Gosht, which has gained a lot of fans throughout the years. It is a classic mutton dish in which the meat is marinated for several hours, often even overnight, and then cooked slowly over coals on a hot granite stone. It is this unique cooking style that gives it its name and makes Patthar Ka Gosht, such a stand-out dish! Here is the origin story of this delicious treat – The Nizam Asaf Jahi VI is said to have gone hunting in the forests frequently in the late nineteenth century. On one such trip, his bawarchis forgot to bring the skewers and shikanjas needed to prepare kababs and instead cooked mutton on a flat granite stone heated from below by firewood. The Nizam grew fond of the dish, and the recipe was repeated numerous times in the royal kitchens. More than a century later, the dish is still very popular in many parts of the city. Many visitors flock to their favourite Patthar Ka Gosht stalls at the exhibition grounds, especially during Numaish, Hyderabad’s annual exhibition. During Ramzan, many stalls in the old city prepare Patthar Ke Gosht, which is a big hit with foodies. Patthar Ka Gosht was and still is one of the best things to eat in Hyderabad. 

Best Places to try Patthar ka Gosht in Hyderabad Al Rahaman Patthar Ka Gosht; Al Farooj Sonu Kabab; Shahi Dastarkhwan; Chicha’s

3Not for the Faint-Hearted-Malai Paya

If you’re a meat lover, you’ve already heard of paya, but do you know about Hyderabad’s special Malai Paya? The dish which literally translates as ‘creamy mutton legs’ is a dish made of goat trotters and is usually served with Naan bread. It has a delicious blend of spices, meat and herbs, which is a treat to your taste buds. This dish is extremely popular in the old city and is relished by people from all across the city. While it is mostly found on wedding dawaat menus, you can still find a few places that serve this. We’re not saying you skip Hyderabadi Biryani, but if you’re thinking about the most unique and best things to eat in Hyderabad – you’ve got to try this dish too. 

Best Place to try Malai Paya in Hyderabad Hotel Nayaab

4Sweet Decadence-Qubani ka Meetha

Apricots or anjeer are an acquired taste for many, but that’s only till they have tried the Hyderabad version of preparing it. Made from apricots, Qubani ka meetha is a common feature in Hyderabadi weddings now, but that was not the case earlier. Because it was not a native fruit at the time, only the royals were wealthy enough to import the fruit and turn it into a dessert. It dates back to the founder of the Mughal Dynasty, Babur, who is said to have brought this dish to India. Full of sweetness and delicious texture, one bite will surely make sure you dig in for the next of this famous Hyderabadi sweet dish.

Best Places to Try Qubani ka Meetha in Hyderabad: Cafe Bahar; Chicha’s; Hotel Shadaab; Meetha Miya

5Hyderabad’s Own Samosa-Lukhmi

Lukhmi is a traditional minced savoury dish usually eaten as a starter in Hyderabad, Telangana, India. It is a regional variant of samosa. The authentic preparation of the snack includes stuffing with mutton-mince keema. This dish is a popular dish for Hyderabad weddings, but it is also suitable for a quick pairing with your evening tea. Lukhmi is derived from the Urdu word luqma, which means a small bite. Lukhmi, unlike samosas, is a flat square flour packet with a flaky, crispy top crust that is usually filled with beef or mutton-based stuffing. Some cafes also sell snacks in other shapes, such as triangles. There is also a vegetarian version, which is usually stuffed with potatoes. The flour is kneaded with yoghurt, butter, and a small amount of water to make the lukhmi. If you are in the city and haven’t tried Lukhmi, you are surely missing out on one of the best things to eat in Hyderabad. 

Best Places to try Lukhmi in Hyderabad Hotel Shaadab; Hotel Rumaan; Pista House; Paradise; Rio Hotel; Shah Ghouse

So whether you’re already in Hyderabad or are planning a trip to the city soon, you’ve got to check out all of these 5 things to eat in Hyderabad recommended by Things2do. If you’re looking for more exciting Thing2doinHyderabad, go follow our Instagram and stay in tune with all the happenings in the city! 

by Sreeja Maitra

Content Writer at Things2do