The Breakfast Trail: Must-Try Morning Delights of Lucknow
Lucknow, the City of Nawabs, is celebrated for its culinary heritage, and its breakfast offerings are no exception. From rich and flavorful dishes to lighter treats, mornings in Lucknow are a gastronomic adventure that showcases the city’s love for tradition and taste. Here’s a guide to the must-try breakfast delights that will leave you craving more.
1. Nihari and Kulcha: A Regal Start
No breakfast in Lucknow is complete without the iconic pairing of Nihari and Kulcha.
- Nihari: A slow-cooked stew made with tender mutton or beef, infused with aromatic spices and cooked overnight for a rich, velvety texture.
- Kulcha: Soft, flaky bread that perfectly complements the robust flavors of Nihari.
Where to Try: Chowk and Aminabad are hotspots for authentic Nihari and Kulcha, with local eateries like Rahim’s being legendary for this dish.
2. Poori and Sabzi: A Classic Combination
For a more traditional North Indian breakfast, Poori and Sabzi is a popular choice.
- Poori: Deep-fried golden bread made from wheat flour.
- Sabzi: A spicy and tangy potato curry often accompanied by a side of sweet and sour pumpkin curry (kaddu ki sabzi).
Where to Try: Bajpai Kachori Bhandar in Hazratganj serves a flavorful rendition of this breakfast staple.
3. Sheermal: Sweet Bread with a Nawabi Twist
Sheermal is a mildly sweet saffron-flavored bread that is soft and buttery, making it a perfect breakfast treat. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with kebabs for a heartier start to the day.
Where to Try: Sheermal from Chowk’s traditional bakeries is a must-try.
4. Makkhan Malai: A Winter Morning Delicacy
If you visit Lucknow in winter, don’t miss Makkhan Malai, a cloud-like dessert made from churned milk, cream, and saffron, garnished with nuts and rose petals. This frothy delight melts in your mouth, offering a unique and refreshing morning indulgence.
Where to Try: Street vendors in Chowk and Aminabad prepare the best Makkhan Malai.
5. Chai and Bun Maska: A Simple Pleasure
For a lighter start to the day, chai paired with bun maska (buttered bun) is a comforting and satisfying option. Add a sprinkle of sugar to the bun for a sweet touch, or dip it into your steaming cup of tea for a burst of nostalgia.
Where to Try: Hazratganj is dotted with tea stalls offering this simple yet delightful breakfast.
6. Khasta Kachori and Jalebi: The Sweet and Savory Duo
A quintessential Lucknow breakfast, Khasta Kachori is a crispy, flaky pastry filled with spiced lentils, served with a tangy aloo sabzi. Pair it with hot, syrupy Jalebis for the perfect balance of savory and sweet.
Where to Try: Ram Asrey in Aminabad is famous for this classic breakfast combination.
7. Malai Gilori: A Nawabi Delight
Malai Gilori, also known as Balai Ki Gilori, is a delicate sweet made from layers of cream, stuffed with nuts, and lightly flavored with cardamom. This melt-in-your-mouth treat is a tribute to Lucknow’s culinary finesse.
Where to Try: Ram Asrey Sweets in Hazratganj is the go-to place for this Nawabi delight.
The Lucknow Breakfast Experience
Breakfast in Lucknow is more than a meal—it’s a cultural journey that reflects the city’s rich history and culinary passion. Whether you’re indulging in hearty Nihari or savoring a delicate Malai Gilori, each dish tells a story of the city’s Nawabi past and its enduring love for good food.
Start your day in Lucknow with these morning delights and discover why this city is truly a food lover’s paradise.
