Embracing Winter: Traditional Pakistani comfort foods

Winter in Pakistan is all about the vibes. The cold air, cozy blankets, and hustle of family gatherings make winter the perfect season for staying in and reconnecting over food.

Pakistani winter comfort foods are rich, spicy, and nostalgic—like the Nihari your grandma made or the Gajar ka Halwa everyone fought over. They turn every meal into an experience.

These dishes aren’t just about getting warm—they are about connecting with tradition, reliving memories, and creating new ones.

Whether lounging on the couch or hosting a winter gathering, these iconic dishes will keep you warm and satisfied.

Popular winter dishes

Nihari

NihariShutterstock

Okay, if you haven't had Nihari yet, do yourself a favor and get on it. This slow-cooked beef or mutton stew is packed with flavors and spice, and it’s the definition of comfort food.

Nihari is usually eaten for breakfast and served with naan or paratha—because carbs in the morning just hit differently. The ginger, garlic, and whole spices mixed in the gravy make this dish elite when warming up on a chilly day. It’s the kind of dish you crave when the temperature drops and you want something hearty and satisfying.

Paya

PayaShutterstock

Let’s talk Paya—another winter classic. Paya is a rich trotter stew (yes, made from goat or beef feet) that’s slow-cooked overnight until the flavors deepen and the meat is fall-apart tender. The result? It's a dish so comforting that you'll keep dipping naan until you're delighted.

Gajar ka Halwa

Gajar ka HalwaShutterstock

Gajar ka Halwa isn’t just a dessert—it’s peak winter vibes with its perfect sweetness and spice combo. Made from grated carrots, milk, sugar, and cardamom, it’s simmered into a sweet, creamy pudding just next level. You’ll find it everywhere, from family feasts to street corners, especially during weddings.

And don’t forget the garnish of chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, whatever’s your jam). Gajar ka Halwa isn’t just a dessert; it’s a vibe. The sweetness + spice combo is peak winter goodness and hits every time.

Sooji ka Halwa

Sooji ka HalwaShutterstock

Another fan favorite is Sooji ka Halwa, made from semolina, ghee, and sugar. It’s the definition of cozy in a bowl. This dish is simple but comforting, with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a hit of cardamom flavor. Whether it’s a family get-together or a quick snack to fuel your winter day, Sooji ka Halwa is perfect for when you want something sweet but not too over the top.

Beverages to warm the soul

Kashmiri Chai

Kashmiri ChaiShutterstock

If there’s one drink that screams winter vibes, it’s Kashmiri Chai. This pink tea is everything. Made with green tea leaves, spices like cardamom, cinnamon, saffron, and a splash of milk, this drink is visually stunning (hello, pink tea!) and packed with flavor. It’s smooth, fragrant, and the perfect pick-me-up on a cold morning. Top it off with crushed pistachios or almonds for that extra fancy. Trust us, this tea is worth the hype.

Ginger Tea (Adrak Chai)

Adrak ChaiShutterstock

If you're feeling the chill and need extra heat, Adrak Chai is the way to go. The fresh kick of ginger combined with black tea is the ultimate winter comfort. This drink is like a hug in a cup, perfect for digestion and boosting immunity on cold winter days. Sip it while watching your favorite Netflix series and enjoy the warming sensation it brings.

Conclusion

Winter in Pakistan isn’t just about layering up—it’s about indulging in food that makes the season unforgettable. From hearty stews like Nihari and Paya to sweet indulgences like Gajar ka Halwa and Sooji ka Halwa, these traditional dishes are the true MVPs of the season. They bring warmth, nostalgia, and that undeniable comfort that only food can provide.

So next time you're looking for a way to make your winter even cozier, try one of these dishes, gather your squad, and enjoy the season the way it’s meant to be enjoyed: with good food, good company, and lots of good vibes.

What’s your go-to winter comfort food? Share your faves in the comments, and let’s swap cozy vibes!