As winter blankets Pakistan with its cool embrace, the season brings not only chilly temperatures but also an array of comforting remedies and delightful foods to warm the heart and soul. From traditional herbal remedies to hearty winter dishes, here’s a guide to the best remedies and foods to savor in Pakistan during the winter season.
1. Traditional Herbal Remedies:
- Qehwa (Herbal Tea): A quintessential winter beverage, qehwa is an herbal tea brewed with a mix of warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. It not only warms you up but also offers various health benefits.
- Ginger and Honey Infusion: Known for its immune-boosting properties, a warm concoction of ginger and honey is a go-to remedy for soothing sore throats and keeping winter ailments at bay.
2. Winter Delights on the Plate:
- Nihari: A rich and slow-cooked stew, nihari is a winter favorite. Served with naan or paratha, this flavorful dish, often enjoyed for breakfast, is a comforting delight.
- Siri Paye: A hearty and nutritious dish, siri Paye consists of slow-cooked trotters in a flavorful broth. It’s a warming and energy-boosting option for winter mornings.
- Saag and Makai ki Roti: A winter classic, saag (cooked mustard greens) paired with makai ki roti (cornflour flatbread) is a nutritional powerhouse and a beloved combination during the colder months.
- Gajar ka Halwa: Winter in Pakistan is incomplete without indulging in the sweet delight of gajar ka halwa (carrot pudding). Prepared with grated carrots, milk, and sugar, it’s a warm and satisfying treat.
- Doodh Jalebi: A popular winter street food, doodh jalebi combines the sweetness of jalebi (deep-fried pretzels soaked in sugar syrup) with the richness of warm milk.
3. Staying Active and Hydrated:
- Soothing Soups: Whether it’s chicken corn soup or a piping hot bowl of lentil soup (daal), including soups in your winter diet helps keep you hydrated and provides essential nutrients.
- Stay Hydrated with Herbal Teas: In addition to qehwa, incorporating herbal teas like chamomile or green tea into your routine can help maintain hydration levels.
Winter in Pakistan is a season of warmth, not just from cozy layers but also from the nourishing remedies and delightful foods that fill homes and hearts. From herbal teas that ward off the chill to hearty dishes that bring families together, embracing these winter traditions contributes to a season of well-being and joy.
