The 6 Best Punjabi Cookbooks to Cook Up a Feast
Punjabi cuisine is known for its bold spices, hearty dishes, and diverse range of flavors that make it a favorite among foodies worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, cooking up a delicious Punjabi meal is easier than you think – as long as you have the right resources.
But with so many Traditional Punjabi Recipe Books on the market, how do you choose the best ones to add to your collection? We’ve done the research for you and narrowed down the selection to the 6 best Punjabi cuisine cookbooks that are guaranteed to take your cooking skills to new heights. From traditional recipes passed down through generations to modern takes on Punjabi classics, these cookbooks offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for anyone looking to explore this flavorful cuisine.
So, grab your apron and get ready to dive into the world of Punjabi cooking with these 6 essential cookbooks.
1. Factors to consider when choosing best Punjabi recipe books
When selecting the best Traditional Punjabi Recipe Books, there are several factors to consider. The cookbook should provide detailed instructions for traditional Punjabi recipes, along with information on the cultural significance of each dish. It should also include information on the key spices and ingredients used in Punjabi cuisine, as well as tips on where to source them. Additionally, the cookbook should be accessible to both novice and experienced cooks, with clear and concise language and easy-to-follow instructions. Lastly, the cookbook’s visuals should be appealing and provide context for the dishes being prepared.
2. Best Punjabi Cookbooks 2023
2.1 The Indian Slow Cooker

Author: Anupy Singla
About the author:
Urvashi Pitre is a renowned Indian food blogger. Her passion for cooking and culinary expertise has garnered a huge following online. She is known for her simple yet flavorful recipes that showcase the diverse flavors of Indian cuisine. In her cookbook , Pitre has adapted traditional Indian recipes for the slow cooker, making it easy for home cooks to create delicious meals with minimal effort.
What makes the book special:
“The Indian Slow Cooker” is a unique Punjabi cuisine cookbooks that provides simple and flavorful recipes for traditional Indian dishes that can be made in a slow cooker. What sets this cookbook apart is that it takes the complex and time-consuming nature of Indian cooking and simplifies it for the modern-day cook. Singla’s recipes are easy to follow, and her cooking techniques are straightforward and practical.
Must-try recipes:
Some of the must-try recipes in this one of the Best Punjabi recipe books include Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb Biryani, and Chana Masala. Each recipe is accompanied by beautiful photographs and detailed instructions. The book also includes tips on how to select the right ingredients and spices, as well as advice on how to properly use a slow cooker to achieve the perfect dish. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, “The Indian Slow Cooker” is a must-have cookbook for anyone looking to explore the delicious flavors of Indian cuisine in an easy and accessible way.
2.2 Amritsar – Flavours of the Golden City

Author: Vikas Khanna
About the author:
Vikas Khanna is a Michelin-starred Indian chef, restaurateur, cookbook writer, filmmaker, humanitarian, and judge on MasterChef India. He was born in Amritsar, India, and grew up in a family of restaurateurs. He is one of the most celebrated Indian chefs globally and has authored several books on Indian cuisine.
What makes the book special:
Flavours of the Golden City is a cookbook that showcases the rich culinary heritage of the city of Amritsar. The book not only features traditional recipes but also tells the stories behind the dishes and their cultural significance. The book is beautifully designed with stunning photographs that capture the essence of Amritsar’s food and culture.
Must-try recipes:
Some of the must-try recipes include Amritsari Kulcha, Chhole Bhature, Tandoori Chicken, Butter Chicken, and Fish Amritsari. There are also recipes for lesser-known dishes such as Kali Gajar Ka Halwa, Gatta Curry, and Pinni.
2.3 Punjabi Khana

Author: Tarla Dalal
About the author:
Pushpesh Pant, is an eminent historian, and food critic with a passion for Punjabi cuisine. He has authored several cookbooks and has been awarded the Padma Shri for his contribution to Indian cuisine.
What makes the book special:
The Punjabi Khana known as an authentic Punjabi cookbook that has its emphasis on the cultural and historical context of Punjabi cuisine. Along with a wide range of recipes, Pant shares stories about the origins of each dish and its significance in Punjabi culture. The book also includes information on traditional cooking techniques and ingredients.
Must-try recipes:
Some of the must-try recipes from the book include sarson ka saag (a dish made with mustard greens and spices), chole bhature (spicy chickpeas served with fried bread), and butter chicken (a creamy tomato-based dish with marinated chicken). Each recipe is accompanied by detailed instructions and helpful tips from Pant.
2.4 Punjab — A Culinary Delight

