Timeless Punjabi Recipes That Bring the Kitchen to Life

Punjabi recipes are more than just food—they're stories passed down through generations, filled with flavour, warmth, and community. Known for their bold spices, slow-cooked methods, and rich ingredients, these recipes have become a beloved part of Indian cuisine across the world. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, Punjabi dishes offer a deeply satisfying culinary experience.

The Core Elements of Punjabi Recipes

Punjabi recipes often rely on a few key ingredients: whole spices, ghee, garlic, ginger, and onions. Meals are generally built around flatbreads like roti and paratha or hearty rice dishes. Cooking methods such as slow simmering and tandoori grilling ensure every dish is packed with flavor. Signature spice blends like garam masala and dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) bring depth to simple ingredients.

Queens Restaurant: Where Authentic Recipes Come to Life

For those who prefer to taste before they try, Queens Restaurant offers a perfect introduction to Punjabi recipes. Their menu highlights classic home-style dishes like butter chicken, dal makhani, and saag paneer—all prepared with traditional techniques and authentic flavours. Every dish reflects the same balance of spice, creaminess, and comfort found in Punjabi kitchens.

Essential Punjabi Recipes to Master

• Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani): Marinated chicken cooked in a creamy tomato gravy with a hint of sweetness and smoky flavour.

• Dal Makhani: A rich lentil curry made with black lentils, kidney beans, butter, and cream—slow-cooked to perfection.

• Aloo Paratha: Stuffed flatbread with a spicy mashed potato filling, pan-fried with ghee, and served with curd or pickle.

• Sarson da Saag & Makki di Roti: Mustard greens cooked with spices and served with cornmeal flatbread, often topped with white butter.

• Tandoori Chicken: Yoghurt and spice-marinated chicken roasted in a traditional clay oven for a smoky, charred finish.

Cooking the Punjabi Way: Tips and Traditions

Punjabi cooking often involves preparing large portions, emphasising hospitality and shared meals. Traditional cooking includes using a tandoor (clay oven), cast iron pans for frying parathas, and pressure cookers for dals. Meals are rounded off with cool drinks like lassi and sweet treats like kheer or jalebi. The focus is always on wholesome ingredients, balanced flavours, and generous servings.