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Delectable kebabs, aromatic biryani, and airy, ethereal desserts.

The metropolis in India's north of Lucknow has long been a food lovers' paradise, with inhabitants and travelers equally praising its exquisite cuisine.

An International Accolade

Recently, UNESCO designated it as a City of Gastronomy within its Creative Cities Network – adding it to a prestigious list of world cities and sparking hopes that it will showcase Lucknow's sublime food. With this status, it joins a worldwide network of cities cities across more than 100 countries committed to promoting "innovation as a key factor of sustainable urban development".

The recognition "is a testament to its profound gastronomic legacy and vibrant food ecosystem," as stated by a representative from Unesco's regional bureau for South Asia.

Lucknow is only the second Indian city – after Hyderabad, which was chosen in 2019 – to earn a spot in this highly sought-after list of seventy urban centers around the world.

A City Defined by Food

The honor for this venerable city is no surprise to its locals or avid food lovers. Many agree with the view that it is "a recognition that was delayed".

With the UNESCO accolade, this adored, chaotic, and eclectic city – the capital of India's biggest state – is at last in the global gaze for what has always defined its soul: an profound devotion for food.

"'What's for dinner, how should it be prepared' is a ongoing conversation from morning until going to bed in many homes," notes a local cultural expert. "And you are actually evaluated by the standard of food that comes out of your kitchen."

A Heritage of Nawabi Cuisine

The City of the Nawabs – as it's popularly called after its 18th and 19th-century opulent Muslim rulers – is noted for its succulent kebabs and a unique take on biryani that were invented, perfected, and raised to exquisite levels in their imperial kitchens.

These royal kitchens were epicenters of culinary innovations, fusing Iranian and native Indian styles to create what became known as the culinary tradition of Awadh.

It was in this era that Lucknow's renowned kebabs were fashioned. Legend has it that the galouti kebab was devised to feed an ageing nawab who had no longer had his teeth. His cooks ground the meat with raw papaya, saffron, and a blend of spices and made it so soft that it required no chewing.

But arguably the most significant contribution of the cooks of Awadh was the slow-cook Dum pukht technique, where food is cooked on a low, leisurely heat, with the pot's lid securely sealed with dough.

More Than Just Famous Dishes

In addition to the famous kebabs and biryani, the culinary masters also created a vast array of dishes that included kormas (rich curries), sheermal (saffron-infused flatbread), and shahi tukda (a sweet bread pudding).

However, Lucknow is not just about kebabs and biryani – the region is additionally a vegetarian's paradise.

The local traditionally vegetarian community's cuisine doesn't just showcases seasonal produce but also gives the city its meticulously prepared Indian desserts, sweets, and unique street food, like chaat – tangy fried snacks.

Hidden Gems and Legacy Eateries

Virtually on countless corners, there are tiny kiosks and carts – hidden gems that are extremely favored by the locals.

In the central district of Hazratganj, large gatherings start assembling from early morning at a famous tea stall to get a piping hot cup of milky masala chai, served in clay glasses, along with fluffy buns covered in hand-churned white butter.

For breakfast, one can visit a simple joint operating in the old city area of Aminabad. Almost 150 years after it was established, the place is still in great demand for its freshly fried kachoris (fried bread stuffed with lentils) and jalebis (crispy, syrup-soaked sweets).

Ensuring Legacy Continues

The city also boasts unique treats of the season, such as makkhan malai, a frothy dessert found in the winter. The technique of making it is scientific and complicated. The vendor beats the milk and then leaves it out at night, allowing the dew to give it its incredible frothy texture.

On cold mornings, street vendors can be seen in old city areas like Aminabad and Chowk. Some though say that their children are unwilling to take up the art.

A well-known culinary expert from Lucknow has noted that the city's immense food legacy puts it among the best of the Indian street food experience. The significant impact from the UNESCO recognition, it is believed, will occur only if Lucknow can now build recognition about its hidden eateries.

Every dish in Lucknow tells a story – crafted by multi-generational food businesses, from modest street carts to lively restaurants, and guarded family recipes.

The international acclaim, it is anticipated, will encourage more people worldwide to discover these narratives and visit the city to savour the gastronomic treasures of Lucknow.