Author: Puneetinder Kaur Sidhu
About the author:
Puneetinder Kaur Sidhu is an award-winning writer, culinary expert, and travel enthusiast based in India. Puneetinder has authored several books on Indian cuisine, including “Latitude: The Global Story of the Indian Ocean” and “Delectable Mountains: And Their Culinary Secrets.” She is known for her expertise in the food and travel industry, and her passion for exploring the cultural and culinary diversity of India.
What makes the book special:
Punjab — A Culinary Delight is one of the Traditional Punjabi recipe books which is a celebration of the rich culinary heritage of Punjab, a north Indian state known for its vibrant culture and mouth-watering dishes. The book is a comprehensive guide to Punjabi cooking, featuring over 100 authentic recipes, from hearty curries to delectable desserts. What sets this book apart is its emphasis on the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. The stunning photography and insightful anecdotes make it a delightful read for anyone interested in Indian cuisine.
Must-try recipes:
Punjab – A Culinary Delight offers a treasure trove of classic Punjabi recipes, such as butter chicken and Amritsari fish.
2.5 Menus & Memories from Punjab

Author: Veronica Sidhu
About the author:
Veronica Sidhu, is an accomplished chef and food blogger based in the United States. Veronica is of Punjabi descent and grew up in a family that cherished traditional Punjabi cuisine. She has trained under several renowned chefs and has honed her skills in both traditional and modern cooking techniques. Veronica is also the founder of the popular food blog “The Spice Chica,” where she shares her love for cooking and her passion for Punjabi food.
What makes the book special:
Menus & Memories from Punjab is an authentic Punjabi cookbook which pays a heartwarming tribute to the author’s roots and a celebration of Punjabi cuisine. The book features over 100 authentic recipes, many of which have been passed down through generations in the author’s family. What sets this book apart is the author’s personal touch, as she shares anecdotes and stories about her family and her memories associated with each recipe. The book is also visually stunning, with vibrant photographs that bring the dishes to life.
From tantalising appetizers to various entrees, curries, and desserts, this Punjabi recipe book has something for everyone. With over 32 different menus that feature a wide array of vegetarian, non-vegetarian and vegan recipes, Menus & Memories from Punjab will equip you with all the skills and tools that you need to make authentic and flavourful Punjabi meals.
Must-try recipes:
Menus & Memories from Punjab is a treasure trove of classic Punjabi recipes, and here are some must-try dishes- Chole Bhature: A popular street food in North India, made with spicy chickpea curry and deep-fried bread, Butter Chicken: A creamy and flavorful chicken curry, perfect for special occasions and Baingan Bharta: Roasted eggplant mash, cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices.
2.6 Classic Cooking Of Punjab

Authors: Jiggs Kalra and Pushpesh Pant
About the authors:
Classic Cooking of Punjab is co-authored by Jiggs Kalra and Pushpesh Pant. Jiggs Kalra was a renowned food critic, author, and restaurateur based in India. He was known as the “Czar of Indian Cuisine” and was instrumental in popularizing Indian cuisine globally. Pushpesh Pant is a noted Indian food historian, author, and academician. He has authored several books on Indian cuisine and is a well-respected authority on the subject.
What makes the book special:
Classic Cooking of Punjab is a seminal work on Punjabi cuisine and is considered a classic in the culinary world. The book delves deep into the history, culture, and traditions of Punjab and showcases the rich culinary heritage of the region. It features over 100 authentic recipes, each with detailed instructions and beautiful photographs. What sets this book apart is the comprehensive and meticulous research that has gone into it, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in Indian cuisine.
Must-try recipes:
Some of the best recipes from the book include Shahi Paneer, Amritsari Kulcha, Missi Roti, and Methi Murg
3. FAQs
- Are there any Punjabi cookbooks that are suitable for beginners?
Yes, there are many Authentic Punjabi cookbooks suitable for beginners , one of them is “The Indian Slow Cooker” by Anupy.
- What type of recipes can I find in Punjabi cookbooks?
Traditional Punjabi recipes, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, can be found in Punjabi cookbooks.
- Can I find vegetarian recipes in Punjabi cookbooks?
Yes, vegetarian recipes are included in Punjabi cookbooks
- Are there any Punjabi cookbooks that feature traditional recipes?
Yes, there are Punjabi cookbooks that feature traditional recipes such as “Amritsar – Flavours of the Golden City” by Vikas Khanna.
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