Panjabi food is popular in the USA due to the large and prominent Indian community in the country. There is a vast section of vegetarian and non-vegetarian Dishes to choose from in various culinary styles, particularly the tandoori style. The dishes are rich in flavor, from mild to very spicy, and Punjabi Basmati rice, Chapatis, and Naan are ideal staples for the many delicious dishes. Panjabi food recipes are popular in the USA day by day because many Indians live in the USA and enjoy Punjabi food in USA streets. We all know there is a connection between fun and food and If you want to go to the USA for any purpose you must visit the Punjabi restaurants in the USA like Commander's Palace, The French Laundry, Katz's Deli, The Bluebird Cafe, Snow's BBQ, Alinea, and many more.
Here are some of the most popular Punjabi dishes in the USA:
1. Tandoori Chicken
Tandoori chicken is a famous chicken recipe in the Punjab state of India. Nowadays Indian culture and food are famous in USA cities and the whole US market areas. Most restaurants have this type of recipe but the name is different like smoky chicken, roasted chicken, chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, and many more. Traditionally, this type of Punjabi food is cooked at high temperatures in the tandoor and tandoor gives it a smoky flavor. The best part of the tandoori chicken is eaten with cilantro chutney and mint chutney.
2. Butter Chicken
Butter chicken, also known as chicken makhani, is a classical Punjabi dish where smoky chicken is simmered in a spicy flavor with buttery and creamy tomato gravy. In recent times butter chicken is a famous food in the USA and lots of Indian people come into restaurants and order butter chicken in Punjabi style. Butter chicken's best part is eaten with butter naan and tandoori naan.
3. Paneer Tikka
Paneer tikka is a popular and luscious tandoori Punjabi snack where paneer is marinated with spicy chutney paste, arranged on skewers, and grilled in the tandoor or oven. It is also known as vegetarian chicken and holds a unique position in Punjabi cuisine. Different types of paneer tikka are used in USA Punjabi restaurants like tandoori paneer tikka, achari paneer tikka, malai paneer tikka and many more.
4. Sarson ka saag
Sarson ka saag is a popular Punjabi dish that is made with mustard greens, spinach, and other greens. It is a healthy and nutritious dish that is very popular in North India, especially during the winter season. prepare ka saag, the mustard greens and spinach are first washed and chopped finely. These greens are then boiled in water along with some salt, ginger, garlic, and green chilies until they are soft and tender. Once the greens are cooked, they are mashed together and then sautéed with some chopped onions and tomatoes in ghee.
5. Rajma Chawal
Punjabi Rajma chawal is one of the famous and delicious dishes in India. This dish is purely vegetarian but tastes like chicken curry. Rajma chawal consists of beans cooked in a spicy onion-tomato gravy and served with rice. It is a comfort food for many Indians and is often made for lunch or dinner. Rajma chawal is not only tasty but also nutritious. Red kidney beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and minerals like iron and potassium, while rice is a good source of carbohydrates. Together, they make for a balanced meal that provides energy and satiates hunger.
6. Amritsari Fish
Amritsari fish is a famous dish from the city of Amritsar in Punjab, India. It is a deep-fried fish dish that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The fish is marinated in a mixture of spices and gram flour before being fried to perfection. The dish is usually served with some mint and coriander chutney, sliced onions, and lemon wedges. It is a popular appetizer or snack and is often enjoyed with a cold beverage on the side.
7. Dal Makhani
Dal Makhani is a popular dish in Indian cuisine, particularly in the northern part of the country. It is a creamy, rich lentil dish made with black lentils, kidney beans, butter, cream, and a blend of spices typically served with rice or naan bread. Dal Makhani is a popular vegetarian dish and is often served on special occasions such as weddings, festivals, and other celebrations. It is also a staple dish in many USA restaurants and is enjoyed by people all around the world.
8. Chicken Tikka
Chicken Tikka is a popular Indian dish that is made with marinated pieces of chicken that are grilled or baked. To make Chicken Tikka, boneless chicken pieces are first marinated in a mixture of yogurt and a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. The chicken is then skewered and cooked in a tandoor oven, which gives it a smoky flavor and a slightly charred texture. Alternatively, the chicken can be cooked in an oven or on a grill.
9. Panjiri
Panjiri is a traditional Indian sweet dish that is made with a blend of roasted flour, ghee, sugar, and a variety of nuts and spices. It is a popular dish in North India and is often served during festivals and Punjabi special occasions. Panjiri is a nutritious dish that is believed to have many health benefits. It is often given to new mothers to help them recover from childbirth and is also consumed during the winter months to keep the body warm and energized.
10. Chana Masala
Chana Masala is a popular Indian dish made with chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for vegetarians and vegans and can be served as a main course or as a side dish. Chana Masala is commonly served with rice or naan bread and can be garnished with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lemon juice. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion
Overall, Punjabi food in the USA is a diverse and flavorful cuisine. That is deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage of the Punjab region in India. With its use of bold spices, fresh herbs, and hearty ingredients like lentils, chickpeas, and paneer, Punjabi food in the USA offers a delicious taste of the region’s vibrant culinary traditions.
