Pakistan is known for its rich and diverse cuisine, with a wide variety of dishes that reflect the country’s cultural heritage and geographical regions. No matter where you go, each person will say that the food from where they are from is the most superior. Truth to be told, its hard to find really bad food in Pakistan. The food of course may be very different to where you are from and it might have higher levels of oil and spice, but it’s worth trying a little bit of everything. We always ensure our clients trips have as much diversity (where possible of course) so that they get to taste as much of Pakistan as possible. Here are the top ten food dishes that are a must-try when visiting Pakistan:

Biryani is possibly the popular favourite in Pakistan
  • Biryani: A popular dish made with rice, meat, and spices. It is a staple in Pakistani cuisine and can be found in various regional variations.
Can be particularly hot at both ends!!
  • Karahi: A traditional Pakistani dish made with meat (usually chicken or mutton), tomatoes, and spices. It is cooked in a karahi, a type of wok-like vessel, and is typically served with naan or roti.
Kofta is a good challenge to any Italian Meatball dish
  • Kofta: A dish made of meatballs, usually beef or lamb, that are cooked in a flavorful sauce.
Be careful with the bones as many can be left inside!
  • Lahori Fried Fish: A dish from Lahore city, made of fish that is marinated in spices and then deep-fried. It is often served with chutney or raita.
Tender and delicious, great with Naan
  • Seekh Kebab: A popular street food made of minced meat that is mixed with spices and grilled on skewers.
Thick and mouthwatering but heavy on the stomach
  • Nihari: A hearty stew made of beef or lamb and slow-cooked for several hours. It is typically served with naan or roti.
Qeema is bloody delicious and melts in your mouth. Quite fatty but perfect power for trekking!
  • Qeema: A dish made of minced meat, usually beef or lamb, that is cooked with spices and onions. It is often served with naan or roti.
Vegetarians favourite and goes well with every dish. Can be had as main or a side!
  • Saag: A dish made of spinach and other greens, cooked with spices and served with naan or roti.
Dahi Balla, unusual to look at but pure pleasure on the mouth!
  • Dahi Bhalla: A popular street food made of fried lentil dumplings that are soaked in yogurt and topped with tamarind and mint chutney.
Gulab Jamun is sort of like a dough ball that is soaked in golden syrup…
  • Gulab Jamun: A popular dessert made of deep-fried dough balls that are soaked in a sweet syrup.

These are just a few of the many delicious dishes that Pakistan has to offer. The country’s cuisine is a true reflection of its culture and history, with a rich blend of spices, flavors and techniques. Whether you’re looking for a hearty stew, a spicy kebab, or a sweet dessert, Pakistan has something to offer for everyone’s taste. However, your stomach may not be accustomed to the different types of bacteria that can be present and stomach cramps and food poisoning are not uncommon. The ground operators we work with use only the finest restaurants. This might often mean we do regular visits and checks to minimise the possibility of our clients or their clients getting ill whilst on a group tour through Pakistan.