Shayari on a plate
Lucknow, ‘Nawabo ka shahar’ a visual tapestry woven with threads of history, culture, architectural splendor and of course culinary finesse.
Features
Credits: Tundaykebabi.com
Hassya Pawar
As they say “Muskuraiye aap Lucknow mai hai” (Smile as you are in Lucknow), Tunday Kababi could be another reason for you to smile in this beautiful city that celebrates culture, heritage and love.
Lucknow, ‘Nawabo ka shahar’ is a visual tapestry woven with threads of history, culture, architectural splendor and of course culinary finesse. Picture this : the tantalizing aroma of sizzling meat, perfectly charred and infused with an intoxicating blend of spices that beckon you from afar. Well, that is just how your plate of Tunday kebabs is served accompanied with mouthwatering chutney, onions and the Tehezeeb.
A visual feast wouldn't be complete without the tantalizing array of Lucknawi cuisine. From aromatic kebabs to decadent biryanis, the city's culinary delights are a treat for both the eyes and the palate. And among the plethora of delicious dishes that adorn the city's gourmand landscape, Tunday Kababi stands as a timeless testament to Lucknow's rich culinary heritage. These melt-in-mouth kebabs, born in the heart of the city, not only titillate the palate but also weave a story of tradition, skill, and unbridled passion for flavors.
credits: Hassya Pawar
As you approach a Tunday Kababi outlet, the air is thick with the fragrance of the secret spices. The anticipation builds with each step, drawing you closer to an experience that transcends the ordinary. The exterior, unassuming yet charming, belies the culinary spectacle that awaits within. Walk through the narrow lanes of Chowk, the heartbeat of the city and step through that wooden door, and you're greeted by the rhythmic sizzle of kebabs grilling to perfection. The ambiance, rich with the echoes of centuries-old culinary traditions, wraps around you like a warm embrace. The centerpiece of this culinary symphony is the famous Tunday Kabab, a masterpiece of minced meat expertly seasoned with a perfect blend of spices. Each kebab, lovingly shaped by the skilled hands of seasoned chefs, promises a journey through various flavors that dance on your taste buds. The first bite is a revelation – tender, juicy, and exploding with a medley of spices that leaves you craving more.
Every bite feels like beautifully written urdu poetry. Where the complexities in the craft are eased with the mesmerizing delivery creating an experience for one to carry with them. People from different backgrounds and paths of life feels like a gathering at a mushaira where each one has a story to tell and the extraordinary Tunday kebab becomes a medium.
The Legend of Haji Murad Ali ('Tunday'): The story begins with Haji Murad Ali, a skilled one-armed chef, affectionately known as 'Tunday' due to his disability. Despite his physical challenge, Tunday was a culinary genius, and his journey laid the foundation for what would later become the celebrated Tunday Kababi. The success of Tunday Kababi is the closely guarded family secret — a unique blend of spices known only to a few. This spice mix is the soul of the kebabs, that adds a distinctive and unforgettable flavor to the minced meat. The exact composition of this spice blend remains sub roza (top secret), passed down through generations within the family. It was the year 1905 when Haji Murad Ali opened the first Tunday Kababi outlet in the bustling streets of Chowk in Lucknow. His culinary genius quickly gained popularity among the locals, and the outlet became a go-to destination for those seeking exquisite kebabs. Over the years, Tunday Kababi has become synonymous with Lucknawi culinary heritage. The authenticity of the preparation, the commitment to tradition, and the unparalleled taste have sustained its popularity, making it a must-try for locals and visitors alike.
In the world of Tunday Kababi, temptation isn't just a sensation; it's a promise fulfilled with every mouthful. The flavors linger on your palate, an indelible memory that beckons you back for more. So, surrender to the temptation, let the aroma guide you, and immerse yourself in the exquisite world of Tunday Kababi – where every bite is a celebration of tradition, taste, and unabashed indulgence.
