Winter is the perfect time to indulge in some hearty, warming and delicious Punjabi cuisine. The traditional dishes of Punjab are known for their rich and aromatic flavours and are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Here are some of the best Punjabi cuisines to try at home this winter:
Kada Parshad
Kada Parshad is a popular Punjabi dish that is made with whole wheat flour, ghee and sugar. Visitors at gurdwaras are offered this dish, which holds a significant religious meaning. It is made daily at the Gurdwara with a unique flavour of devotion and served in the true Sikh spirit of equality among all. It is a treat that kids are particularly fond of and is best enjoyed hot.
Langar Ki Dal
The Langar Ki Dal is a rich and creamy Punjabi dish that is made with Split black urad lentil and chana lentil. The lentils are cooked with whole spices and stirred to become thick and creamy. This adds to the flavour and is usually served after tempering it. As a protein-rich dish, it is also served as a parshad in Gurudwaras.
Meethe Chawal
Meethe Chawal is a traditional Punjabi dessert made with long-grained, highly aromatic Basmati rice and sugar syrup. This saffron-coloured dish is usually served flavoured with cardamoms, cloves, cinnamon and Kesar. Dry fruits like pistachios, almonds, walnuts, cashews and raisins are added to enhance the flavour of this awesome recipe. It is one of the most loved dishes of Punjabi households.
Chana Dal Khichdi
The Chana Dal Khichdi is a simple but flavorful recipe made using rice and chana lentils. It is a one-pot meal that is delectable and easy to prepare. The khichdi, with lots of flavours and texture, will surely make everyone crave more. It is a wholesome nutritious meal in itself, which is an added benefit.
Makki ki Roti with Sarso ka Saag
Makki ki Roti with Sarso ka Saag is a classic North Indian dish that is not only easy to make but healthy too. The dish is cooked in a manner that preserves all nutrients of green leaves, accompanied by bread made from cornmeal. It is usually served with a dollop of white butter or Makhan and is soul-warming during the chilling winter season in Northern India.
Palak Paneer
One of the most popular Punjabi dishes is Palak Paneer, which has a thick spinach gravy made by blending cooked spinach leaves and seasoning them with ginger, garlic, garam masala, and other spices. This dish is usually served with a generous serving of ghee, which helps keep you warm during the winter season.
Amritsari Kulcha recipe
A quick and delicious Punjabi dish that can be prepared within 20-25 minutes is Kulcha, which can be enjoyed on any occasion, whether it's a dinner party, a potluck or a special weekend dinner. The dough is seasoned with various spices and made with all-purpose flour, then rolled out and stuffed with different fillings before being cooked on a Tawa (pan) using oil or ghee. It is usually served with chole curry or plain curd, making it a perfect meal for breakfast, lunch or dinner. There are various types of kulchas to choose from, such as onion kulcha, Nutri kulcha and even new varieties like pizza kulcha and mushroom kulcha.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Punjabi cuisine is a rich blend of spicy, tangy and mouth-watering flavours that have been passed down from generation to generation. Whether it's the soul-warming Makki ki Roti with Sarso ka Saag or the deliciously creamy Palak Paneer, these dishes are a delight to the senses and perfect for the chilly winter season. Kada Parshad, Langar Ki Dal, Meethe Chawal, Chana Dal Khichdi, and Amritsari Kulcha are just a few of the many Punjabi dishes that you can easily prepare at home to treat your taste buds.
So, why not try your hand at these recipes and experience the joy of Punjabi cuisine in the comfort of your own home this winter? With their unique taste and blend of spices, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your heart. So, go ahead and explore the vibrant and delicious world of Punjabi cuisine!
