Why is Punjabi food so popular?
You may have all probably heard of Indian food and its delectable treats. In actuality, the Punjabi Rasoi (Punjabi kitchen) is the source of 90% of the popular Indian cuisine that is consumed worldwide. Punjabi food is among the most well-known cuisines in the world. It is well-liked not just in India but also in the US, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. The popularity of real Punjabi food has grown to the point that it has influenced popular culture in the West. If you're curious about what makes this cuisine so popular, then here is all you need to know about traditional Punjabi food.
What is Punjabi food?
Punjabi food is widely known for being comfort food that feeds the soul as well as the body. With its flavorful combinations, fragrant spices, and filling meals, it has made a name for itself on the international culinary scene. Chefs from around the world innovate with classic recipes, giving modern touches without sacrificing the flavor profile of Punjabi food.
Eating and cooking in Punjab are intrinsically linked to the Punjabi people. It is simple, straightforward, and easy to prepare. One of the richest and most nutrient-dense meals in India is Punjabi food, which is defined by generous portions of fresh cream, butter, and ghee. They use tandoor, a clay oven, which makes it authentic Punjabi food. It gives a unique, smoky aroma to the food.
Here are some authentic, lip-smacking dishes that contribute to the deliciousness of traditional Punjabi food.
1. Chhole Bhature
To fit the similarly huge Bhatures, which are soft and fluffy Indian bread, this meal is typically served on a large platter. Bhatures are served with Chhole, a spicy meal made with chickpeas. These two go together like peanuts and are a perfect representation of everything that is wonderful about Indian food because this meal is not just a Punjabi specialty but is also a national fast-food chain. Chhole Bhature is served at upmarket restaurants around the world as well as at roadside fast-food stands.
2. Dal Makhni
It is a delicious, buttery Punjabi lentil dish cooked with a rich blend of red kidney beans and black lentils. It is one of the most well-liked classic Punjabi dishes, and every Indian restaurant around the globe has a spot set aside for it. A labor of love, daal makhani consists of slow-cooked kidney beans and black lentils combined with onion, tomato, and a plethora of fragrant spices in butter.
In keeping with its name, which uses the adjective "makhani," which means "buttery," in place of the word "dal," this mouth-watering meal is served in a thick sauce that is enhanced with generous servings of cream. This is a rich, buttery dish suited for a royal court.
3. Butter Chicken
This aromatic dish is unquestionably the high point of the well-known Punjabi food. It is not only popular in India but also quite well-known in the West as the Indian dinner that you should never regret eating. In essence, the marinated, juicy chicken chunks simmered in a deliciously acidic, sweet, and spicy sauce. Large dollops of butter and fresh cream are added, giving the gravy a rich, creamy texture, which is why it is called butter chicken.
4. Paratha
You may have eaten paratha at least once. This is a well-known, real Punjabi dish. Punjabi households commonly eat this bread as plain or filled veggie paratha. While traveling, people usually choose a paratha from roadside eateries or Dhabas. Many people in Punjab love to cook it in desi ghee. It's a simple yet delicious combo that can be eaten with pickles and cold curd.
You can easily make stuffed paratha at home by adding different ingredients, including potatoes, onions, cottage cheese, keema, and even unusual ones like a bottled gourd.
5. Chicken Tikka
The famous and traditional Indian meal of chicken tikka is a colorful and lip-smacking chicken dish. A paste of ginger and garlic is mixed with a few dry spices and marinated chicken. The ground meat is then served fresh off the grill.
The dish has become so well-known that you can find a restaurant serving it in any European city.
6. Malai Lassi
Every Punjabi restaurant and home serves Lassi, a popular beverage among north Indians. Most often, it is paired with some of the greatest Punjabi food.
A common topping for traditional Punjabi lassi is malai (cream), which is sweet and creamy. It can be made in different flavors and preferences, including strawberry, mango, and rose. It is the ideal cool beverage for a hot summer day, especially when you're out sightseeing or need to balance off spicy ingredients.
It is well-known and contributes to the deliciousness of Punjabi food, giving it the recognition of Punjabi food flavors. Malai Lassi is consumed all around the globe, not only by Punjabis but also by non-Punjabis.
Health Benefits of Punjabi food
Punjabi food is not only known for its mouth-watering flavor but also for its many health advantages. They use fresh ingredients in the cuisine, which contains a wide range of medicinally beneficial spices and herbs. For example, the anti-inflammatory qualities of turmeric, a spice that is frequently used in Punjabi cooking, can help lessen inflammation in the body. Another well-liked spice is cumin, which helps with digestion, relieves bloating, and lowers the risk of indigestion.
Punjabi food includes high amounts of nutrients such as protein, vitamins, and fiber. Adding it to your diet can help you meet your daily protein target. Additionally, they serve a lot of food that includes high-fiber components, such as beans, lentils, and vegetables, that help with digestion and lower the chance of developing chronic illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Additionally, several Punjabi foods are suitable for vegans and gluten-free diets, making them ideal for those with dietary constraints. For example, Makki Ki Roti and Sarson Ka Saag are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals and are gluten-free and vegan. Both mustard greens and corn flour, which are high in nutrients and have many health advantages, are used in these recipes.
Punjabi food is a great supplement to any diet since it offers several health advantages. The food is nutrient-dense, uses a range of medicinal herbs and spices, and contains recipes that are appropriate for those following certain dietary guidelines.
-Written By Shrutika Bajaj (Email- shrutika.bajaj12@gmail.com)