Kashmiri Wazwan, an elaborate and intricate feast, is more than just a culinary tradition; it is a cultural treasure that reflects the rich heritage and vibrant history of Kashmir. This multi-course meal is a celebration of flavours, a meticulous art form, and a communal experience that has been passed down through generations. Originating in the Kashmir Valley, Wazwan has become synonymous with Kashmiri identity, embodying the region's artistry, hospitality, and unique blend of influences from Central Asia, Persia, and the Mughal Empire.

The genesis of Wazwan dates back to the 14th century when the Mughal influence began to shape the culinary landscape of Kashmir. Skilled chefs, known as 'wazas', were brought from Persia and Central Asia by Timur, merging their sophisticated techniques with local ingredients and customs. This blending of cultures gave birth to Wazwan, which has since evolved into a unique culinary art form, incorporating Persian, Central Asian, and Kashmiri elements, resulting in a distinct cuisine that is both rich and diverse.

The term "Wazwan" itself derives from 'waz', meaning cook or cooking, and 'wan', meaning shop or kitchen. This highlights the importance of the chef and the kitchen in the creation of Wazwan, emphasizing the meticulous preparation and the masterful skills required to execute this feast.

Video Courtesy: Sanjeev Kapoor (Khana Khazana - Kashmiri Wazwan)

A traditional Wazwan is a grand affair, often comprising of 7 to 36 courses, each meticulously crafted to delight the senses. The dishes are usually served on a 'trami', a large copper platter, shared by four people, emphasizing the communal aspect of the meal. The trami is often covered with a dome-shaped lid, revealing the feast in a dramatic unveiling that sets the stage for the culinary journey.

Some of the main wazwan delicacies include:

• Methi Maaz: Tender cuts of meat (mutton intestines) simmered in a rich sauce of fenugreek leaves and a blend of Kashmiri spices.
• Tabak Maaz: Tender lamb ribs, marinated and fried to perfection.
• Daeni Phoul: Lamb shank. One of the starter dish in Wazwan.
• Waz Kokur: Two halves or two full chicken grill-cooked whole.
• Seekh Kabab: Minced lamb mixed with a medley of spices, skewered, and grilled.
• Rista: Delicate meatballs simmered in a flavourful saffron-infused fiery red gravy.
• Rogan Josh: A vibrant red curry made with tender lamb, spiced with Kashmiri chilies.
• Aab Gosht: Lamb chunks cooked with a fennel-based spice mixture, cardamom and partially evaporated milk.
• Yakhni: A soothing lamb curry made with yogurt and aromatic spices.
• Daniwal Korma: A coriander-infused lamb curry with a fragrant and delicate flavor.
• Marchhwangan Korma: Mutton cooked with Kashmiri red chilly and other spices and with a little zing from tarmarind water.
• Doudha Ras: Succulent lamb curry cooked in sweet milk gravy.
• Lahabi kabab: Flattened mutton kababs cooked in yogurt and red-gravy.
• Paalak Rista: Green spinach cooked with small mutton balls.
• Ruwangan Chhaman: Cheese (paneer) squares with tomato gravy.
• Gushtaba: Large meatballs in a rich yogurt-based gravy, last grand serving of Wazwan.
• Gand Chetin: Chopped onions mixed with chilies, salt, curd and spices.
• Muji Chetin: Chopped spinach mixed with chilies, salt, curd and spices.
• Doon Chetin: Chopped walnuts mixed with chilies, salt, curd and spices.

The essence of Wazwan lies in its ingredients, which are often sourced locally and prepared with painstaking precision. Lamb is the star of many dishes, complemented by a variety of spices such as saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, which are staples in Kashmiri cooking. The use of saffron, in particular, is a hallmark of Kashmiri cooking, adding a unique flavor and vibrant golden hue to many dishes, symbolizing the opulence of this cuisine.

The preparation of Wazwan is a ceremonial, meticulous and labor-intensive process, often requiring days of preparation. The wazas, often regarded as artists, employ traditional techniques like slow cooking and frying to enhance the flavors and textures of each dish. The art of making one of the dishes called 'Gushtaba', for instance, involves pounding meat to a fine paste and cooking it gently in a creamy sauce, ensuring a delicate and melt-in-the-mouth texture.

The essence of Wazwan lies in its ingredients, which are often sourced locally and prepared with painstaking precision. The preparation of Wazwan is a ceremonial and labor-intensive process, often requiring days of preparation. A traditional Wazwan is a grand affair, often comprising of 7 to 36 courses, each meticulously crafted to delight the senses.

Wazwan is more than a culinary delight; it is a cultural and social emblem deeply ingrained in Kashmiri life. It is a fixture at weddings, festivals, and significant celebrations, symbolizing prosperity and hospitality. The communal aspect of sharing a trami fosters a sense of unity and togetherness, reflecting the social fabric of Kashmiri society.

The wazas, who are central to the Wazwan tradition, hold a revered status in the community. Their expertise is often passed down through generations, ensuring the preservation of this rich culinary heritage. The preparation and presentation of Wazwan are viewed as a form of art, with the wazas as the master craftsmen who bring this tradition to life.

While Wazwan remains a cherished tradition, it has also evolved to accommodate modern tastes and lifestyles. Contemporary interpretations of Wazwan can be found in restaurants and homes, with chefs experimenting with new ingredients and techniques while still honoring the essence of this ancient cuisine.

Additionally, Wazwan has gained popularity beyond Kashmir, with food enthusiasts from around the world seeking to experience its unique flavors. This has led to an increased appreciation of Kashmiri culture and a recognition of the rich culinary heritage that Wazwan represents.

Kashmiri Wazwan is a testament to the region's rich cultural tapestry and culinary expertise. It is a feast that not only delights the palate but also tells a story of tradition, community, and artistry. As a living symbol of Kashmir's heritage, Wazwan continues to inspire and enchant, preserving the essence of a culture that is as beautiful and intricate as the feast itself.