Welcome to the gastronomical paradise of Amritsar, where the streets are paved with saffron and the air is infused with the aroma of freshly cooked spices. This vibrant city in the heart of Punjab is not only famous for its spiritual significance but also for its culinary delights that leave your taste buds singing with joy. From the crispy golden-brown kulchas to the creamy and buttery lassis, Amritsar cuisine has something to offer to every foodie’s soul. So get ready to embark on a flavorful journey through the alleys of Amritsar, as we explore the eight must-try dishes that will take you on a culinary adventure of a lifetime.
1. Guru Ka Langar & Kada Prasad –
When in Amritsar, the first thing that you should try is Guru ka Langar. This is a free community kitchen that serves food to thousands of people every day at the Golden Temple. The food is prepared by volunteers who dedicate their time and efforts to feeding the hungry. The meal consists of simple yet delicious food like dal, rice, roti, and kheer. The highlight of this meal is the Kada Prasad, a sweet pudding made with equal parts of wheat flour, sugar, and ghee. This divine dessert will leave you feeling blessed.
2. Amritsari Kulcha –
Amritsari Kulcha is a famous North Indian bread that is popular all over the country. However, the one you get in Amritsar is in a league of its own. The kulcha is made with maida and stuffed with a spicy potato filling. It is then cooked in a tandoor until it is crisp and golden brown. The kulcha is served with a dollop of butter and a side of chole. This heavenly combination is a must-try for all food lovers.
3. Sarso Da Saag And Makki Di Roti –
A dish that has the power to make you forget all your troubles – Sarso Da Saag and Makki Di Roti. It is a combination of mustard leaves and cornbread, and it’s the perfect dish for a cold winter day. The soft and fluffy rotis are complemented by the spicy and flavorful saag, which is made with mustard greens, spinach, and other spices. This dish is like a symphony where each ingredient plays its unique tune and comes together to create a masterpiece. The mustard leaves are like the lead vocalist, while the cornbread is like the backup singer, adding depth and texture to the dish. The flavours are so intense that it’s hard to believe that such simple ingredients can create such magic.
4. Lassi –
When it comes to refreshing drinks, Lassi is a popular choice in Amritsar. This yoghurt-based drink is thick, creamy, and comes in various flavours too. It’s the perfect drink to cool you down on a hot summer day. Lassi is like a cool breeze on a warm and hot day. It’s refreshing, rejuvenating and quenches your thirst like no other drink. The thick and creamy texture is like a hug from a loved one, comforting and satisfying. It’s a drink that you’ll want to savour every sip of.
5. Jalebi –
Jalebi is a deep-fried sweet dish popular across India, but Amritsari Jalebi has a unique taste and texture that sets it apart. It’s made by deep-frying maida flour in a circular shape and then soaking it in sugar syrup. Jalebi is like a fireworks show, bursting with flavour and colour. The golden brown circles are like fireworks, bright and vibrant, and the sugar syrup is like the explosion of flavour in your mouth. The crisp exterior and the soft interior are like a perfect balance of yin and yang.
6. Chole Bhature –
Chole Bhature is a dish that is loved by all. The chickpea curry is paired with deep-fried bread, and it’s the perfect dish for a lazy Sunday brunch. The chole is made with a blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, and garam masala, giving it a unique flavour that is hard to resist. Chole Bhature is like a dance between two lovers, the chole and bhature. The dish is so good that you’ll want to dance with joy after having it.
7. Amritsari Fish Tikkas –
If you’re a seafood lover, then the Amritsari Fish Tikka is something you should try. It’s a dish that has a unique blend of spices and herbs that is sure to leave you wanting more. The fish is marinated in a mixture of gram flour, carom seeds, and other spices and then grilled to perfection. The dish is crispy on the outside, and soft and succulent on the inside. Amritsari Fish Tikka is like a painting, with each ingredient adding its unique touch of colour to the canvas.
8. Kulfas –
Kulfa, also known as Kulfi, is a popular Indian dessert made with thickened milk, sugar, and a variety of flavours. It’s the perfect dessert to beat the heat during the summer months. It’s a frozen treat with a creamy and rich texture, and the flavours are something you will savour for a long time. Kulfa is like a symphony of flavours, each note playing its unique tune to create a beautiful harmony. The thickened milk is like the bass, providing the foundation for the other flavours to stand out. The sugar is like the melody, sweet and captivating, and the flavours are like the instruments, adding depth and character to the dish. The dish is a melody that you will want to hum for days.
Amritsar is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of dishes that are not just delicious but also carry a touch of history and tradition. So, pack your bags and head to Amritsar to explore these dishes and indulge in a gastronomical adventure like no other.
