Delhi

A Historic Food Capital Blending Mughal, Punjabi & Street Influences

Delhi’s cuisine reflects centuries of Mughal rule, Punjabi migration, and vibrant street food culture. It ranges from royal kebabs to everyday snacks.

How Geography Shapes Food

Zone Climate Food Influence
Northern Plains Semi-arid Wheat, dairy, meat-based foods

Urbanisation created a multicultural food scene.

Historical Roots

Era Culinary Influence
Sultanate & Mughal Periods Kebabs, biryanis, kormas
Post-Partition Migration Punjabi dishes
Modern Delhi Street food and global flavours

Delhi became a melting pot of Indian cuisines.

Core Ingredients

Wheat, Paneer, Ghee, Butter, Lentils, Meat, Yoghurt, Spices, Chickpeas

Signature Dishes

Butter Chicken, symbolic Delhi dish
Nihari, slow-cooked Mughal breakfast
Chole Bhature, Punjabi influence
Paranthas from Chandni Chowk
Kebabs from Old Delhi traditions

Festival & Ritual Foods

Diwali: sweets, snacks
Eid: biryani, kebabs
Lohri: jaggery and sesame dishes

Health & Ayurvedic Relevance

Wheat supports sustained energy
Ghee (good fat) provides warmth
Yoghurt balances spice and digestion