Top 19 Mughlai Dishes that Every Food Lover Must Try Once

Mughlai Food

The Mughlai food became a part of the profusion of Indian foods as early as the 15th century AD. It was introduced to the people of India by the Mughal emperors and has since caught on to become a part of mainstream Indian cuisine. The speciality of Mughlai food is that it is cooked with a range of aromatic spices, nuts, and dried fruits, is nutrient-rich and is also extremely satisfying to the palette.

Popularity of Mughlai Food in India

Mughlai food has become such an integral part of the Indian diet that it is now found in several parts of states in the country, such as Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh. You will find this cuisine being offered at all major restaurants and even at local street vendors across the country. Moreover, with its butter-based curries and highly flavoursome sauces, this cuisine has even become an iconic part of Indian cuisine available worldwide.

Let’s take a look at the 19 dishes that make Mughlai cuisine so popular in India as well as the rest of the world:

• Chicken Korma
• Nalli Nihari
• Murgh Malai Kebab
• Mutton Seekh Kebab
• Mughlai Paratha
• Nargisi Kofta
• Galouti Kebab
• Biryani
• Rogan Josh
• Shahi Tukda
• Mughlai Pulao
• Roghni Naan
• Mutton Kadai
• Akbari Daal
• Shami Kebab
• Butter Chicken
• Murgh Musallam
• Pasanda
• Chapli Kebab
  
  

Chicken Korma

Interestingly enough, the Qorma originated from Persia and was adopted by the Rajput chefs in Akbar’s kitchen. Since then, it has been known as Korma, named after the Rajput tribe Kurma, and has become a part of Indian Mughlai cuisine.

This Mughlai dish is one of the most sought-after when it comes to traditional Mughlai food because of its indulgence in whole spices, yoghurt and nuts. It is essentially pieces of succulent chicken doused in rich and creamy gravy.

Nalli Nihari

The term Nihari comes from the Arabic word Nahar, which means morning. The dish got this peculiar name because it was consumed by Mughal emperors after their morning prayers. It is made with pieces of mutton meat and bones stuffed with soft juicy bone marrow. This dish is considered the most appetizing one in the popular Mughlai cuisine and can only be enjoyed when cooked using its traditional recipe.

Murgh Malai Kebab

Kebabs travelled from Turkey to India during the end of the 14th century and the Murgh Malai Kebab was considered one of the many culinary feats of the Mughal Empire. It is made with well-marinated chunks of boneless chicken skewered and cooked over an open flame. This Mughlai food is made best with its age-old recipe and is available in Club Mahindra restaurants across India.

Mutton Seekh Kebab

Probably the most popular appetizers in Indian Mughlai cuisine, the Mutton Seekh Kebab is typically made with minced mutton meat shaped into sausages on skewers. These skewers are then cooked over an open flame. This spicy and tangy kebab is a treat for people of all ages and is best consumed sizzling hot.

Mughlai Paratha

The Mughlai Paratha is one of the many Mughlai foods that have been transformed into a form of popular street food across the country. This popular fast food is a thick stuffed Indian flatbread made of refined flour. 

It is usually stuffed with a mix of vegetables like onions and tomatoes, herbs like coriander and minced meat. It is available not just at the roadside fast food stalls but also at Club Mahindra resorts across India.

Nargisi Kofta

While the Nargisi Kofta may have some disputed origins, it has become part of a Mughlai chef’s arsenal in India. This dish is made by coating boiled eggs with compacted minced meat and served in a bowl of rich and creamy authentic Mughlai gravy. The Nargisi Kofta is a traditional Mughlai food that is usually consumed on festive occasions.

Galouti Kebab

This popular Mughali food is said to have been created for a Lucknow Nawab who could not chew his food properly. As a result, these kababs are buttery soft and extremely flavourful. 

Today, the Galouti Kebab is one of the most sought-after street foods in India and is even served at several fine dining establishments. These kebabs can be paired with Mughlai flatbreads like Tandoori Roti, Naan and with Indian flatbreads like Lachha Paratha.

Biryani

This rice and meat dish is the most popular Mughlai food in India, and since the 16th century, it has been adapted into several local variations. The Lucknowi Dum Biryani and the Hyderabadi Biryani are two of the most popular iterations of this classic Mughlai dish. It consists of fine basmati rice, potatoes, pieces of meat and boiled eggs, all slow-cooked in an airtight pot (or handi) and is served steaming hot.

