Top 10 Dishes of Patiala You Must Try

Patiala, a city known for its royal heritage and vibrant culture, is equally famous for its rich and diverse culinary offerings. The city’s cuisine is a true reflection of its warm and welcoming spirit, offering a variety of dishes that are both hearty and flavorful. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring the top dishes of Patiala is essential to truly experiencing the essence of this historical city. Here’s a list of the top 10 dishes that you must try when in Patiala.

Patiala Shahi Lassi

One of the most iconic drinks from Patiala, Shahi Lassi is a must-try for anyone visiting the city. This rich and creamy yogurt-based drink is served in large steel tumblers and topped with a generous layer of malai (clotted cream) and chopped nuts like almonds and pistachios. Sweet, slightly tangy, and incredibly refreshing, Patiala Shahi Lassi is perfect for cooling down on a hot day and is often filling enough to be a meal on its own.

Makki di Roti and Sarson da Saag

A quintessential Punjabi dish, Makki di Roti and Sarson da Saag is a winter favorite in Patiala. The roti is made from cornmeal and pairs perfectly with the saag, which is prepared from mustard greens slow-cooked with spices. Topped with a dollop of homemade white butter, this dish is a celebration of rustic flavors and is deeply satisfying, offering a true taste of Punjab’s agrarian roots.

Amritsari Kulcha

Though it originates from Amritsar, the Amritsari Kulcha has become a beloved dish in Patiala as well. This leavened bread is stuffed with a spiced mixture of potatoes, onions, or paneer, and baked to perfection in a tandoor. It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, bursting with flavor in every bite. Typically served with spicy chickpeas (chole) and tamarind chutney, Amritsari Kulcha is a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in the rich flavors of Punjab.

Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is a dish that has gained international fame, but its roots are deeply embedded in Punjab. In Patiala, this dish is particularly popular, with tender pieces of chicken marinated in spices, grilled, and then simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based gravy. The combination of the smoky chicken with the smooth, buttery sauce is simply irresistible, making it a favorite in homes and restaurants alike.

Kadhi Pakora

Kadhi Pakora is the ultimate comfort food, especially on a rainy day. The dish consists of deep-fried gram flour fritters (pakoras) soaked in a tangy yogurt-based gravy (kadhi), which is spiced with turmeric, ginger, garlic, and a tempering of mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and dried red chilies. Served with steamed rice or hot chapatis, Kadhi Pakora is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s loved by all.

Rajma Chawal

A staple in Punjabi households, Rajma Chawal is a simple yet incredibly delicious dish. Red kidney beans (rajma) are slow-cooked in a spiced tomato gravy until they are tender and full of flavor, then served over a bed of steamed basmati rice (chawal). The creamy texture of the rajma combined with the fluffy rice creates a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying, making it a go-to meal for many.

Chole Bhature

Chole Bhature is not just a dish; it’s an experience. The combination of spicy chickpeas (chole) with fluffy, deep-fried bread (bhature) is a match made in culinary heaven. The chole is cooked in a tangy, spicy gravy, while the bhature is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. This dish is often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or lunch and is a favorite street food in Patiala.

Paneer Tikka

For vegetarians, Paneer Tikka is a must-try dish in Patiala. Cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) are marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture, then skewered and grilled until they develop a smoky flavor. The result is a dish that’s tangy, spicy, and full of flavor, with the paneer remaining soft and succulent. Served with mint chutney, Paneer Tikka is a popular appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion.

Pinni

Pinni is a traditional Punjabi sweet that’s especially popular during the winter months. Made from wheat flour, jaggery, ghee, and dry fruits, Pinni is a rich and nutritious treat that’s believed to provide warmth and energy. It has a nutty texture and a deep sweetness that makes it perfect as a dessert or a snack, and it’s often enjoyed with a cup of hot tea.

Aloo Paratha

Aloo Paratha is a breakfast staple in Patiala and is loved by people of all ages. This whole wheat flatbread is stuffed with a spiced potato filling and cooked on a griddle with ghee until it’s golden and crispy. Served hot with a side of yogurt, pickle, and a dollop of butter, Aloo Paratha is the ultimate comfort food that’s both hearty and delicious, making it a favorite in Punjabi cuisine.

Conclusion

Patiala’s culinary landscape is as rich and diverse as its cultural heritage. From the comforting flavors of Rajma Chawal to the indulgent taste of Butter Chicken, each dish offers a unique experience that reflects the city’s royal past and vibrant present. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these top 10 dishes are a must-try to truly savor the essence of Patiala.