Amritsar is a paradise for food lovers. The city just breathes finger licking food. From authentic Punjabi delicacies such as Amritsari Kulcha to finger licking street food in Amritsar like dahi bhalle, chaat, etc there is never a dull moment in Amritsar when it comes to food. You will find your mouth watering as I delve further to talk about the top 5 vegetarian foods in Amritsar.

Exploring Amritsar is like diving into a bowl of ghee-laden goodness! This city is not just about the Golden Temple; it’s a foodie’s haven, especially for vegetarians. I need to mention here that ‘Langar’ the community kitchen run in Amritsar has people coming in from all over the globe just to get that feeling of coming home and gratefulness.

 Amritsar’s culinary scene is bursting with flavors that will just blow your taste buds.  If you’re planning a trip or just want to know what veggie delights this Punjabi city has to offer.

 Mentioned below are five iconic vegetarian dishes you absolutely need to try. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later!

Amritsari Kulcha: The King of All Breads

Let’s start with a classic – Amritsari Kulcha. This is not your average naan or paratha; it is without an iota of doubt the king of all breads in Punjab. Made with dough that’s stuffed generously with a spiced mixture of mashed potatoes, onions, and a variety of masalas, it is then put in a tandoor i.e. the traditional clay oven. When it is crispy and golden brown, it is taken out and served with dollops of butter. Served with a side of chole (chickpea curry) and tangy tamarind chutney, Amritsari kulcha is not for the faint hearted or tummied.

Eating an Amritsari Kulcha is almost like taking a bite out of Punjab itself. Its crisp from the outside, soft and spiced inside, and when you add butter to it, you will have a heavenly experience. You just cannot stop at one kulcha as this dil maange more.

Lassi: Not Your Average Drink

Amritsar food list is never complete without the Lassi. It is like the holy grail of beverages in Amritsar. Lassi is made with curd. It is a big frothy glass of elixir which will transfer you in a different zone itself.

It is served in huge glasses. A lot of people like it topped with a layer of thick malai (cream. Some even sprinkle saffron or add a pinch of cardamom for that extra burst of flavors. Lassi is cool, refreshing, and fulfilling. Lassi will drown all your problems magically. So, go ahead have a glass and leave behind all your worries.

Sarson da Saag and Makki di Roti: A Punjabi Staple

This is the national dish of Amritsar. It is a winter delicacy which will leave you spellbound with its burst of flavors. The sarson da saag is a rich, flavorful green curry made from mustard leaves, spinach, and other leafy greens, slow-cooked to perfection with spices. It’s then topped with a generous spoonful of homemade white butter, which melts into the dish, making it creamy and luxurious.

To enjoy this green goodness, you need makki di roti. This is a flatbread that is made from cornmeal. It has this beautiful golden hue. Together, they create a match made in food heaven. A pro tip: You can add in some gur (jaggery) on the side to balance the spicy and earthy flavors. It’s one of those meals that is akin to warm hug on a plate.

Chole Bhature: Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner? Why Not!

Chole Bhature is more than just food; it’s a way of life in Amritsar. Whether you want to have breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Chole Bhature fits the bill perfectly. Bhature is fluffy, deep-fried bread. It is served with a spicy chickpea curry i.e. chole. This curry is bursting with flavors. 

Amritsar’s version of Chole Bhature is special because of the way the chole are cooked with a blend of aromatic spices, giving them a dark, rich color. Some local spots even add a piece of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) to the bhature for that extra touch of indulgence. But a word of caution: After devouring a plate, you might feel the sudden need to take a long naps you would just want to relax. You can call it the “Amritsar siesta.”

Pinni: A Sweet Ending

After all these savory delights, you need something to satisfy that sweet tooth. Pinni is a traditional Punjabi sweet. It is like a little ball of happiness. It is made from desi ghee, wheat flour, jaggery, and dry fruits. It is an amazing dessert and is extremely popular among people of all age groups

Pinni is not just a sweet treat but also considered a healthy snack, especially during the winter months, when it provides warmth and energy. It’s a little dense, a little sticky, and completely delicious. Some enjoy it with a glass of warm milk, but you can eat it anytime you want. It fits in your pocket, so you can sneak a bite whenever the mood strikes – like when you’re walking around the city or waiting for your next kulcha!

Final Thoughts: Come Hungry, Enjoy Vegetarian Food

Amritsar is a city that feeds not just your stomach but your soul. It is a place where food is not just a necessity but a celebration of life, culture, and history. So, go ahead book your Amritsar food tour with Walk and Explore and make a point to try all these five dishes. They provide a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of the city.  

So, come to Amritsar with a big appetite and a willingness to indulge. Forget the calorie counting and embrace the butter, the ghee, and the generous servings. Because in Amritsar, food is love, and love is always best served in large, delicious portions. Happy eating!

Book unforgettable food experiences today with Walk and Explore!