Chandigarh, being a city in northern India, is known for its diverse culinary offerings. The food in Chandigarh is heavily influenced by Punjabi and North Indian cuisine, and here are some of the famous foods that you can enjoy in Chandigarh:
Butter Chicken
Also known as Murgh Makhani, it is a popular Punjabi dish made with succulent pieces of grilled or roasted chicken cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce with a generous amount of butter, spices, and herbs. It is often enjoyed with naan or rice.
Chole Bhature
A classic Punjabi dish consisting of spicy chickpea curry, called chole, served with deep-fried bread called bhature. It is a popular breakfast or lunch option in Chandigarh and is often accompanied by pickles, yogurt, and lassi (a traditional yogurt-based drink).
Tandoori Chicken
A famous North Indian dish made by marinating chicken in a mixture of yogurt and spices, and then grilling it to perfection in a traditional clay oven called tandoor. It is known for its smoky flavor and juicy texture.
Amritsari Fish
A popular street food from nearby Amritsar, but widely available in Chandigarh, it consists of deep-fried fish fillets marinated in a spiced gram flour batter, served with mint chutney and lemon wedges.
Sarso da Saag and Makki di Roti
A traditional Punjabi dish made with mustard greens (sarso da saag) and served with cornmeal flatbread (makki di roti). It is a seasonal delicacy usually enjoyed during winters in Chandigarh.
Paneer Tikka
A popular vegetarian dish made with marinated and grilled cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese), along with vegetables like capsicum and onion, served with mint chutney and lemon wedges.
Kulcha
A type of flatbread similar to naan, but typically stuffed with spiced potatoes, onion, and other fillings. It is typically served with chole, yogurt, and pickles.
Rabri
A famous Punjabi dessert made with condensed milk, sugar, and cardamom, cooked slowly until it thickens to a creamy consistency. It is often garnished with nuts and served chilled.
Final Thoughts
Chandigarh, being a culturally diverse city, offers a variety of food options from different regions of India. The food scene in Chandigarh is characterized by a blend of local and international flavors, making it a food lover’s paradise.
In addition to the traditional Indian cuisine, Chandigarh also has a growing food culture that includes cafes, bistros, and fine dining restaurants. These places offer a range of international cuisines, including Italian, Chinese, Mexican, and Continental.