Curious about Hyderabadi Nizami nashta? From Nihari paya to meethi daal, all you need to know

HYDERABAD: Hyderabad, renowned for its vibrant culture and heritage, is equally celebrated for its delectable 'Hyderabadi Nashta' or breakfast buffet. From the savory delights of Nihari Paya at Shadab Hotel to the aromatic Bhuna Kheema and Gurda Masala at Nayaab, the city presents a rich tapestry of Hyderabadi Nizami Nashta.

Notably, this culinary tradition extends beyond non-vegetarian fare to encompass a delightful array of vegetarian options, including Nashte Ka Besan, Saki Huwi Nan ki Roti, Khadi-Dal aur Soyeh ki Bhaji, and Meethi Daal to Mash-ki-Dal.

Also Read the Web Story: Curious about Hyderabadi Nizami nashta? From Nihari paya to meethi daal, all you need to know

Interestingly, even amidst the grandeur of his reign, Nizam VII Mir Osman Ali Khan preferred a modest breakfast, often opting for a simple toast or biscuit accompanied by chai. Despite orchestrating lavish spreads for others, his preference for a light start to the day reflected a sense of simplicity and mindfulness towards his diet, as recounted by Haseeb Jafferi, founder of Sufi Trails.

Javed Mohammed, a passionate food enthusiast from Hyderabad, extols the culinary delights of the iconic Nayaab hotel near the Madina building, renowned for its exquisite Nizami breakfast offerings. Among his favorites are the sumptuous Bheja fry, aromatic Bhuna Kheema, flavorful Nihari Paya, tantalising Gurda Masala, comforting Khichdi Khatta Keema, and the indulgent Kheema roti and Paya Masala. He particularly lauds Nayaab for serving the best Nihari Paya in the city, emphasising its status as one of the few establishments preserving the tradition of royal Nizami breakfast in Hyderabad.

Bheja Fry (Image Credits/Javeed Mohammed) 

While there are debates about the origins of Nihari Paya, with some attributing it to Lucknow, Javed Mohammed trusts the wisdom passed down by his elders, affirming that Nihari has its roots firmly entrenched in the rich culinary heritage of Hyderabad.

Javed Mohammed reminisces about his culinary expeditions across various cities, yet none compare to the regal indulgence of Hyderabad's Nizami breakfast. However, Javed Mohammed raises a concern about the modern evolution of culinary practices, which has led to a decline in the authentic preparation of these cherished dishes. He notes that many newer establishments, despite their enthusiasm, struggle to capture the essence and complexity of traditional Nizami breakfast, signaling a potential loss of culinary heritage.

Paradise Secunderabad, renowned for its Kheema, Tandoori Roti, and omelette, was a favored breakfast spot, especially for cricketers due to its proximity to Gymkhana. Regular visitors included notable cricketers like VVS Laxman, Venkatapathy Raju, and others, Javeed recalls.

 Breakfast at Sarvi Irani Cafe, Masab Tank (Image Credits/Javeed Mohammed)

Javeed reminisced about Nayaab hotel, a timeless gem where the Hyderabadi Nizami breakfast remains unparalleled even after 30 years. The menu boasts delectable items like Bhaji Gurda, Bheja Masala, keema, and Malai Paya, perfectly complemented by freshly baked nans.

Javeed added that the remarkable consistency in taste, aroma, and portion sizes is a testament to Nayaab's unwavering dedication to culinary excellence. This commitment has earned Nayaab a well-deserved place in the hearts and palates of its patrons throughout the years, he added.

Javeed suggests that Naayab Hotel, Shadab, Sarvi Hotel, Shah Ghouse and Paradise are currently the top spots for enjoying the best Hyderabadi naashta in the city.

Here are some of the best Hyderabadi Nashtas

Nashte ka Besan - This is a very basic breakfast dish called Nashte Ka besan made from chickpea Flour is a mild spicy paste which goes well with roti.

Nashte Ka Besan ((Image Credits/Haseeb Jafferi/Sufi Trails)

Saki Huwi Nan ki Roti - An old Hyderabadi hack involves gently roasting one-day-old Nan ki roti on a pan with a brush of ghee until you see a golden crust on the hind side.

Saki Huwi Nan Ki Roti (Image Credits/Haseeb Jafferi/Sufi Trails)

Mash-ki-Dal - A simple breakfast dish featuring mildly flavored boiled urad dal (black gram), garnished with fried onions and hara masala.

Mash-Ki-Dal (Image Credits/Haseeb Jafferi/Sufi Trails)

Khadi-Dal aur Soyeh ki Bhaji -Combining a basic masoor ki dal with Soyeh ki Bhaji ceates a unique flavor profile, perfect for a satisfying meal.

Khadi-Dal aur Soyeh ki Bhaji (Image Credits/Haseeb Jafferi/Sufi Trails)

Meethi Daal - An all-time favorite nashta of Hyderabadi's, Mithi Daal, is made with roasted moong dal, a dash of green chili, hara masala, and talli huwi pyaz, offering a delightful and flavorful breakfast option.

 Meethi Dal (Image Credits/Haseeb Jafferi/Sufi Trails)

Nihari Paya - Nihari Paya is a popular dish in Hyderabad made from slow-cooked trotters and shank meat, simmered in spices, and served with rice.

Nihari Paya, Sarvi Irani Cafe Hotel (Image Credits/Javeed Mohammed)

Kheema Roti -Kheema Roti is a delectable dish of minced lamb cooked with spices and herbs, served with roti, a traditional Indian flatbread, for a satisfying meal.

Kheema Roti, Paradise Restaurant Secunderabad (Image Credits/Javeed Mohammed)

Bheja fry - Bheja fry is a rich and decadent dish made with lamb brain, spices, and herbs.

Khichdi Khatta Kheema ((Image Credits/Javeed Mohammed)

Khichdi Khatta Kheema - Khichdi Khatta Keema is a satisfying and balanced meal that combines the simplicity of rice and lentils with the tangy of minced meat.

 Bhunna Kheema, Nayaab Hotel (Image Credits/Javeed Mohammed)

Bhuna Kheema : Bhuna Kheema is a hearty, savory dish made by slow-cooking minced lamb with aromatic spices and herbs until rich and well-browned.

Gurda Masala, Nayaab Hotel (Image Credits/Javeed Mohammed) 

Gurda Masala : Gurda Masala is a delicious breakfast dish served at Nayaab hotel, made with Gurda, complemented by spices for a perfect breakfast experience.