Wazwan
Wazwan: Wazwaan is a traditional feast of the Kashmiri cuisine that is served at special occasions such as weddings, religious festivals, and other significant events. It is a grand feast that comprises of a variety of dishes, mainly meat-based, served in a large copper plate called a traem.
History
The word Wazwaan is derived from the Urdu word “Wazan,” which means weight. The term Wazwaan refers to the weight of the food that is served in the feast. The Wazwan is considered a symbol of Kashmiri hospitality and is an essential part of the region’s cultural heritage.
The Wazwaan feast consists of up to thirty-two dishes, with the number of dishes varying depending on the occasion and the number of guests. The feast is traditionally served by a group of skilled chefs called Wazas, who prepare the dishes with great care and precision.
The centerpiece of the Wazwaan feast is the Goshtaba, a meatball dish made from minced lamb meat, spices, and yogurt. The meatballs are cooked in a rich yogurt-based gravy and are usually served as the first dish of the feast.
Culture
Other popular dishes that are served in the Wazwaan feast include Rogan Josh, a spicy lamb curry, Rista, a meatball dish made from mutton, and Tabak Maaz, a dish made from lamb ribs that are cooked in milk and spices until tender. The dishes are typically rich in flavor and spices and are cooked slowly over low heat to achieve the perfect texture and taste.
The Wazwaan feast is served on a large copper plate called a traem, which can accommodate up to four people. The traem is placed on a low stool, and the guests sit around it on the floor. The food is served in small portions, and the guests eat with their right hand, as per Kashmiri tradition.
More
The Wazwaan feast is not just about the food but also about the whole experience. The guests are treated with great respect and hospitality, and the feast is accompanied by live music and singing. The atmosphere is lively and joyous, with the guests enjoying the food and the company of their loved ones.
In recent times, the Wazwaan feast has gained popularity beyond Kashmir, and many restaurants and hotels have started offering it to their guests. However, the traditional Wazwaan feast remains a unique and special experience that can only be found in Kashmir.
In conclusion, the Wazwaan feast is an essential part of Kashmiri cuisine and culture. It is a grand feast that represents the region’s hospitality and is served on special occasions. The Wazwaan feast is an experience that combines great food, music, and hospitality, and is a must-try for anyone visiting Kashmir.
Wazwan Thirty-Two Dishes List
The Wazwan feast typically consists of up to thirty-two dishes, although the number of dishes can vary depending on the occasion and the number of guests. The following are some of the most popular dishes that are traditionally served in the Wazwaan feast:
- Goshtaba – meatballs made from minced lamb meat and yogurt, served in a yogurt-based gravy
- Rista – meatballs made from mutton and cooked in a spicy tomato-based gravy
- Rogan Josh – a spicy lamb curry
- Tabak Maaz – lamb ribs cooked in milk and spices until turned tender
- Daniwal Korma – a lamb curry made with yogurt, coriander, and ginger
- Aab Gosh – a lamb curry made with milk and spices
- Marchwangan Korma – a spicy lamb curry made with red chili peppers
- Shab Deg – a lamb curry made with turnips and spices
- Palak Rista – meatballs made from mutton and served in a spinach-based gravy
- Nadru Yakhni – lotus stem cooked in a yogurt-based gravy
- Dum Aloo – whole potatoes cooked in a rich tomato-based gravy
- Chaman – paneer (cottage cheese) cooked in a tomato-based gravy
- Haakh – a Kashmiri spinach dish that is cooked with mustard oil and spices
- Modur Pulav – a sweet rice dish made with saffron, raisins, and nuts
- Kabargah – fried lamb ribs
- Gushtaba Shorba – a clear lamb broth
- Methi Chaman – paneer cooked in a fenugreek-based gravy
- Muji Chetin – radish served with a yogurt dip
- Dhungar – smoked mutton served with naan bread
- Sheer Chai – a sweet tea made with milk and saffron
- Kahwah – a traditional Kashmiri green tea with saffron and almonds
- Kulcha – a type of bread made with refined flour
- Tchaman Pulaav – a rice dish made with paneer, nuts, and saffron
- Nadru Palak – lotus stem cooked with spinach and spices
- Nadru Yakhni – lotus stem cooked in a yogurt-based gravy
- Mitha Bhaat – sweet rice made with sugar, saffron, and nuts
- Badaam Tikki – a sweet made from almonds and sugar
- Qahwa – a sweet, aromatic tea
- Firni – a sweet pudding made from ground rice, milk, and sugar
- Kheer – a sweet rice pudding
- Kulfi – a traditional Indian ice cream made from milk and sugar
- Phirni – a sweet, creamy dessert made from ground rice and milk.
Also Read: Kashmiri Food Culture
ALSO READ: Kashmiri Street Foods A Must-Try
