The land of five rivers, Punjab is well-known for its hospitality, culture, lively festivals, celebrations, and food. With the vast number of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes with rich, buttery flavors, these classic Punjabi foods lure food lovers all over the world.
Here are some of the classic Punjabi Foods that you could not resist:
1. Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken, no doubt, is one of the best dishes in Punjab. This creamy, rich gravy with tender chicken pieces has popularity all over the world.
You can have your butter chicken with steamed Basmati rice, Roti, or naan. The creamy gravy made of tomato, spices, butter, fresh cream, along other ingredients tastes heavenly.
2. Tandoori Chicken
Originated in the united Punjab around late 1940, the Tandoori Chicken never fails to impress the newbies. The red, succulent appetizer is really hard to resist.
Even though the red color of the food seems spicy, this Punjabi dish is nutritious and flavorful. Slowly cooked with a lot of time, the tender pieces go well with some chutney and naan.
3. Parantha
The classic food of Punjab, Parantha, is one of the most common dishes in the country. Freshly cooked parathas with a spoon of ghee or butter in the morning will make your day more vibrant.
You can use different stuffing while making paratha like mashed potatoes, cauliflower, paneer, etc. Have it with some cold curd and pickle.
4. Chole-Bhature
Coming from the streets to the restaurants, this authentic Punjabi dish, Chole Bhatore, has won our hearts. The hot golden pieces of bhatore with the spicy chole are like a match made in heaven.
Chole Bhatore is a staple breakfast in many households in Punjab as well as all over India. The spices of the Bhatore will burst in your mouth. Drink a glass of chilled lassi with it to counter the spiciness.
5. Chana Masala
The savory dish, Chana Masala, is perfect for lunch, dinner, and even breakfast. This chickpea curry tastes best with either a paratha or naan.
The recipe for Chana Masala uses a handful of spices, including onion, tomatoes, ghee, cumin, turmeric, garlic, chilies, ginger, and more. The spicy, tangy, and sweet taste is a temptation to any food lover.
6. Rajma Chawal
Rajma Chawal is the comfort food to have on a rough day. This classic dish is cooked in almost every household in north India.
This Punjabi dish tastes delectable withh a side of pickled onions to enhance the taste. You can also add a little bit of crushed papad to their rajma Chawal to give it a nice crunch.
7. Makki ki Roti and Sarson ka Saag
Makki ki roti and Sarson ka Saag are like the Indian version of mac and cheese. This classic winter dish is also healthy for your health.
The Sarson ka Saag (mustard leaves) has a bitter taste. You can add spinach, methi, and turnip leaves to enhance the flavor. The hot piece of Roti with Sarson ka Saag and fresh jaggeryb taste delicious.
8. Amritsari Fish
Surrounded by five rivers, fish is one of the main food ingredients in many Punjabi Households. The classic Amritsari fish is one of the best foods in Punjabi cuisine for its unique taste.
Have it with naan or just the fried piece. The succulent and tender fishes with a crispy outside will melt in your mouth. Have a glass of cold lassi if you think it’s too spicy.
9. Amritsari Kulcha
Coming from the royal kitchens, Kulchas are a dish for the emperors. The stuffing used in the preparation is vegetables or meat.
Even though the origin of this dish is Hyderabad, the Amritsari kulcha version has made its name in the world of bread. Stuffed with mashed potatoes and served with chana, the food is a must-try.
10. Pinni
The Punjabi dish, Pinni, is like an embrace of a mother in the cold. This hot sweet dessert is the perfect winter dish.
Made with desi ghee, wheat flour, jaggery, and almonds, Pinni will satisfy your sweet tooth. It is also a high source of protein, but try to avoid eating too much.