Sikkim Cuisine

Sikkimese Cuisine: Top 11 Famous Food of Sikkim

 

The enchanting land of Sikkim not only boasts stunning landscapes and rich culture but also delicious food. Influenced by neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet, Sikkimese cuisine has a unique and flavourful character, enriched by local tastes. Adding to the appeal, Sikkim is an organic state, ensuring that every dish is not only tasty but also made from healthy, indigenous organic ingredients. 

 

From dumplings and noodles to hearty stews and veggie delights, the Sikkim food scene is an exciting journey for your taste buds. Read this blog to explore some famous food of Sikkim that makes this Himalayan gem a true culinary paradise.

CONTENTS:

 

Here’s a list of popular Sikkim food you must-try on your next visit.

 

1. Momos - The Heart of Sikkimese Cuisine

2. Thukpa - A Hearty Bowl of Goodness

3. Phagshapa - A Pork Lover's Delight

4. Gundruk and Sinki - Unique Fermented Specialties

5. Kinema - A Fermented Soybean Delicacy

6. Sel Roti - Sikkim's Version of Donuts

7. Gya Kho: A Flavorful Meat Delight

8. Chhurpi Soup: Wholesome and Nourishing

9. Tama Curry: Embrace the Bamboo Shoot Magic

10. Thenthuk: Hand-Pulled Noodle Soup

11. Temi Tea of Sikkim: A Must-Have Drink

 

1. Momos - The Heart of Sikkimese Cuisine

 

Let’s start our list with a Sikkimese favourite – Momos! These tasty dumplings, originally from Tibet and adopted by Nepalese cuisine, are a must-try in Sikkim. Momos come with fillings like veggies or minced meat, steamed or fried to perfection. 

 

Served with spicy red chilli sauce, this famous food of Sikkim is loved by both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. You can find Momos in the many popular restaurants in Gangtok, offering both steamed and fried options.

 

2. Thukpa - A Hearty Bowl of Goodness

 

Looking for a warm treat in the chilly Himalayan weather? Try Thukpa, a famous Tibetan dish. This hearty noodle soup is filled with vegetables, meat, and aromatic spices, offering a comforting meal. Whether you are a vegetarian or non-vegetarian, there’s a Thukpa version for you.

 

Thukpa contains a mix of Sikkim's organic ingredients, including chicken and locally grown veggies like carrots, bell peppers, spinach, cauliflower, and celery. It's a popular street food of Sikkim, providing a true taste of local flavours.

 

3. Phagshapa - A Pork Lover's Delight

 

Pork lovers, here’s a popular food in Sikkim for you– Phagshapa! This traditional dish features strips of pork fat, radishes, and dried red chillies, slow-cooked to perfection.

 

A must-try for non-vegetarians, Phagshapa reflects Sikkim's rich culinary heritage. Surprisingly, this famous dish is prepared without oil, focusing on the goodness of vegetables and protein, making it a healthy choice for hardcore meat lovers.

 

4. Gundruk and Sinki - Unique Fermented Specialties

 

Both Gundruk and Sinki are famous food of Sikkim of Nepalese origin. These popular local dishes offer a unique taste you’ll remember for long. While Gundruk is made from fermented leafy greens, Sinki is a special radish pickle. 

 

Gundruk and Sinki are prepared in traditional earthen pots. These dishes add a tangy flavour to your dinner while showcasing the region's unique food preservation techniques. If you enjoy sour delicacies, give these a try – they stay fresh for a year and can be added to stews and soups. Don't forget to savour the delightful Sinki soup for a tasty experience.

 

5. Kinema - A Fermented Soybean Delicacy

 

If you are vegetarian and looking for famous food of Sikkim, Kinema is your answer. This fermented soybean dish is a protein-packed delight with a strong aroma and unique taste. 

 

Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or in stews, Kinema reflects Sikkim's dedication to preserving traditional culinary practices. Its high protein content make it a healthy option in Sikkim. Pair it with rice for a delicious experience that will leave you wanting more.

 

6. Sel Roti - Sikkim's Version of Donuts

 

Looking for a Sikkim food that’s sweet in taste? Try Sel Roti, a traditional rice-based donut that's deep-fried to golden perfection. While it's a famous dish in Nepal, it's also enjoyed in Sikkim. 

 

Made from homemade rice flour, the process involves washing, soaking, grinding, and mixing with water to form a paste. Sugar, cardamom, and spices are added, and the mixture is dropped into hot oil to form a ring to look like a donut. Try this delicious treat with yogurt or spicy pickles. 

 

7. Gya Kho: A Flavorful Meat Delight

 

Here comes a popular Sikkim food for non-vegetarians. Gya Kho features delicious shreds of beef or yak meat slow-cooked with a blend of aromatic spices. This Sikkimese adaptation of a Tibetan dish boast a burst of flavours, showcasing the culinary mastery of Sikkim. 

 

Also known as chimney soup, it gets its name from the bowl resembling a chimney, and it's cooked under coal with a mix of delectable ingredients. Served with steamed rice or traditional bread, Gya Kho is a must-try popular food of Sikkim.

 

8. Chhurpi Soup: Wholesome and Nourishing

 

Another traditional food of Sikkim, Chhurpi Soup features traditional Chhurpi cheese as its main ingredient. Another key ingredient added to this local delicacy is paanch phoran, a mix of five spices. 

 

This wholesome soup also contains locally sourced vegetables and pulses for a nutritious and comforting dish, perfect for colder months. Garnished with refreshing coriander leaves, it's a must-try for vegetarians and a famous food of Sikkim. 

 

9. Tama Curry: Embrace the Bamboo Shoot Magic

 

Try Tama Curry for a taste of Sikkim's bamboo shoot cuisine. This dish features fermented bamboo shoots in a delighful curry, offering an unforgettable sour and earthy taste. 

 

When paired with steamed rice, Tama Curry provides a unique culinary experience with the use of local ingredients. Expect a touch of turmeric that removes the bitter taste of bamboo shoots.

 

10. Thenthuk: Hand-Pulled Noodle Soup

 

Hailing from the Tibetan culinary influence in Sikkim, Thenthuk is a popular food in Sikkim. This wholesome nood soup consists of hand-pulled wheat noodles, vegetables, and sometimes meat, creating a delightful mix of textures. The broth is infused with aromatic spices, making Thenthuk a perfect comfort food, especially during colder seasons. 

 

Whether you prefer the vegetarian or non-vegetarian version, Thenthuk guarantees a bowlful of warmth and authentic taste. It is a popular dinner choice among locals.

 

11. Temi Tea of Sikkim: A Must-Have Drink

 

No trip is complete without enjoying the local tea. Experience Sikkim tea in the chilly weather of the region. Sourced from Temi Tea Garden, one of the popular places to visit in Sikkim, this tea offers a rich flavor with an authentic taste. Head to the tea stalls at MG Road, and the taste will linger in your memory.

 

Temi tea is the best organic tea in Sikkim, available in four flushes. You can buy it at any local store in Sikkim to take a piece of the experience home with you.

 

Take Away!

 

As you explore the beautiful attractions, don't forget to try the delicious famous food of Sikkim. From Momos to unique dishes like Gundruk and Sinki, Sikkim's cuisine has a mix of traditional and new flavours. Enjoy these tasty dishes and experience the diverse food culture of Sikkim.

Excited to try these treats? Book your Sikkim tour package now for a yummy adventure.