Vinod Singh  2025-08-16

Siddu – Traditional Himachali Food Recipe & Famous Halwai Guide

Himachal Pradesh, with its breathtaking landscapes and snow-capped mountains, is equally famous for its rich culinary heritage. Among its many delicacies, Siddu is a traditional steamed bread that holds a special place in the hearts of locals and tourists alike. If you're traveling through Himachal and wondering what to try, ask any local, and they'll guide you to a famous halwai known for making authentic Siddu.

    What is Siddu?

Siddu is a soft, steamed wheat bun, typically filled with a savory mixture of poppy seeds (khus khus), walnuts, paneer, or lentils. It’s mostly enjoyed during winter, served warm with desi ghee, green chutney, or mutton curry.

What makes Siddu so special is the way it's prepared—slow fermentation and steaming create a soft, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth. Many famous halwai in Himachal Pradesh have perfected this age-old recipe and are keeping the tradition alive.

    How to Prepare Siddu – Traditional Himachali Recipe

 Ingredients

For Dough:

• 2 cups wheat flour

• 1/2 tsp dry yeast

• Warm water

• Salt

For Filling:

• 2 tbsp poppy seeds (khus khus)

• 1/2 cup crushed walnuts

• 1/2 cup grated paneer (optional)

• Green chilies, coriander, salt, garam masala

    Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Dough: Dissolve yeast in warm water, add to wheat flour and salt, knead and allow to ferment for 2–3 hours.

2. Make the Filling: Grind soaked poppy seeds and mix with walnuts, paneer, spices, and herbs.

3. Assemble: Roll dough, add filling, and seal it into buns.

4. Steam: Steam for 15–20 minutes until cooked and fluffy.

5. Serve: Brush with ghee and serve hot.

📍 Where is Siddu Popular in Himachal Pradesh?

Siddu is most loved in the colder parts of Himachal such as:

• Rohru

• Rampur

• Kinnaur

• Kullu

• Mandi

• Shimla (especially the Lakkar Bazar area)

These areas are home to many famous halwai shops that have been serving Siddu for generations.

      Where to Eat Siddu from a Famous Halwai

If you want to taste the most authentic Siddu, seek out a famous halwai in Himachal Pradesh. Here are some of the top places:

      Famous Halwai Shops for Siddu:

1. Sharma Ji Siddu Wale (Rohru)
   Renowned for traditional Siddu with walnut-poppy seed filling. A must-visit for foodies.

2. Thakur Halwai (Rampur Bushahr)
   Known for its wood-steamed Siddu and chutneys.

3. Lakkar Bazar Halwai, Shimla
   Street-style Siddu with ghee and mint chutney – perfect for tourists.

4. Manali Local Halwai Shops (Mall Road)
   Offers a modern twist on Siddu with cheese or mushroom filling, alongside traditional ones.

5. Karsog & Mandi Roadside Dhabas
   Many unnamed but locally famous halwais serve Siddu that’s as good as home-cooked.

    Why "Famous Halwai" is a Key to Finding the Best Siddu

Using the phrase “famous halwai” in your Himachal food trail search ensures you're directed to vendors with a proven legacy. Many of these halwais operate small, family-run establishments and have been featured in local travel guides or YouTube food vlogs for their exceptional Siddu.

So, whether you’re backpacking or road-tripping, always ask the locals:

“Yahan ka famous halwai kaun hai jahan ka Siddu sabse achha milta hai?”

You’ll discover not only the dish but also the story, tradition, and heart behind it.

Don’t Leave Himachal Without Trying Siddu from a Famous Halwai

From the snowy rooftops of Kinnaur to the bustling streets of Shimla, the legacy of the famous halwai making Siddu lives on. It's more than just food—it's a bite of Himachali culture wrapped in tradition.