Succulent kebabs, spicy curries and flavourful biryanis– food, especially mutton delicacies form the core of the festival of Eid-Al-Adha or Bakra Eid being celebrated across the country on Saturday.
Muslims celebrate Eid-ul-Azha in honour of Prophet Ibrahim, who was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail to please Allah. According to belief, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram just as Ibrahim was about to sacrifice him.
On the day of the festival, after offering prayers, the customary sacrificing of animals takes place. The meat is then split into three equal parts – for own consumption, for relatives, friends, and for the poor.
The celebrations usually continue for at least a week as different dishes are prepared at home everyday and friends especially non-Muslims are called over for a feast.
Here are the top five dishes that you must try to get into the festive spirit:
Deep liver fry curry:
On the first day of the festival, it is customary in many Muslim households to prepare a dish consisting of the sacrificed goat’s liver. Liver fry and liver curry are the preferred choice and are eaten with khameeri rotis – round fluffy breads made of flour.
Mutton Kebabs:
There are many varieties, including kakori, shami, galouti and the ubiquitous seekh kebabs. These are to be eaten with soft rumali rotis and mint chutney with onions. And instead of the famed Old Delhi restaurants, try the kiosks and push carts opposite Jama Masjid that have mastered the art of making all types of kebabs.
Mutton Nahari:
Hands down, this is one of the best mutton dishes that you can have in Old Delhi and there is no dearth of iconic eateries around Jama Masjid that have been serving this dish for generations right from Kallu Nihari to Haji Shabrati Nihariwale. However, don’t forget to top your bowl of spicy nahari with chopped green chillies and ginger julienne.
Mutton Korma:
The quintessential Mughlai fare is a must have on Eid along with Khameeri rotis. Al-Jawahar and Kareem’s near Jama Masjid and Jahangeer in Darya Ganj are your best bet for a bowl of lip smacking mutton korma.
Mutton Biryani:
Different hues of saffron, red and white, the aroma of a varied mix of spices and rose water coupled with tender pieces of mutton hidden beneath a layer of flavourful basmati rice. A well-prepared biryani can easily bring your gastromonic journey to a logical end. Dil Pasand biryani near Jama Masjid is highly recommended!
So, make most of your weekend and plan a visit to the walled city for a Saturday night dinner or a Sunday brunch!