Rogan Josh

The term Rogan Josh is a Persian word that means clarified butter (ghee) cooked in intense heat. It was brought to India by the Mughals and since then has become a staple in Indian cuisine (particularly in North India). It is generally a meat dish that has soft and juicy chunks of mutton floating in a spicy red curry. You can taste this delightfully rich and mesmerisingly flavourful dish at several of the Club Mahindra restaurants across India.

Shahi Tukda

Ending the list with a classic Mughali dessert, the Shahi Tukda consists of perfectly fried slices of bread coated in sweet thickened milk (Rabri), rose water and clotted cream (Malai). It is topped off with an assortment of nuts and dried fruits, making it one of the most tantalising dishes in the popular Mughlai cuisine. You can get a taste of this unique dessert at many of the Club Mahindra resorts in India.

• Mughlai Pulao

Biryani is tasty, but Mughlai Pulao takes it up a notch with extra richness. The difference? Traditionally, long-grain rice is used for Pulao and basmati is used for Biryani. For Pulao, the rice is cooked in a seasoned broth, but in Biryani, cooked rice is layered with meat, veggies, and a flavourful sauce. Also, Pulao has fewer spices compared to a robust and flavourful Biryani.

Today, it is one of the best Mughlai dishes in India. Mughlai Pulao is a top-notch rice dish, perfect for special occasions like Ramadan. With rice, chicken, and spices, it's a mouth-watering treat for you and your loved ones. 

• Roghni Naan

Roghni naan is a popular Indian flatbread known for its unique flavour and texture and a renowned dish of the Indian Mughlai cuisine. Originating from the traditional tandoor ovens, roghni naan is distinguished by its glossy, slightly crispy surface. 

The dough is enriched with yogurt, ghee, and sometimes eggs, imparting a rich and savoury taste. Commonly adorned with nigella seeds, sesame seeds, or chopped coriander, the naan's surface boasts a delightful blend of aromatic spices. 

Typically served alongside various curries or kebabs, roghni naan complements the meal with its soft interior and subtle hints of smokiness. Its versatility and delectable taste make it a cherished staple in Indian cuisine. 

• Mutton Kadai

Mutton Kadai is one of the flavourful Indian Mughlai dishes.  To prepare this dish, tender mutton pieces are cooked in a special wok called a kadai with spices like coriander, cumin, and cardamom, creating a delicious blend. Tomatoes add a rich base, while ginger and garlic give it a zesty kick. 

The Mughals were known for their refined taste and love for opulent and flavourful food, and the Mutton Kadhai represents such Mughlai food.

The kadai method ensures even cooking and a smoky flavour. Topped with fresh coriander, this dish showcases the wonderful taste of Indian cuisine, offering a simple yet delightful experience of spices and textures. 

• Akbari Daal

Akbari Daal is a flavour-packed Indian Mughlai dish that's as delightful as it sounds. Named after the legendary Mughal emperor Akbar, this lentil sensation is a taste adventure. 

Imagine lentils slow-cooked with vibrant spices, tomatoes, and herbs until they become a party in your mouth. Sprinkled with fresh cilantro, it's the superstar of simplicity and taste. Enjoy it with rice or naan for a satisfying meal that's both comforting and rich in tradition. 

Akbari Daal isn't just a dish; it's a delicious to experience the Indian Mughlai food, making every bite a royal treat for your taste buds. 

• Shami Kebab

Get ready for a flavour explosion with one of the best Mughlai dishes, the Shami Kebab. These kebabs are a mix of ground meat, spices, and herbs, cooked to crispy perfection outside and juicy tenderness inside. 

For those who did not know, Shami Kebabs are said to have been created for a toothless Indian Nawab who loved to indulge in food. The cook invented these soft and exquisite kebabs to cater to the Nawab's inability to chew. 

These kebabs are so smooth and delicious that they can be enjoyed without needing teeth. Every bite is a tasty adventure, showcasing the rich tapestry of Mughlai food.

• Butter Chicken

Dive into the creamy goodness of Butter Chicken, a beloved classic in Indian cuisine. Tender chicken meets a velvety tomato and butter sauce, creating a delightful blend of comfort and decadence. Each bite is a celebration of well-balanced spices and a texture party that goes beyond cultural boundaries. 

