Uttar Pradesh is not just India’s most populous state—it’s also one of the richest when it comes to food heritage. Every region here has something unique to offer, whether it’s from the kitchens of Lucknow, the streets of Varanasi, or the sweet shops of Mathura.
The food in UP is a reflection of its diverse culture and long history. The Nawabi influence in Awadh, the spiritual roots of Varanasi, and the rustic flavours of Bundelkhand—all come together to create a vibrant and mouthwatering cuisine. Most dishes are full of bold spices, deep flavours, and age-old cooking methods that have been passed down through generations.
Let’s explore some of the most famous food of Uttar Pradesh that you simply can’t miss.
1. Galouti Kebab – The Pride of Lucknow
Lucknow, the city of Nawabs, is famous for its kebabs—and Galouti Kebab tops the list. This dish was originally made for a toothless Nawab who wanted soft meat that didn’t require chewing. That’s why these kebabs are so tender, they melt in your mouth.
Galouti Kebabs are made with finely minced meat (usually mutton), marinated in over 50 spices, and shallow-fried on a pan. They’re served with parathas or sheermal (a sweet bread) and sliced onions. The taste is rich, smoky, and full of delicate flavours.
You can try this dish at famous eateries like Tunday Kababi in Lucknow. It’s not just food—it’s a piece of culinary history that reflects the royal heritage of Uttar Pradesh.
2. Banarasi Chaat – A Flavour Bomb from Varanasi
When you walk through the busy lanes of Varanasi, you’ll be greeted by the tempting aroma of sizzling tikkis, spicy chutneys, and hot jalebis. Among all, Banarasi Chaat holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of locals and tourists alike.
Tamatar Chaat is one of the most loved items. Made by cooking mashed tomatoes with spices, desi ghee, and crunchy toppings, it offers a spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavour in every bite. Other popular options include dahi puri, palak chaat, and aloo tikki chaat.
The beauty of Banarasi chaat lies in its chaos—a burst of flavours, textures, and temperatures that hit all the right spots. It’s messy, mouthwatering, and utterly satisfying. Visit Kashi Chaat Bhandar or Deena Chaat in Varanasi for the real deal.
3. Awadhi Biryani – Aromatic and Royal
Awadhi Biryani is one of Uttar Pradesh’s most iconic dishes. Unlike Hyderabadi biryani, which is spicier, the Awadhi version focuses on subtle flavours and dum cooking, where the meat and rice are sealed and slow-cooked together in a handi (pot).
The result is a fragrant and moist biryani where every grain of rice is infused with the aroma of saffron, rose water, and whole spices. The meat—be it mutton or chicken—is soft and juicy. It’s usually served with raita, mint chutney, or simply enjoyed on its own.
Lucknow is the best place to taste this dish, especially at outlets like Idris Biryani or Wahid Biryani. Whether you’re a biryani lover or trying it for the first time, Awadhi Biryani will leave a lasting impression.
4. Bedai with Aloo Sabzi – Breakfast Staple of Agra and Mathura
In western UP, especially in Agra and Mathura, mornings often begin with the smell of hot bedai being fried in ghee. Bedai is a type of puffed puri made with urad dal stuffing, served with spicy aloo sabzi and a bit of tangy chutney.
The combination is simple, yet packed with flavour. The bedai is crispy on the outside and soft inside, while the aloo sabzi is bursting with spices, often cooked with hing (asafoetida) and dry masalas. You’ll usually find this dish in roadside stalls early in the morning, with long lines of locals waiting their turn.
In Mathura, it’s often followed by a serving of sweet jalebis or peda, balancing the spicy with the sweet. If you’re in Agra or Mathura, skipping this local breakfast would be a crime.
5. Tehri – The Veggie Cousin of Biryani
While biryani is loved across Uttar Pradesh, Tehri holds a special place in vegetarian homes. This one-pot rice dish is made with seasonal vegetables, aromatic spices, and basmati rice. It’s colourful, comforting, and packed with nutrition.
Unlike pulao, Tehri is more robust in flavour. The vegetables are usually cooked with spices before being added to the rice, giving the dish a deeper taste. You’ll often find versions with potatoes, peas, carrots, and even cauliflower, depending on the season.
Tehri is a common lunch item in many UP households, especially on weekends. It’s usually served with curd, pickle, and papad. If you’re in Uttar Pradesh and looking for a homely, vegetarian dish, Tehri is your best bet.
6. Malaiyo – A Winter Delight from Varanasi
Malaiyo is not just a dessert—it’s an experience. Available only during the winter months, Malaiyo is a sweet, airy foam made by boiling milk, letting it rest overnight under the dew, and then churning it in the morning.
The result is a cloud-like dessert, flavoured with saffron, cardamom, and garnished with pistachios. It’s served in tiny clay cups, and the moment you put it in your mouth, it vanishes like mist. It’s light, mildly sweet, and unlike any dessert you’ve had before.
You’ll mostly find Malaiyo in the narrow lanes of Varanasi, being sold by small vendors who wake up early to prepare it fresh. If you’re visiting in December or January, don’t miss this seasonal treat.
Final Thoughts: UP’s Food is a Journey Through Culture
The famous food of Uttar Pradesh is more than just tasty—it’s deeply rooted in history, faith, and tradition. Whether it’s the royal Awadhi dishes, the street snacks of Varanasi, or the comforting home-style meals of western UP, every dish tells a story.
What makes UP’s food so special is the balance—it has the richness of ghee, the heat of spices, the sweetness of traditional desserts, and the simplicity of home cooking. It reflects the people—warm, generous, and full of life.
So, if you ever find yourself in Uttar Pradesh, don’t just visit temples or monuments. Sit down at a local eatery, try the food, and taste the legacy of this incredible state.
