Demand for winter delights surges

People chill out on cold nights enjoying fried fish, chicken soup, gajar ka halwa

HYDERABAD:

The sale of winter delights, especially fried delicacies, has seen a notable surge during the winter season. Fried food outlets are experiencing a considerable influx of customers as the harsh winter sets in.

With the onset of winter, the demand for fish, a perennial winter favorite, has witnessed a manifold increase. Fish outlets across various areas in Hyderabad are bustling with customers, ranging from men, women, to children. These individuals flock to these establishments to savor the warmth of fried fish, a dish beloved by many but gaining heightened popularity in the winter months.

Stalls are offering a variety of fish, including Simon, Pamphlet, and Black Raho, catering to the diverse tastes of the customers.

People are now relishing traditional local winter treats such as Doodh Jalebi, Gajar ka Halwa, chicken corn soup, Kashmiri tea, fried fish, samosas, pakoras, vegetable rolls, hot coffee, and other items currently in high demand. Gajar ka Halwa, a sweet dish crafted from grated carrots, milk, cooking oil, and garnished with dry fruits, topped with evaporated milk solids, stands out as a winter favorite.

Read Demand for winter delicacies spikes

The popularity of chicken corn soup has soared, becoming a sought-after choice, especially during the colder months.

Health experts caution against excessive consumption of fried items, emphasizing potential harm to human health. Unfortunately, substandard food is openly available in various markets across Hyderabad, largely due to a lack of appropriate action by authorities.

Numerous stalls and shops in different localities are selling traditional fried food in an unhygienic manner. Stallholders and shopkeepers are neglecting hygienic regulations, posing a threat to human health, particularly that of children. Shockingly, some shopkeepers openly prepare and cook these traditional food items in substandard cooking oil on main roads, flouting regulations set by concerned departments.

Citizens have raised concerns about the lack of adherence to cleanliness and safety standards at restaurants and fast food outlets. Consequently, there is a growing demand for strict action against those jeopardising the health of the public.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 28^th, 2023.