ISLAMABAD: As winter sweeps across various cities, the season ushers in a delectable array of traditional cuisines, captivating the taste buds of food enthusiasts. The aroma of winter specialties such as Doodh Jalebi, Gajar ka Halwa, Chicken Corn Soup, Kashmiri tea, fried fish, Samosa, Pakora, and hot coffee permeates the air, creating a culinary delight for locals.
Temporary stalls, adorned with an array of winter delights, have sprung up along roadsides, drawing crowds of all ages. A diverse menu, featuring the likes of Pakistani, Italian, and Chinese cuisines, adds to the seasonal food festivities.
Citizens, flocking to food streets and restaurants, savor the winter nights by indulging in a variety of comfort foods. Fish vendors note a significant increase in sales during the colder months, as fish consumption becomes a popular choice.
Punjabi specialties like Sarson-Ka-Saag with makki-ki-roti and Gajar ka Halwa take the spotlight during the winter season. Families reminisce about the joy of savoring Gajar ka Halwa, a traditional winter delight, with its sweet and warm essence.
Kashmiri chai, a creamy tea with a distinctive taste, becomes a comforting companion on chilly nights. The season also brings forth Panjeeri, a nutritious dessert made from almonds, walnuts, semolina, sugar, desi ghee, and other herbs, offering a crunchy and dry sweetness.
Circular and wiggly jalebis, deep-fried and dipped in sugar syrup, emerge as winter favorites, adding a sweet touch to the season. Customers express their love for winter, citing the joy of indulging in traditional sweets like Daal and Gajar ka Halwa, accompanied by bonfire parties.
Shopkeepers report a surge in the sales of Gajar ka Halwa, highlighting its status as a winter favorite that has doubled in demand compared to regular days. As winter unfolds, these culinary delights become a cherished part of the seasonal experience, bringing warmth and joy to communities.
