Punjab on a Plate: Signature Punjabi Dishes You Must Try | Patiala Shahi Restaurant
Picture this: the warmth of a tandoor, the sound of sizzling spices, and the rich aroma of ghee drifting through the air. That’s not just food; that’s Punjab on a plate. Every dish tells a story of tradition, family, and celebration. If you’ve ever wondered what makes Punjabi cuisine so deeply loved across the world, this guide will take you straight to the heart of it.
By the end, you’ll know exactly which signature Punjabi dishes deserve a place on your “must-try” list, whether you’re dining out, ordering in, or planning your next food adventure.
The Soul of Punjabi Cuisine
Punjabi food is more than just hearty; it’s an experience. Born in the farmlands of North India, the cuisine celebrates generosity, flavour, and freshness. Every bite feels like a warm welcome full of butter, spice, and soul.
The dishes reflect balance: bold yet comforting, indulgent yet honest. Whether it’s the smoky flavour of a tandoor or the creamy swirl of a curry, Punjabi food speaks the universal language of love.
1. Butter Chicken – The Crown Jewel of Punjab
You can’t talk about Punjabi food without mentioning Butter Chicken, or as it’s lovingly called, Murgh Makhani. Tender chicken pieces cooked in a creamy tomato gravy, finished with butter and cream, it’s the perfect mix of tangy, rich, and mild spice.
Fun fact: this dish was born in the kitchens of Delhi by Punjabi chefs who refused to waste leftovers. The result? A masterpiece loved across the globe.
Quick tip: Pair it with soft naan or fragrant basmati rice to complete the royal experience.
2. Sarson da Saag & Makki di Roti – Winter Royalty
If Butter Chicken is the king, Sarson da Saag is the queen of Punjabi comfort food. Made from mustard greens, spinach, and spices, it’s served with Makki di Roti, a golden, cornmeal flatbread.
This earthy, hearty combination is winter on a plate, rich in flavour, tradition, and nostalgia. A dollop of homemade butter on top turns it into pure bliss.
Did you know? This dish is often enjoyed during Lohri, Punjab’s harvest festival.
3. Amritsari Fish Fry – Street Food with a Crunch
Crispy, golden, and spiced to perfection, Amritsari Fish Fry is Punjab’s coastal surprise. Even though Punjab isn’t by the sea, this dish shows the region’s creativity with river fish like sole or singhara.
Coated in a spicy gram flour batter and fried until crisp, it’s the perfect snack for a rainy evening or a quick starter before your main meal.
Pro tip: Squeeze a little lemon on top and enjoy it hot with mint chutney.
4. Dal Makhani – A Hug in a Bowl
Every Punjabi household has its version of Dal Makhani, slow-cooked black lentils with butter, cream, and love. It’s rich, smoky, and satisfying in every spoonful.
The secret? Long cooking time. The lentils simmer for hours, allowing the flavours to deepen and blend. It’s a dish that proves patience really does taste good.
Best served with: Jeera rice, roti, or naan and a smile.
5. Tandoori Chicken – Flame, Smoke, and Flavour
Before the world knew “barbecue,” Punjab had the tandoor. Tandoori Chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked in a clay oven for that signature char and smokiness.
It’s fiery yet flavorful, a dish that captures Punjab’s bold spirit. Served with lemon wedges and onion rings, it’s an unforgettable first taste for anyone new to Indian food.
Chef’s note: The word “tandoor” comes from Persian roots, but its soul lives in Punjab’s villages.
6. Lassi – Sweet, Cool, and Unmistakably Punjabi
No Punjabi meal is complete without Lassi. This creamy yogurt drink can be sweet or salty, topped with a layer of frothy richness. On hot summer days, it’s more refreshing than any soda.
Some versions even come with a touch of rose water or cardamom, a royal treat that refreshes body and soul alike.
Fun fact: The word Lassi comes from “lass,” meaning buttermilk. It’s been a part of Punjabi homes for centuries.
Why Punjabi Cuisine Wins Every Heart
Punjabi food is more than just a mix of spices; it’s an emotion. It celebrates togetherness, joy, and the love of good food shared with others. Every dish carries the essence of Punjab: warmth, pride, and community.
For locals in Glen Waverley and across Melbourne, it’s not just about eating; it’s about feeling connected to culture, to family, and to home.
Conclusion
If reading this made your mouth water, it’s time to turn those cravings into reality. At Patiala Shahi Indian Restaurant, every meal celebrates the royal flavours of Punjab from creamy curries to smoky tandoor dishes, served with heartwarming hospitality.
So come, take a seat, and let Punjab unfold on your plate. Because here, every bite tells a story worth savouring.
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