Travel Diaries 1.0: A Culinary Journey through the Mountains of Kashmir | The Spicy Trail’s Tour to Kashmir | Outdoor Cooking
Nestled in the northern pasts, lies a true haven for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. The mountains of Kashmir, during the summer, beckon travelers with their breathtaking landscapes and temperate climate. Here, the air is crisp, the vistas are awe-inspiring, and the allure of outdoor cooking becomes irresistible. As we ventured forth in our Travel Diaries 1.0 to explore this tranquil paradise, we were brimming with anticipation, yearning to immerse ourselves in the region’s stunning beauty and savor the bliss of outdoor cooking—an adventure that held the promise of not only culinary delight but also the soothing harmony of ASMR outdoor cooking sounds.
The Bitter Culinary Reality
However, amidst the grandeur of Kashmir’s mountains and valleys, we discovered a culinary drawback that challenged our taste buds – expensive and tasteless food. This issue becomes even more pronounced when you venture into remote areas, where choices become extremely limited. It was a disheartening realization that in such pristine natural surroundings, the gastronomic experience often fell short of expectations. The yearning for a satisfying meal ignited our quest to offer a culinary remedy to fellow travelers.
Answering the Call for Simplicity
Fueled by our own struggles with food in the mountains, we felt a growing responsibility to provide simple yet delicious recipes to those exploring these rugged terrains. We handpicked recipes that required minimal time and effort, ensuring they could be easily prepared in the outdoor settings that we so cherished. Our mission was clear: to enhance the overall travel experience by transforming mealtime into a delightful and memorable affair.
Our journey through the mountains of Kashmir took us to some iconic landmarks, where we decided to whip up delectable dishes, embracing the concept of outdoor cooking ASMR.
Dowarian: Aloo Anday Breakfast
Dowarian is a picturesque village nestled in the stunning region of Kashmir, known for its breathtaking natural beauty. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1,615 meters (5,299 feet) above sea level, Dowarian serves as the starting point for the trekking routes leading to the enchanting Patliyan and Ratti Gali Lakes. The journey to these pristine alpine lakes involves traversing rugged mountain terrain and offers adventurous travelers a glimpse of the region’s stunning landscapes.
Our first stop was Dowariyan, where we prepared Alu Anda Bhujia—a hearty, spicy potato and egg dish. As we cooked amidst the breathtaking mountain vistas, the aroma of the dish wafted through the crisp mountain air, creating an outdoor cooking ASMR experience that was both soothing and appetizing.
Ratti Gali Lake: Yogurt Chicken
Ratti Gali Lake is a hidden gem of Kashmir, renowned for its stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain vistas. Situated at an elevation of approximately 12,083 feet above sea level, this high-altitude alpine lake is a paradise for trekkers and nature enthusiasts, offering a serene and tranquil escape amidst the Himalayan wilderness.
At Ratti Gali Lake, we prepared Yogurt & Onion Chicken Curry—a flavorful and creamy delight that provided the perfect sustenance for our trek. The soothing sound of the nearby lake complemented the ASMR outdoor cooking experience, making it a memorable meal by the lake.
Margalla Waterfall at Kel: Caramel Tea
Margalla Waterfall, nestled en route from Dowarian to Kel in the breathtaking region of Kashmir, is a hidden gem that captivates travelers with its pristine beauty. Surrounded by lush greenery and framed by towering mountains, this cascading waterfall offers a refreshing stop for those journeying through the scenic landscapes of Kel. Its crystal-clear waters and tranquil ambiance make it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and trekkers exploring the enchanting wilderness of Kashmir.
Margalla Waterfall at Kel was the perfect spot to prepare a cup of caramel tea. As the tea bubbled and caramelized over an open fire, we couldn’t help but be entranced by the ASMR outdoor cooking sounds and the breathtaking view of the cascading waterfall at an altitude of 6879 feet.
Taobat: Chicken Shinwari Karahi & Creamy Chicken Curry
Taobat is a quaint and charming village situated in the mesmerizing landscapes of Kashmir. Nestled amidst lush green valleys and surrounded by towering mountains, Taobat offers a serene and picturesque retreat for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. This remote village allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the authentic Kashmiri way of life while enjoying breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Upon our arrival in Taobat, the enchanting village in Kashmir, the sun was beginning to dip below the horizon, casting a warm, golden hue over the landscape. As the evening settled in, we decided to embrace the local flavors and prepared a delicious Shinwari Karahi, sizzling with aromatic spices, right under the star-studded sky at 7500 ft.
The following day in Taobat, with the sun illuminating the valley, we embarked on another culinary adventure. For our lunch, we delighted in a Creamy Chicken curry, prepared with locally sourced ingredients, adding another layer of flavor to our unforgettable Kashmiri culinary experience amidst the stunning natural beauty of the region.
Patlian Lake: Chicken Tikka
Patlian Lake, located in the captivating region of Kashmir, is a pristine alpine jewel nestled at an elevation of around 12,000 feet above sea level. Surrounded by lush green meadows and towering snow-capped peaks, this remote lake exudes a sense of serenity and tranquility. It’s a destination for avid trekkers seeking a challenging yet rewarding journey through the rugged Himalayan terrain, ultimately arriving at this picturesque and secluded natural wonder.
On our way to Patliyan Lake, where we marinated and grilled succulent Chicken Tikka at its base camp. The crisp mountain air and the mouthwatering aroma of the tikka made it an irresistible treat.
Kundal Shahi Waterfall: One Pot Creamy Pasta
Kundal Shahi Waterfall, located in the picturesque region of Kashmir, is a natural wonder that leaves visitors in awe of its sheer beauty. Surrounded by dense forests and rugged terrain, this waterfall tumbles down in multiple tiers, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The journey to reach Kundal Shahi adds to the adventure, making it a favorite destination for those seeking a serene and off-the-beaten-path experience amidst the enchanting landscapes of Kashmir.
Our final culinary destination was Kundal Shahi Waterfall, which provided a serene backdrop for our One Pot White Sauce Pasta adventure at an elevation of 4,452 ft. As we stirred the creamy pasta, the sounds of the waterfall and the birds around us created a symphony of nature’s ASMR, enhancing the joy of our meal.
In conclusion, our Travel Diaries 1.0 journey through the mountains of Kashmir not only allowed us to savor the beauty of nature but also to satisfy our cravings for delicious food. Through outdoor cooking and the creation of ASMR outdoor cooking moments, we hope to inspire fellow travelers to embark on their culinary adventures while exploring the stunning landscapes of the north. So, the next time you plan your trip to these picturesque areas, remember to bring along some simple recipes and enjoy the harmony of nature and flavors in the great outdoors.