In the late 1940s, the owner of Delhi's Moti Mahal restaurant, Kundan Lal Gujral, came up with the first butter chicken dish. It had marinated chicken in a creamy tomato sauce with spices like cumin and coriander. This tasty recipe quickly became a must-have in Indian Mughlai cuisine worldwide.

• Murgh Musallam

Experience the regal flavours of Murgh Musallam, a culinary gem rooted in Mughlai traditions. Whole chicken, marinated in flavourful spices, slow-cooked to perfection, offers a tender and aromatic dining experience. The richness of Mughal culinary heritage is evident in every bite, making Murgh Musallam a royal feast for anyone seeking a taste of grandeur.

• Pasanda

Indulge in the luxurious flavours of one of the Indian Mughlai dishes Pasanda, a culinary treasure. It has its roots in the cuisine enjoyed at the Mughal emperors' court. The term is a variation of the Urdu word "pasande," translating to "favourite."

Thin slices of meat soak up a marinade of yogurt and spices, resulting in a tender and flavourful dish. Pasanda is a delightful mix of tastes and textures that stands the test of time, making it a timeless favourite for those who appreciate the art of good food.

• Chapli Kebab

Prepare your taste buds for a treat with Chapli Kebab, a culinary delight straight from the heart of Indian Mughlai cuisine. 
Mughal culinary influences in India led to several kebab dishes, including the Chapli Kebab. The name "chapli" comes from the Pashto word meaning "flat," describing the kebab's light, round, and flattened texture.

These kebabs are a flavourful blend of minced meat, aromatic spices, and herbs, pan-fried to a perfect crispiness. With each bite, you'll experience a burst of savoury goodness and a unique blend of textures.

Cities to Enjoy the Best Mughlai food

There are several cities in India where you can enjoy some of the best Mughlai dishes. These cities have a rich culinary heritage and are known for their Mughlai food. Here are some cities to explore for an authentic Mughlai dining experience:

1. Delhi: Renowned for its Indian Mughlai dishes, especially in Old Delhi, the capital city boasts iconic eateries serving kebabs, biryanis, and kormas. The culinary scene reflects a rich tapestry of flavours, making it a haven for Mughlai food enthusiasts.
2. Lucknow: Known as the city of Nawabs, Lucknow stands out for its legendary kebab joints like Tunday Kebab, showcasing the city's Awadhi cuisine with a strong Mughlai influence. The culinary heritage here is a delectable journey through Mughlai flavours.

 

• Hyderabad: Beyond its famed biryanis, Hyderabad offers a unique fusion of Indian Mughlai cuisine and South Indian flavours. Rich curries and mouth-watering kebabs characterize the city's culinary landscape, creating a delightful gastronomic experience.

• Kolkata: Explore Kolkata's culinary delights with the must-try Mughlai paratha, a popular street food. The city's restaurants offer a diverse array of Indian Mughlai dishes, blending tradition with innovative flavours.

• Bhopal: Known for aromatic kebabs, biryanis, and kormas, Bhopal showcases a Mughlai influence in its local cuisine. The city's gastronomic offerings are a treat for those seeking authentic and flavourful Mughlai food.

• Agra: Home to the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra's Mughlai delights add a flavourful dimension to its historical charm. Indulge in local kebabs and biryanis for an authentic taste of Mughlai cuisine.

• Mumbai: While celebrated for its diverse culinary scene, Mumbai also offers excellent Mughlai food, especially in areas like Mohammad Ali Road during Ramadan. Kebabs and other Mughlai dishes are a highlight in this bustling metropolis.

• Jaipur: The capital of Rajasthan presents a delightful blend of Rajasthani and Mughlai flavours. Seek out restaurants serving delicious kebabs and rich curries for a memorable culinary experience.

• Amritsar: Despite its primary association with Punjabi cuisine, Amritsar surprises with a variety of restaurants offering delectable Mughlai dishes. Many of the Indian Mughlai dishes stand out as a local favourite.

• Chennai: In the southern part of India, Chennai offers a unique fusion of Indian Mughlai cuisine, adding a delightful twist to traditional flavours. Explore the city for a taste of this culinary amalgamation.

Since most of the dishes on this list require expertise in the traditional Mughlai recipes, it is best to experience them at renowned restaurant outlets. Club Mahindra has several exquisite dining experiences throughout India that offer a glimpse into the regal Mughlai cuisine. 

So, the next time you book your family vacation with Club Mahindra, don’t forget to sample some of these Indian Mughlai dishes that are sure to leave your taste buds yearning for more.