When it comes to Mughlai specialities, don’t forget this one: Mutanjan, as it is called, is a popular desert in Pakistan, but in India, it’s not as easily available. In Lucknow, there is only one street food joint that still serves this dish, but it’s made only on order.
WHAT IS MUTANJAN?
Mutanjan may look a lot like biryani, but it actually is a dessert made with mutton and rice. It’s not to be confused with zarda, or meetha chawal. What’s so unique about Mutanjan? It is cooked with boneless meat, marinated in butter-milk and cream boiling, over wood fire. It is the flavour of saffron and rose-water puree blended with nuts, drops of itra, lemon juice and kewra water which lend Mutanjan rice a flavour that you cannot have enough of. A spoonful of ghee, some elaichi and rose petals garnishing and the dish is ready to be served!
WHERE CAN I GET MUTANJAN?
Only at Raheem’s, in Chowk, which is best known for its Nahari-Kulcha. While Mutanjan is usually available around Bakreid, you can place an order for it at any other time of the year as well. Haji Zubair, who makes this delicacy at Raheem’s, say this culinary skill and recipe for Mutanjan has been passed down to him from his great grandfather. For Mutanjan, you would have to place an order a day in advance, since it is a time-taking recipe. The restaurant has a seating of 20-25 people but if you plan to visit in a group of 3 or more, we recommend take away or home delivery, because we know it’s difficult to get in those lanes.
Price: Rs. 500 per kg
Timings: 11 am to 9 pm
Location: Raheem’s Near Akabri Gate, Chowk, Lucknow
