Lahorites embrace seasonal culinary pleasures

Citizens turn to hearty dishes and warm beverages to beat the cold

LAHORE:

As winter tightens its grip, it doesn't just bring a chill in the air but also a shift in food preferences.

In Lahore, a city known for its vibrant food culture, the arrival of winter is marked by a noticeable uptick in the consumption of hot beverages and hearty meals.

Lahorites celebrate the season by indulging in culinary delights that not only combat the cold but also elevate the joy of the season.

Among the must-haves in winter is the ever-popular Kashmiri tea. Its unique pink hue, creamy texture, and the addition of dry fruits like pistachios and almonds make it a winter staple.

Loved for its rich flavour and nutritional benefits, Kashmiri tea graces everything from casual gatherings to grand weddings. Equally cherished is lemongrass tea, known for its soothing aroma and health benefits.

Infused with cinnamon and cardamom, this tea warms the body while offering antioxidants and vitamin C, enhancing immunity during the chilly months.

Winter in Lahore also brings a renewed enthusiasm for traditional foods.

Lakshmi Chowk, along with areas like Township, Model Town, and the historic streets of the old city, transforms into a hub of steaming delights.

Carrot halwa, a quintessential winter dessert, becomes a citywide favourite, enticing food lovers with its aromatic sweetness and rich vitamins that help fend off the cold.

Fish also takes centre stage during the colder months, appreciated not only for its taste but also for its nutritional value, particularly its selenium content, which bolsters the immune system.

Complementing these mainstays are peanuts and an array of dry fruits like figs, cashews, and almonds, which are widely consumed for their energy-boosting properties.

For those seeking more indulgent dishes, paya emerges as a winter classic. This slow-cooked delicacy, rich in marrow and full of flavour, provides warmth and nourishment during frosty mornings. Soups, whether chicken, mutton, or vegetable-based, complete the seasonal menu.

Not only are they comforting, but they also aid digestion and provide a wholesome warmth to the body.

Winter foods are not just sustenance but a source of pleasure and cultural pride for the citizens of Lahore.

Ahmed Ali, a resident, shared his fondness for Kashmiri tea: "Sipping Kashmiri tea on a cold evening is a unique pleasure. When garnished with pistachios and almonds, it becomes a truly delightful treat."

Jameel Khan praised lemongrass tea for its dual benefits, saying, "It's more than a drink—it's a remedy. Its warmth and ingredients like cinnamon protect against the cold while enhancing immunity."

For dessert lovers, carrot halwa holds a special place.

Saira Baig from Model Town said, "Carrot halwa is the ultimate winter indulgence. Its rich flavor and essential vitamins make it irresistible and comforting."

The appreciation for paya was expressed by Rashid Ahmed of Karim Park: "Paya is a winter tradition. Its taste is unmatched, and it provides energy that makes you forget the biting cold."

Fish, too, is a highlight of Lahore's winter streets. Imran Khan from Liaquatabad noted, "The joy of eating fish in winter is unparalleled. It's delicious, energising, and packed with nutrients that keep you going."

Soup remains another favourite among Lahoris. Shazia Rana summed it up, saying, "A warm bowl of vegetable soup is a winter essential. It not only warms you up but also calms the mind and body."

In Lahore, winter is not just a season but a time to revel in the city's rich culinary traditions, where each dish and drink adds to the warmth of the community and the joy of the season.