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Jalandhar is the third-most populous city of Punjab, housing a diverse and growing population. The city is also famed for being the birthplace of several Indian sportsmen, such as Harbhajan Singh and Ajit Pal Singh, which has boosted its reputation as a sports-centric town. Beyond these interesting factoids, Jalandhar boasts an exhilarating food scene; its delicacies range from enticing street foods like chole bhature to melt-in-the-mouth sweet dishes like jalebi and gulab jamun. Visit the local establishment Lyallpur Sweets to indulge in authentic Jalandhar gulab jamuns.
Overall, the cuisine of Jalandhar is marked by a use of hearty ingredients, such as wheat, rice, and dairy products. These ingredients reflect the agricultural bounty of the land of not only Jalandhar but also the state of Punjab as a whole. Punjab is famously regarded as the “Granary of India” for its rural practices and abundance of natural local produce. The cuisine of Jalandhar is also abounding in vegetarian dishes, given that the area is settled largely by Sikh communities, some of whom centre vegetarianism.
Take a look at some of the best culinary offerings of Jalandhar.
Chole Bhature
Image Credits: By Ravi Dwivedi - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0/Wikimedia Commons
Chole bhature is a popular street food of Jalandhar that is ubiquitous throughout Punjab and beloved across the country. This iconic dish comprises two main elements—deep-fried flatbreads called “bhature” and a spicy chickpeas-based gravy known as “chole.” When combined, these foods create an explosion of flavours, enriching the palate and serving as a wholesome meal simultaneously. The crispiness of the bhature and the smokiness of the chole lends this dish a complex and superior taste profile.
Recommendations: Nagpal’s Chole Bhature
Type: Vegetarian
Cost For Two: ₹200, approx.
Gol Gappe
Image Credits: Freepik
Gol gappas are Punjab’s version of the esteemed pani puri street food of Mumbai. To prepare this dish, holes are drilled into crunchy bite-sized puris, which are then pumped with a spiced chickpeas and potato mixture. A host of chutneys, including a pungent tamarind one is also poured into the puris to give them moistness and enhance their texture. Jalandhar special gol gappas are typically served with a glass of zesty jaljeera water, setting them apart from other regional variations of the dish.
Recommendations: Manni Gol Gape Wale
Type: Vegetarian
Cost For Two: ₹100, approx.
Makki Di Roti And Sarson Da Saag
The quintessential dish of Punjab, any visit to Jalandhar would be incomplete without sampling this invigorating dish. “Sarson da saag” refers to a luscious and aromatic gravy crafted from mustard greens and spinach; this saag is usually eaten with a cornbread known as “makki di roti.” Usually topped with dollops of ghee and butter, this delicacy makes for an indulgent as well as a nourishing meal. This dish is consumed extensively in the chilly winter months as its ingredients help generate warmth.
Recommendations: Quick Delight Tasty Bites
Type: Vegetarian
Cost For Two: ₹200, approx.
Rajma Chawal
Image Credits: By Hartej.hundal - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0/Wikimedia Commons
Rajma chawal is a deeply comforting dish that’s a staple across households in Punjab. The dish is composed of a savoury gravy prepared from red kidney beans and a variety of spices, including garlic, coriander, ginger, and black pepper. These beans are traditionally consumed with a helping of steamed rice; however, the gravy can also be relished with flatbreads like rotis and parathas. This dish is quite popular as not only is it delicious but also nutritious.
Recommendations: Ratan Rajma Naan Wala
Type: Vegetarian
Cost For Two: ₹200, approx.
Aloo Paratha
Image Credits: Freepik
Aloo paratha is a classic breakfast item that’s savoured across Punjab. Typically made from wheat, the parathas are stuffed with a concoction of boiled potatoes, spices, and herbs, such as red chilli powder, cumin powder, and turmeric powder. The parathas are topped with generous helpings of ghee and butter which give it a filling and an inviting quality. Being packed with flavour, aloo parathas can be enjoyed by themselves; however, they are usually served with multiple condiments, including pickles and yoghurt.
Recommendations: Prantha Book
Type: Vegetarian
Cost For Two: ₹150, approx.
Lassi
Image Credits: By Hartej.hundal - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0/Wikimedia Commons
Lassi is a revitalising yoghurt-based beverage that has been enchanting the people of Punjab since ancient times. This drink is relished as a satiating summertime treat as it comprises cooling properties. Due to its soothing effect on the digestive system, lassi is usually relished after meals. Remarkably, lassi can be enjoyed in several flavours in Jalandhar, including sweet lassi, mango lassi, badam lassi, and more. The cool beverage is frequently topped off with ice cubes and occasionally, chopped nuts and dry fruits.
Recommendations: Haveli
Type: Vegetarian
Cost For Two: ₹200, approx.
Gulab Jamun
Image Credits: Freepik
Gulab jamun is a sumptuous sweet dish made up of deep-fried milk solid dumplings that have been dunked in a sugar syrup. Widely considered as one of the most popular desserts of India, gulab jamun is cherished for the irresistible melt-in-the-mouth sensation it produces when bitten into, crafting an unforgettable gastronomic experience. This sweet delight is a staple during Punjabi festivals and celebrations, including weddings, parties, and more; it should be eaten piping hot to fully enjoy its textural beauty.
Recommendations: Chhabra Sweets & Delights
Type: Vegetarian
Cost For Two: ₹250, approx
