Move over, butter chicken! Delhi’s culinary scene is about to take your taste buds on a thrilling expedition to the fiery frontiers of the North-East. We’re venturing into the heart of Safdarjung, a neighbourhood simmering with hidden gems waiting to be devoured. Forget bland and boring – North-Eastern cuisine is a flavour explosion waiting to happen. Imagine succulent momos bursting with juicy fillings, fiery curries that tantalize your taste buds, and unique street food that will have you coming back for more.
Embark on a delicious journey through Assam, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and beyond – all within the vibrant heart of Safdarjung! This article unveils Safdarjung’s Spicy Secrets: 5 Top North-Eastern Eats, where we’ll be your guide to a world of culinary adventure.
Bamboo Hut: A Rustic Escape with Authentic Flavours
First up, we head to Bamboo Hut, a restaurant that lives up to its name. The ambience is simple and charming, with bamboo décor transporting you to the heart of the North-East. But the real magic happens on your plate.
Must-tries:
- Pork Vindaloo: This Goan staple gets a fiery North-Eastern twist at Bamboo Hut. Succulent pork simmers in a rich, aromatic gravy loaded with fragrant spices, guaranteed to leave you reaching for your water (and maybe another bite!).
- Bamboo Shoot Stir Fry: Experience the unique texture and flavour of bamboo shoots in this delightful stir-fry. Crisp bamboo strips are tossed with crunchy vegetables and a touch of spice, making for a refreshingly light side dish.
- Assam Fish Curry: Dive into the heart of Assamese cuisine with this fragrant fish curry. Delicate river fish is cooked in a light, flavourful broth infused with mustard seeds, fenugreek, and a hint of tanginess.
Bhansaghar: A Celebration of North-Eastern Street Food
Calling all street food aficionados! Bhansaghar is your one-stop shop for a flavourful exploration of North-Eastern street eats. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff will make you feel right at home as you explore the menu.
Don’t miss:
- Chicken Jalebi: Forget the sweet version! Here, jalebi takes on a savoury form. Minced chicken is marinated in a robust blend of spices, then deep-fried to crispy perfection.
- Aloo Pork: This Assamese delight is a must-try for meat lovers. Tender pork belly is slow-cooked with potatoes in a rich, smoky gravy, creating a dish bursting with flavour and comfort.
- Smoked Pork with Bamboo Shoot Salad: This unique salad combines the smokiness of cured pork with the refreshing crunch of bamboo shoots. Tangy dressing and fresh herbs add another layer of complexity, making it a perfect appetizer.
Oh! Assam: A Culinary Ode to the “Land of the Red River and Blue Hills”
As the name suggests, Oh! Assam is a love letter to the state of Assam. The décor is modern and inviting, while the menu offers a delectable exploration of Assamese cuisine.
Treat your taste buds to:
- Masor Tenga: This tangy fish curry is a staple in Assamese households. Fresh river fish is cooked in a light broth flavoured with tomatoes, tamarind, and a unique selection of herbs that will leave you wanting more.
- Komal Kochur Tenga: Calling all vegetarians! This dish features tender elephant foot yam (known locally as “komal kachu”) cooked in a tangy and flavourful tamarind gravy. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking a vegetarian delight.
Hornbill: A Taste of Nagaland
Get ready for a fiery adventure at Hornbill, a restaurant dedicated to showcasing the bold and beautiful flavours of Nagaland. Be warned – the spice levels here can be intense, but that’s precisely what makes Nagaland cuisine so exciting!
Spice up your life with:
- Pork with Bamboo Shoot: This dish is a Nagaland classic. Tender pork is stir-fried with crunchy bamboo shoots and flavoured with a potent Naga chili paste, creating a symphony of textures and heat.
- Smoked Beef with Axone: Axone is a fermented soybean dish unique to Nagaland and adds a funky, umami punch to this dish. Smoked beef is stir-fried with axone and other spices, resulting in a complex and flavourful experience.
- Naga King Chilli Chicken: Fire up your taste buds with this fiery chicken dish prepared using the infamous Naga Jolokia chilli.
Nagaland Kitchen: A Taste of the Hills
Nagaland Kitchen brings the bold and fiery flavours of Nagaland to your plate. Be prepared for a spice adventure, as Naga cuisine is known for its generous use of chilies.
Must-tries:
- Smoked Pork with Naga Chilli: This dish is not for the faint-hearted! Tender smoked pork served with a fiery Naga chilli chutney.
- Bamboo Shoot stir-fry: A lighter option with crunchy bamboo shoots stir-fried with vegetables and spices.
- Axone (Fermented Soybean Stew): A traditional Naga dish with a unique flavour profile.
