When you hear the name Punjab, images of green fields, gorgeous farms, and, of course, the exceedingly joyful and loving people of Punjab come to mind. But who could forget Punjab’s culinary delights? Punjabi cuisine is similar to its people in that it is warm, robust, rich, and full of life. That is why Punjabi cuisine is so popular in the United States and around the world.
Punjabi cuisine’s diversity is astounding to say the least. They have something for everyone, whether you’re a die-hard meat eater or a perennial vegetarian. The roadside dhabas found along Punjab’s motorways are one of the most popular places to eat Punjabi food. There’s a reason they’re so popular, and anyone who’s tried them knows exactly what we’re talking about.
Here are the list of 10 Punjabi foods you simply must eat.
Sarson Ka Saag Aur Makki Ki Roti
During the winter, this delectable delicacy is served. Because mustard is widely farmed in Punjab and other northern provinces, it is a local favourite. It’s made of mustard leaves and served with cornmeal rotis, as we all know. It’s Priyanka Chopra’s all-time favourite dish. Visit Haveli in Jalandhar, and taste this meal at Bansi Vaishno Dhaba in Ludhiana. Sarson is served at Special Amritsari Kulcha in Panchkula, and Lucky Dhaba and Sethi Dhaba in Zirakpur. Go to Bharawan da Dhaba in Amritsar. Pind Balluchi, Punjab Grill, and Bikanervala are all must-sees in Delhi.
Butter Chicken
You can’t have a list of Punjabi foods without include Butter Chicken. Tender chicken chunks are encased in a flavorful creamy gravy. You’ll be addicted after just one mouthful.
Dal Makhani
If the traditional procedure is followed, this delectable lentil dish will take a day to prepare. It’s the king of dals, with a high protein content. When Julia Roberts was filming ‘Eat, Pray, Love,’ she was allegedly fed Dal Makhani, which she reportedly adored! The dal at Moti Mahal in Old Delhi is legendary. Try the dal in Amritsar’s Kesar da Dhaba, Ludhiana’s Zimidara Dhaba, Jalandhar’s Lucky Dhaba, Karnal Haveli in Karnal, and Bathinda’s Amrik da Dhaba.
Phirni
Finally, let us honour Punjab with a delicious dessert from Amritsar known as Phirni. This white-hued dish is made with crushed rice, milk, and a plethora of dried fruit bits. This delicacy is commonly consumed during festivities. The fact that phirni is served in traditional earthen pots is one of its most appealing features. Who can say no to a cooled dessert with rose petals strewn across it? This wonderful sweet treat is known to be made in several prominent and historic stores in Amritsar, and you must try it on your next visit there.
Lassi
It’s commonly consumed across the country as a coolant, but the finest way to enjoy it is in clay pots full of rich, creamy, and frothy lassi. Some people in Punjab produce lassi on a massive scale and churn it with washing machines. Stop at Sukhdev Dhaba if you’re passing through Murthal. Try the lassi at Ahuja Milk Bhandar, Gian Chand Lassi Wale, and Kundan’s in Amritsar. In Delhi, while exploring Old Delhi, Amritsari Lassiwalla and Meghraj, among others, serve excellent lassi in Chandini Chowk. Try the lassi at Kesar da Dhaba in Chandigarh.
Amritsari Kulcha
The Kulcha is synonymous with Amritsar. Amritsar’s Amritsari Kulcha is well-known throughout India. And there isn’t a finer breakfast option in Amritsar than this. The kulcha is stuffed with potatoes, cauliflower, paneer, and a variety of specific masalas before being cooked in a tandoor and slathered in butter or ghee. It’s served with spicy chole and chopped onions, as well as raita or lassi in some places. You won’t be able to get enough of this delicious and filling lunch. The crispy Amritsari Kulcha may be found in a number of good restaurants and shops throughout the city.
Chole Bhature
Chole Bhatura, also known as Chana Bhatura, is a delectable dish that may be found in north Indian dhabas (roadside cafes) or Indian restaurants. With a puffy Indian bread called a Bhatura, a spicy, traditional chana masala or chole masala is served. It’s delectable cuisine. The chana masala is gluten-free, vegan, nut-free, and soy-free.
Tandoori Chicken
Slowly and gently grilling it guarantees that every mouthful is brimming with delicious chunks of this divine meal beloved in India and around the world. Its blazing red colour and distinct flavour entice you to want more! In India, even Burger King has a Tandoori Chicken variant. Visit Surjit Chicken House and Beera Chicken House in Amritsar. This delectable delicacy is served at Baba’s Chicken and Aman Chicken in Ludhiana. Tandoori Chicken is available at Papaji Dhaba in Mohali. Chicken may be found in Karim’s, Moti Mahal, and Bukhara in Delhi.
Palak Paneer
Because the spinach is the star of the dish, it would undoubtedly be high on Popeye’s list of favourites. Emraan Hashmi can’t get enough of this meal and eats it on a daily basis! It’s normally eaten in the winter, but it’s such a hit that it’s eaten all year. When it comes to making this dish, Amritsar’s Kesar da Dhaba comes out on top
Aloo Parantha
When two simple veggies are combined with fragrant and flavorful spices, the result is a mouthwatering experience. It’s a simple recipe that’s popular in many households around the country. It comes in a variety of flavours, all of which are equally delicious. This simple yet flavorful dish can be found in practically every restaurant and eatery in Delhi, Punjab, and Chandigarh.