Punjab – The land of five rivers, is known for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. Punjabi food is famous for its rich flavours, spices, and hearty portions. The cuisine here is influenced by Mughal, Afghan, and British recipes, resulting in a unique and diverse food scene. Punjabi cuisine has everything to cover each corner of your platter, from traditional breakfast dishes like chole bhature to delectable desserts like phirni and gajar ka halwa.
So, join us on this culinary journey as we explore the rich food culture and traditions of Punjab. Also, discover some must-try dishes that have made Punjab’s cuisine famous worldwide.
Table of Contents
Traditional Punjabi Breakfast Dishes
Breakfast in Punjab usually includes a variety of delicious traditional dishes. Let’s look at some of the must-try popular Punjabi breakfast options:
- Chole Bhatura: The dish consists of a spicy, tangy Chole and fluffy, deep-fried Bhature. This full and savoury morning dish is best served with pickles, onions, and green chutney.
- Stuffed Parantha: This is a type of flatbread stuffed with various fillings such as potatoes, cauliflower, paneer, or radish. It’s then rolled out and cooked on a hot griddle or tawa with oil or ghee. Paranthas are a nutritious and filling breakfast dish that can be enjoyed with a side of yoghurt, pickle, or chutney.
- Chola Kulcha: A must-try dish in Amritsar, Chola Kulcha combines spicy chickpea curry and soft, fluffy kulchas baked in a tandoor (clay oven). It’s a delicious and filling breakfast option that is perfect for those who enjoy spicy food.
Popular Punjabi Vegetarian Main Course Dishes
Punjab is also counted as a vegetarian paradise, with a vast array of delicious vegetarian dishes that people all over India and abroad love. Here are some popular Punjabi vegetarian dishes you must try while in Punjab:
- Sarson ka Saag and Makki ki Roti – This classic dish is made with mustard greens and spinach cooked together and served with Makki ki Roti. The dish is slow-cooked with spices and ghee, giving it a rich, earthy flavour. It’s a nutritious and satisfying meal that is best enjoyed with butter, pickles, and radish on the side.
- Rajma with Rice – Rajma is another popular Punjabi dish that you can enjoy with rice. The dish is made with a blend of spices, and garam masala, giving it a warm and aromatic flavour. It’s a protein-packed meal, mostly preferred for lunch.
- Kadhi with Rice – Kadhi is a yoghurt-based curry that is made with gram flour, spices, and vegetables like onion and tomato. It’s a tangy flavoured cuisine that is served with rice.
Must-Try Non-Vegetarian Main Course Dishes in Punjab
Punjab has a long history of non-vegetarian cuisine, and the popularity of meat dishes in the state is unparalleled. Punjabis are known for their classic vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Some of the must-try dishes are:
- Butter Chicken – Butter chicken is one of the most well-known Indian meals in the world. The dish is made with boneless chicken pieces marinated in yoghurt and a mixture of spices. This meal is a must-try and is best savoured with rice or naan.
- Tandoori Chicken – Tandoori chicken is a popular classic Punjabi dish marinated in yoghurt and a mixture of spices before being cooked in a tandoor or clay oven. It is a tasty and nutritious dish that is ideal for dinner at family gatherings.
- Amritsari Fish – If you’re a seafood lover, you can’t miss out on Amritsari fish. This dish is made with boneless pieces of fish being deep-fried to perfection. The fish is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and it’s served with a side of mint chutney and lemon wedges.
Punjabi Desserts
Punjabi desserts are renowned for their rich, creamy and mouthwatering flavours, and no Punjabi meal is complete without one. Some must-try Punjabi sweets are listed below:
- Phirni – It is a creamy rice pudding flavoured with cardamom and saffron. It is made by cooking rice flour in milk and sugar in a flat khullad (earthen pot). The dish is garnished with sliced almonds and pistachios and is served chilled. It is a must-try dessert, especially during the summer months.
- Gajar ka Halwa – Gajar ka halwa is a sweet dish made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee. The halwa is then garnished with sliced almonds and served hot. It’s a perfect dessert for the winter months and is often made during festivals like Diwali and Holi.
- Kulfi – Kulfi is a frozen dessert that is like ice cream but has a denser and creamier texture. It is made with milk, and sugar, and garnished with cardamom, saffron, and pistachios. Kulfi is a popular dessert in Punjab, often enjoyed on hot summer days.
Popular Punjabi Drinks
Punjabi drinks are a perfect complement to the tasty Punjabi cuisine. These refreshing and delicious drinks are a must-try for anyone visiting Punjab, and they offer a unique and unforgettable culinary experience. The top three of them are listed below:
- Lassi – It is a traditional Punjabi drink that is made with yoghurt, water, and sugar. It’s a thick, creamy drink perfect for a hot summer day. Lassi is available in a variety of flavours, including classic sweet, rose, peda (Indian sweet), and mango. Saffron or nuts can be added as a garnish.
- Chaach – The popular Punjabi beverage chaach, also known as buttermilk, is taken before and after meals for its refreshing and digestive properties. It is frequently served cold and is flavoured with mint leaves and roasted cumin powder.
- Kesar Sharbat – Kesar Sharbat is a popular Punjabi drink that is made with saffron, sugar, and water. It’s a sweet and fragrant drink that is perfect for any occasion. Kesar Sharbat is often served with ice and garnished with sliced almonds and pistachios.
Where to Eat in Punjab?
Known for its rich and diverse culinary heritage, Punjab offers multiple dining options that cater to all tastes and preferences. You can easily find top eating places in Amritsar, Chandigarh, Ludhiana and other towns and villages of Punjab.
Restaurants
All the cities of Punjab have some luxurious dining spots, which include luxurious, roof-top and fine-dining restaurants. Here are some of the top suggestions for you to explore.
- Rustic Punjab – Ludhiana
- Love Italy – Jalandhar
- WelcomCafe Phulkari, Hotel ITC – Amritsar
- Bistro Flamme Bois – Ludhiana
Cafes
Cafes in Punjab offer a unique blend of traditional Punjabi flavours and modern cuisine. These cafes are popular among youth, offering diners a vibrant and relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best cafes are:
- Elgin Café – Amritsar
- Coffee House – Ludhiana
- Hungry Owl Café – Jalandhar
- The Hedgehog Café – Chandigarh
Dhabas
Dhabas are an essential part of Punjabi culture and cuisine. These traditional eateries offer delicious and authentic Punjabi food at affordable prices, making them a popular dining option for locals and tourists alike.
- Raja Dhaba – Khant (Also popular as Babbu Maan’s village)
- Kesar Da Dhaba – Amritsar
- Friends Dhaba – Ludhiana
- Lucky Dhaba – Jalandhar
Conclusion
In conclusion, Punjab’s culinary heritage truly reflects the state’s vibrant culture, history, and traditions. From delectable vegetarian dishes to mouthwatering non-vegetarian delicacies, Punjab’s cuisine will completely satisfy your taste buds with traditional spices. In addition to its food, Punjab is also known for its warm hospitality, which is evident in its famous dhabas and restaurants. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or casual street food, Punjab’s culinary scene will surely leave you satisfied and wanting more.
So, the next time you’re in Punjab, don’t forget to explore the local food scene and indulge in some of the state’s famous dishes.
