‘Sheer Khurma’: The Undisputed Heart of Eid Tables in the Capital

Hina Durrani 

Islamabad: Across Islamabad, Eid celebrations are marked by a vibrant display of traditions, hospitality, and shared joy, but one culinary delight continues to claim the spotlight on festive tables: ‘Sheer Khurma’.

From the first morning of Eid to the last, this rich and aromatic dessert, made with fine vermicelli, milk, dates, sugar, and a generous mix of dry fruits, is more than just a sweet treat, it is a symbol of warmth, family bonds, and cultural continuity. 

Passed down through generations, ‘Sheer Khurma’ embodies the essence of Eid in households across the federal capital.

On the first day, kitchens buzz with activity as families prepare fresh batches to serve guests arriving to exchange greetings. 

By the second and third days, the dessert remains front and center—sometimes made anew, other times enhanced with extra garnishes, ensuring that every visitor can partake in this age-old tradition.

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For many, ‘Sheer Khurma’ is inseparable from Eid itself. Raheela, a university student living in Sector G-7, shared with APP, “’Sheer Khurma’ is the first dish we offer to guests. It is not just food, it’s part of our identity, our childhood memories, and the spirit of togetherness.”

Similarly, Ateeqa from Sector G-10 noted, “Eid feels incomplete without ‘Sheer Khurma’. Families gather to share bowls of it, serving it to guests as a gesture of hospitality. It is a tradition we have followed for generations.”

The lead-up to Eid sees markets across the capital bustling with shoppers stocking up on ingredients like dates, dry fruits, and vermicelli. Vendors report that, despite rising prices, demand remains high, a testament to the dessert’s cultural significance.

Food experts observe that while modern desserts and fusion dishes have found their way into Eid menus, ‘Sheer Khurma’ retains its dominance. Some households experiment with condensed milk or alternative nuts, but the core of the dish, its rich flavor and festive symbolism, remains unchanged.

In Islamabad, ‘Sheer Khurma’ is more than a dessert; it is a delicious reminder of heritage, unity, and the joy of sharing. 

Over steaming bowls of milk and vermicelli, families reconnect, stories are shared, and communities come together, making it the true heart of Eid celebrations in the capital.