Punjabi Food Meets Indian Wine: A Culinary Celebration
Punjabi Food, with its robust and hearty dishes, stands as a cornerstone of Indian culinary heritage. Traditionally, Punjabi cuisine is enjoyed with lassi or buttermilk, but there's a rising trend of pairing these flavorful dishes with Indian wines. This fusion not only elevates the dining experience but also offers a refined twist to classic tastes. Here’s a guide to discovering the magic of Punjabi Food dishes paired with wine.
1. The Bold Charm of Butter Chicken with Viognier
Why it works:
The creamy richness and tangy tomato base of butter chicken pair perfectly with Viognier, a floral white wine with subtle hints of spice and fruit.
Pairing Tips:
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Choose a Viognier with low oak influence for a clean contrast.
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Serve butter chicken with butter naan or jeera rice for a well-rounded meal.
2. Spiced Paneer Bhurji with Rosé
Why it works:
Paneer bhurji, with its blend of onions, tomatoes, green chillies, and Indian spices, finds harmony with a dry Rosé, offering balance without overpowering the spice.
Pairing Tips:
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Use fresh paneer for a soft texture.
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Pair with toasted pav or lachha paratha.
3. Sarson Da Saag & Makki Di Roti with Zinfandel
Why it works:
The earthy flavours of sarson da saag contrast beautifully with the bold fruit notes of a Zinfandel, making for a rustic yet elegant combination.
Pairing Tips:
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Add a dollop of homemade white butter on top of the saag.
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Enjoy with jaggery and raw onions on the side for authenticity.
4. Tandoori Chicken with Shiraz
Why it works:
Tandoori chicken’s smoky flavours and spice blend pair exquisitely with a spicy Shiraz, enhancing both the grilled notes and heat.
Pairing Tips:
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Marinate chicken overnight for maximum flavour.
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Garnish with lemon wedges and mint chutney.
5. Chole Bhature with Sparkling Brut
Why it works:
Chole bhature’s rich, spicy chickpeas and deep-fried bread need a palate cleanser—Sparkling Brut provides a crisp, bubbly refreshment to cut through the grease and spice.
Pairing Tips:
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Use black tea and amla in the chole for a dark colour and tang.
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Serve with pickled onions and green chillies.
6. Amritsari Kulcha with Riesling
Why it works:
The spiced, stuffed kulchas with potato or paneer go well with the semi-sweet profile of a Riesling, which balances out the masala.
Pairing Tips:
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Brush kulchas with ghee for extra richness.
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Serve with tamarind chutney and curd.