Lucknow Is Now The UNESCO City Of Gastronomy; 5 Kebabs That Have Helped Earn Its Title

Good news! Lucknow has officially made it to the list of UNESCO Cities of Gastronomy, and naturally, it has left many food-lovers thrilled. The city’s Awadhi cuisine is not just delicious but also carries a rich food heritage. Here are five Lucknowi kebabs you must try in this newly recognised City of Gastronomy!

Lucknow Becomes UNESCO City Of Gastronomy 

The famous Awadhi cuisine and its timeless food traditions have now received global recognition. Lucknow, the City of Nawabs, has officially been declared a UNESCO ‘Creative City of Gastronomy’. This announcement was made during the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference, which is currently ongoing in Uzbekistan.

This global recognition is not just an amazing achievement but also celebrates Lucknow’s centuries-old Awadhi cuisine, its rich heritage, and, of course, its food scene. The Nawabi kitchens, birthplace of Galouti Kebabs, Awadhi Biryani, and melt-in-the-mouth Kakori Kebabs, have made Lucknow the second Indian city to earn this title. Hyderabad was the first Indian city to be named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2019.

Also Read: 800-YO Mahim Fort In Mumbai Set For Major Restoration Work; UNESCO Site To Regain Its Lost Glory

5 Must-Try Kebabs Of Lucknow

Since Lucknow is now in the spotlight for earning this global recognition, let’s talk about the five best kebabs you can enjoy in this city of gastronomy.

1. Galouti Kebab

The best kebabs you will find in Lucknow! Often known as the ‘kebab of the royal court’, they are famous for their melt-in-mouth texture. Moreover, a legend says these kebabs were specially created for Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, who had lost his teeth and couldn’t chew. These soft kebabs helped him enjoy the dish without any effort. Interesting, right?

2. Kakori Kebab

Just like Galouti, these Kakori Kebabs are equally soft and flavourful. They are usually made with minced lamb or chicken, mixed with aromatic spices. People mostly enjoy them as a snack or wrapped in rumali roti.

3. Shami Kebab

These kebabs from the Mughal era are an integral part of Awadhi cuisine. They have a crispy outer layer with a soft, melt-in-the-mouth centre. Served as an appetiser, Shami Kebabs are made with minced meat and ground chickpeas. They definitely deserve a spot on your list if you are visiting Lucknow. 

4. Boti Kebab

Made by marinating tender chunks of meat in a blend of spices and yoghurt, these kebabs are both juicy and flavourful. Their distinct smoky flavour also makes them stand out from the rest. Roasted over open flames, it’s a perfect appetiser for winter evenings.

Also Read: Lucknow Has A Swastika-Shaped Lotus Garden With Over 60 Types Of Lotus Blooming All Year Round

5. Majlisi Kebab

Also called Ghutwa Kebab, this one’s a hidden gem of Lucknow. These kebabs are known to be spicy, rich, and flavourful. People of Lucknow often slow-cook it to get that paste-like consistency, which makes these kebabs soft. Foodies often enjoy these kebabs with bread or as a starter, too!

So, how many of these kebabs from Lucknow have you tried? Now that the city’s gastronomic scene has received UNESCO recognition, it’s the perfect reason to plan a trip and try them all!

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Ashir Kumar and Subodh Agnihotri