Erstwhile Punjab was a big province in the Indian subcontinent. With several major cities like Lahore and Amritsar seated like jewels in the state, it was one power to reckon with. Acting not just as a food bowl, Punjab was the source of some the best dance and art forms, not to mention it delicious menu. Partition might have made a big impact in the lives of the people, but it didn’t take away its culinary art. The food of Punjab and Amritsar in particular still speaks volumes about its rich culinary skills. Let’s take a look at the enticing food scenario of Amritsar.
Amritsar, home to the famous Golden Temple, is not just proud of its deep-rooted culture but also of its array of gastronomical delights. The wheat bowl of India is also home to kebabs, kulchas, tandoori chicken, fish fries, paneer tikkas and the roadside dhaba culture; another major reason for its huge tourist footfall. All this makes travelling to Amritsar a must thing to do.
Amritsar, the cultural capital of Punjab, can easily be reached from major cities of the country. The city is a perfect mix of history and modernity. Accommodation options can easily be found all over the city. There are several plush hotels if you keep comfort on top; budget options includes motels, dharamshalas and one can even find Oyo rooms in Amritsar. People can also look for Gurudwaras, many of which are equipped with good accommodation facilities.
The true gastronomical journey in Amritsar can only begin with the most authentic dhabas and eatries. Begin your day by visiting Maqbool Road Kulchewala for some chhole-kulche. A pure Amritsari kulcha is the one which makes a crackling sound when broken in half. The secret to it lies in cooking on slow heat. After a great kickstart, take a tour around the Jalebiwala Chowk for some really sweet and hot jalebis. Bet you, that sweet dash will keep you hooked for ages. A trip to Amritsar cannot be complete without having a big glass of lassi, the refreshing sugary drink made of yogurt and cream. A glassful and say goodbye to your tummy woes.
If you’re in for simple dal-roti, head towards Kesar da Dhaba. Located in the old part of the city, this dhaba lives up to its reputation for producing the best dal and butter laden rotis you’ll ever taste in your entire life. As evening hurls, take your time out for snacking with some spicy aloo tikki at Brijwasi Chaat. The tingling sensations and the mixture of tastes will keep your tongue hooked right until dinner. When in Amritsar, do as the Amritsari do. Dinners mostly comprise of non-veg delicacies like roasted chicken, butter chicken and fish fries along with rice and few dals. The fish fingers at Makhan’s is a hit with its crispy deliveries. For desserts, nothing beats the creamy, chilled faluda kulfis.
Amritsar’s culinary delights are even famous in the neighbouring region and you can always find visitors from nearby cities like Chandigarh, Jalandhar, Pathankot, Ludhiana and even Delhi thronging the city. Just like people take cabs from Pune to Mumbai to dig local delicacies, you could see tourists and locals planning a weekend trip to Amritsar just for its delighting menu.
So, whenever you’re in Amritsar the next time, don’t just look for the historical monuments and heritage; go dive into the food culture of the city and you’ll find a pleasant surprise!