Wazwan is a royal feast on a plate. This elaborate multi-course meal is a big part of Kashmiri culture. It’s not just about eating. It is also about coming together, sharing and honouring a tradition that has been around for hundreds of years.
If you ask a Kashmiri, they will tell you that Wazwan is more than just food; it’s a feeling. Wazwan is made with hours of pre-preparation and skill that can’t be beat. It is usually served at weddings and big events. It’s full of flavour, meat and satisfaction.
In the past, this feast was only for special occasions in the beautiful valley of Kashmir. The good news is that you can now enjoy Wazwan from the comfort of your own home, thanks to local Kashmiri kitchens and food delivery services like Zomato.
What Exactly Is Wazwan?
Wazwan (pronounced vaaz-wun) is a traditional Kashmiri meal with several non-vegetarian courses. Most of the dishes are made with lamb or chicken and flavoured with special spices like fennel, dry ginger, Kashmiri red chili and saffron.
In the Kashmiri language, “Waz” means “chef,” and “Wan” means “shop” or “kitchen.” So together, Wazwan literally means a meal prepared by a skilled chef—a Waza—who is trained to carry on the legacy of this centuries-old culinary art.
A full-fledged Wazwan can have up to 36 courses, but even a mini version includes the iconic favourites that Kashmiri food is known for.
Must-Try Dishes from a Wazwan Platter
If you’re new to Wazwan and don’t know where to start, here are some signature dishes that you absolutely must try:
1. Rogan Josh
Arguably the most well-known Kashmiri dish, Rogan Josh is a deep red mutton curry cooked with yoghurt, Kashmiri chilli, and spices. It’s aromatic, bold, and surprisingly not too spicy—just flavourful.
2. Gushtaba
Gushtaba is a big meatball made of finely ground lamb and cooked in a rich yoghurt-based gravy. In Wazwan, it is known as the “king of dishes.” It is served at the end of the meal and means that the feast is coming to an end.
3. Rista
These are soft, juicy meatballs (again, made from hand-pounded lamb) cooked in a spicy red gravy. What makes them special is their delicate texture and vibrant colour—thanks to Kashmiri chilli and saffron.
4. Tabak Maaz
These are fried ribs of lamb, first boiled in milk and spices, then shallow-fried until crisp on the outside and melt-in-the-mouth soft inside. It’s a starter in the Wazwan and a total show-stealer.
5. Yakhni
Yakhni is a calming dish made with mutton in a light yoghurt gravy flavoured with fennel and dry mint. It’s great for people who like milder flavours. It smells good, makes you feel good, and goes well with steamed Kashmiri rice.
6. Dum Aloo (for the vegetarians)
Though Wazwan is heavily meat-based, vegetarians aren’t left out. Kashmiri Dum Aloo, made with baby potatoes in a rich yoghurt gravy, is a favourite across the country—and often included in Wazwan-style spreads.
Wazwan at Home? Yes, Please!
In earlier days, Wazwan was only available at weddings or if you were lucky enough to have a Kashmiri friend invite you over. But now, you can enjoy an authentic Wazwan experience right from your dining table.
Many local Kashmiri restaurants and home kitchens now offer Wazwan thalis or combo meals that include Rogan Josh, Rista, Yakhni, and more. You can even customise your platter based on spice level and serving size—perfect for solo indulgence or a small family celebration.
Order Wazwan on Zomato – Kashmiri Hospitality, Delivered
If you’ve never tried Wazwan before, or you’re simply missing the flavours of home, just open Zomato and search for “Kashmiri Wazwan” in your city. You’ll be surprised to find curated menus from authentic kitchens that deliver piping hot meals with all the traditional touches.