Punjab is known for its rich flavors and hearty dishes. The cuisine is full of ghee, butter, and aromatic spices, making it one of the most loved in India. Here are ten famous Punjabi foods that everyone should try.
1. Makki di Roti & Sarson da Saag
This classic dish is a winter favorite in Punjab. Makki di Roti is a flatbread made from corn flour, while Sarson da Saag is a mustard greens curry cooked with spices and butter. It is best enjoyed with white butter and jaggery.
Best Place: Kesar Da Dhaba, Amritsar.
2. Amritsari Kulcha
This stuffed bread is a popular choice for breakfast. It is filled with mashed potatoes, spices, and sometimes paneer. Cooked in a tandoor, Amritsari Kulcha has a crispy texture and is served with chole (chickpea curry) and pickles.
Best Place: Kulcha Land, Amritsar.
3. Chole Bhature
A widely loved dish, Chole Bhature consists of spicy chickpeas (chole) served with deep-fried, fluffy bread (bhature). It is often paired with onions, pickles, and a glass of lassi.
Best Place: Sita Ram Diwan Chand, Amritsar.
4. Dal Makhani
This slow-cooked lentil dish is creamy, rich, and full of flavors. Made with black lentils, butter, and cream, Dal Makhani is best served with naan or rice.
Best Place: Brother’s Dhaba, Amritsar.
5. Paneer Tikka
A favorite among vegetarians, Paneer Tikka consists of paneer cubes marinated in yogurt and spices, then grilled to perfection. It is served with mint chutney and onion rings.
Best Place: Bittu Tikki Wala, Ludhiana.
6. Butter Chicken
This famous Punjabi dish is loved worldwide. Butter Chicken is prepared by cooking chicken in a rich tomato-based gravy with butter and cream. It pairs well with naan or jeera rice.
Best Place: Moti Mahal, Amritsar.
7. Rajma Chawal
A simple yet satisfying dish, Rajma Chawal consists of red kidney beans cooked in a tomato-based gravy, served with steamed rice. It is a common comfort food in Punjabi households.
Best Place: Kesar Da Dhaba, Amritsar.
8. Pinni
A traditional Punjabi sweet, Pinni is made from wheat flour, ghee, sugar, and dry fruits. It is often prepared during winters as it provides warmth and energy.
Best Place: Gopal Sweets, Ludhiana.
9. Lassi
No Punjabi meal is complete without Lassi. This yogurt-based drink is thick, creamy, and refreshing. It can be sweet or salty, but the most popular version is topped with malai (cream) and served in tall glasses.
Best Place: Ahuja Lassi, Amritsar.
10. Tandoori Chicken
Tandoori Chicken is a famous dish where chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices, then roasted in a tandoor. It has a smoky flavor and is often served with green chutney and onion rings.
Best Place: Beera Chicken House, Amritsar.
Conclusion
Punjabi food is known for its rich taste, bold flavors, and hearty meals. Whether you love vegetarian dishes like Sarson da Saag or meat-based ones like Butter Chicken, Punjab’s cuisine has something for everyone. If you haven’t tried these yet, it’s time to enjoy the authentic flavors of Punjab!