The roots of Mughlai cuisine in India can be traced back to the Mughal Empire, a time when lavish feasts were a way of life. The Mughals, known for their love of gastronomy, brought with them a culinary treasure trove.
As you step into Swagath, you’re not just entering a fine-dining Indian restaurant; you’re entering a time machine that transports you to the grandeur of the Mughal Delicacies. Let’s take a tour into the distinct richness and characteristic beauty of this delectable cuisine.
The Mughal Empire was not just about conquest and power; it was a culinary empire, too. These emperors were known to be connoisseurs of fine food, and their influence on Indian cuisine is immeasurable.
They brought in Persian, Turkish, and Central Asian influences, blending them with Indian spices and techniques. It was during their reign that Mughlai cuisine was born – a cuisine that’s known for its rich, aromatic, and flavourful dishes.
Let’s have a look into the most prominent platter favourites synonymous with the royal delicacy that is Mughlai food.
One of the most iconic dishes of Mughlai cuisine is Biryani. This masterpiece is a melange of fragrant Basmati rice, tender meat, and a blend of aromatic spices. Each bite is a tribute to the culinary finesse of the Mughal kitchen.
Some tales suggest that Biryani was created to provide a nutritious yet delicious meal for the Mughal armies that later travelled to the royal courts, while others say it began as a royal meal reserved for the palace and elites. But what’s the truth? We may never know! What you can know is a lot more about Biryani in our Blog- The Story of Biryani.
The succulent kebabs of this cuisine are a staple in every North Indian restaurant in Delhi. These pieces of marinated meat are skewered and roasted to perfection, resulting in a melt-in-the-mouth experience.
The secret behind this lies in the intricate blend of spices and the use of yoghurt to tenderise the meat. Particularly for kebabs, the meat is preferred to be minced and then mixed with the marinade to give it a smooth, creamy texture that intensifies when cooked perfectly over an open fire. When you savour a kebab at Swagath, you’re savouring a slice of history.
The Mughals had an incredible knack for blending spices, creating rich gravies, and adding a touch of luxury to their curries. All Mughlai curries will have a signature richness that isn’t found in any other gravy across the country. The use of pure ghee, handfuls of dry fruits, and sometimes fresh cream adds a heartiness to the meal, which is complimented by the tangy and charred flavour of the base tomato puree in almost all the curries.
The iconic Butter Chicken, for example, is a creation of the Mughals. The marriage of cream and tomato with succulent chicken pieces is a culinary masterpiece created out of the need not to waste leftover Tandoori Chicken. It’s a classic example of how the Mughals turned simple ideas into culinary legends.
A Mughlai meal is incomplete without a touch of sweetness. Indian desserts like Shahi Tukda, Gulab Jamun, and Rasmalai have their origins in the Mughal courts. Take Shahi Tukda, for instance. It is said to have been a favourite of the Emperor Shah Jahan. The use of saffron, cardamom, and rosewater adds a regal touch to these indulgent treats.
Here at Swagath, we’re proud to offer the best Indian desserts in Delhi and our other locations. You’ll feel the richness, royalty, and an explosion of flavours in every bite. Our freshly prepared delicacies are the perfect solution to your sweet tooth cravings.
We’re passionate about preserving and reimagining the grandeur of Mughlai cuisine. Our chefs are committed to creating an authentic fine dining experience, whether you’re in the mood for Biryani, kebabs, or delectable curries.
The Mughals may have been the kings of their time, but at Swagath, you’re the royalty we serve. Embark on a journey through time and taste as you step into our high-end family restaurant in Delhi or visit our multi-cuisine restaurant in Chandigarh.
Mughlai cuisine is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a journey through the history of India, a tale of emperors and their love for food. At Swagath restaurant, we’re honoured to carry forward this legacy. We invite you to savour the flavours, the aromas, and the history with every bite. Come, dine with us, and experience Mughlai cuisine like never before.
