Hyderabad- the "City of Pearls," is renowned for its rich history, architectural wonders, and delectable cuisine. While Hyderabadi fare is often associated with rich curries and flavourful kebabs, vegetarians need not despair!
The city offers a vibrant tapestry of vegetarian dishes that are as flavourful and enticing as their non-vegetarian counterparts.
This fiery red chilli pepper curry forms the cornerstone of a Hyderabadi meal. Don't be intimidated by the colour – the base is roasted green chillies, slow-cooked with peanuts, sesame seeds, and a touch of tamarind. The result is a tangy, nutty, and surprisingly mild curry that pairs beautifully with fluffy rice or crispy samosas. A squeeze of fresh lime adds a refreshing touch, making it the perfect accompaniment to a hot summer day.
This dish translates to "brinjal cooked with a special fragrant tempering." Eggplants, a staple in Indian cuisine, take centre stage here. Deep-fried or roasted until tender, they are bathed in a rich tomato and onion gravy. The magic lies in the "baghaar" – a fragrant tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and dried red chillies that infuse the dish with its unique aroma. Bhagare Baingan is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for casual lunches and celebratory dinners.
This South Indian staple finds a warm welcome in Hyderabad. Thin, crispy crepes made from fermented rice and lentil batter, dosas offer a blank canvas for endless flavour combinations. The Masala Dosa is stuffed with a spicy potato filling. But for a truly Hyderabadi experience, try the "Chettinad Dosa," a fiery version with lentil and vegetable stuffing. For a lighter option, the "Plain Dosa" served with a dollop of coconut chutney and a fiery sambar is the perfect way to start your day.
Vegetarians, rejoice! Hyderabad's iconic Biryani tradition extends to a delectable vegetarian version. Layers of fragrant basmati rice are cooked "dum pukht" – a slow-cooking method that seals in the flavours- along with vegetables like carrots, peas, cauliflower, and green beans. The rice is infused with saffron, cloves, cardamom, and other aromatic spices, resulting in a dish that is both visually stunning and bursting with flavour. Served with cooling raita (yoghurt dip) and a side of salad (gravy), Hyderabadi Dum Pukht Biryani is a feast for the senses.
This tangy and spicy chutney is a true Hyderabadi speciality. Made with gongura (sorrel leaves), peanuts, and spices, it offers a unique flavour profile that is both sour and savoury. Gongura Pachadi adds a delightful zing to any dish- pair it with fluffy rice or crispy dosas, or even use it as a dip for samosas. A dash of this chutney can instantly transform a simple meal into a Hyderabadi culinary experience.
This delightful street food snack is a vegetarian's delight. Fluffy lentil dumplings – vadas – are soaked in creamy yoghurt (dahi) and drizzled with a sweet tangy chutney. The contrast of textures and flavours is simply irresistible. The yoghurt balances the spice of the chutney, making Dahi Vada a perfect afternoon pick-me-up or a light and refreshing side dish.
These are just a taste of the many vegetarian delights that Hyderabad has to offer. From fiery curries to comforting stews- the city's culinary scene caters to every palate. So, on your next trip to the City of Pearls, venture beyond the kebabs and biryanis and embark on a delicious journey into the world of Hyderabadi vegetarian cuisine – you won't be disappointed!
