Whether you’re craving chicken tikka masala, sarson ka saag, or chole bhature, these 65 best Punjabi recipes will take you to the heart of India with every bite. From hearty curries to crispy pakoras, rice dishes, and desserts, there’s something for everyone.
If you are looking for authentic Punjabi food, you have come to the right place. Being a Punjabi, I share a variety of popular (and sometimes not as well-known) Punjabi recipes.
Many of the recipes have been passed down generations and I have learnt the nuances of making the most flavorful versions from my mom.
I often get feedback that I have made a lot of the complex Punjabi dishes accessible to many by simplifying the recipes while ensuring the authentic taste. I hope you find that helpful and enjoy all of the amazing Punjabi food!
Table of Contents
Punjabi Food
This is the cuisine from the Punjab area, which is shared by India and Pakistan. This is the food you will often find in popular Indian restaurants around the globe.
Punjabi food is all about hearty meals meant for sharing with loved ones: fluffy rotis (flatbreads) dipped in rich curries, succulent tandoori chicken bursting with flavor, and refreshing raitas to cool things down. You will also see the influence of Mughlai cuisine in Punjabi food.
Here’s what makes Punjabi cuisine stand out:
- The Tandoor Effect: The tandoor, a cylindrical clay oven, plays a key role in Punjabi cooking. It imparts a unique smoky flavor to meats, breads, and vegetables.
- The Magic of Ghee: Ghee, clarified butter, is a staple in Punjabi kitchens. It adds richness and depth to the food.
- The Spice Symphony: Punjabis love their spices! From the warmth of ginger, garlic, and turmeric to the kick of chilies, you will find a plethora of spices and aromatics used in Punjabi food.
Popular Dishes from Punjab
So, whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a hearty meal, you will love these Punjabi recipes. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Vegetarian Curries
Sarson ka Saag
Punjabi Sarson ka Saag, served with Makki ki roti, is a classic North Indian winter favorite. This traditional saag, packed with flavor and nutrition, is a comforting and hearty meal. Learn how to make authentic Sarson ka saag with my mom's perfect recipe.
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Chana Masala
Punjabi Chole Masala or Chana Masala is an Indian favorite chickpea curry. This one-pot recipe for the authentic Chana Masala can be made in the Instant Pot or stovetop Pressure Cooker. A healthy protein-rich vegan and gluten free chickpea recipe.
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Palak Paneer
A North Indian favorite with spinach and cottage cheese, Palak Paneer. Make this instant pot palak paneer as a one-pot dish, super easy and delicious!
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Aloo Gobi
A healthy & delicious potato and cauliflower stir fry made in the instant pot. So easy and quick, takes just 20 minutes. Vegan & Gluten Free.
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Dal Makhani
Authentic Punjabi Dal Makhani (Madras Lentils) made in Pressure Cooker or Instant Pot. This restaurant style Dal Makhani made in the pressure cooker is rich, creamy and flavorful.
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Kadhi Pakora
The perfect, quintessential comfort food from North India is Punjabi kadhi pakora. This is an authentic and traditional recipe in which crispy pakoras (onion-gram flour fritters) are dipped in a tangy and thick yogurt sauce (kadhi).
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Baingan Bharta (Roasted Mashed Eggplant)
Baingan Bharta, a popular smoky and zesty dish from North India is made with roasted mashed eggplant, sauteed in onion, garlic, tomatoes and Indian spices. Vegan & Gluten-free.
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Paneer Tikka Masala
Paneer Tikka Masala is a flavorful and aromatic curry made with marinated and grilled paneer cubes simmered in a rich onion tomato gravy along with warm spices. This restaurant quality Paneer Tikka Masala is so easy to make in the instant pot, that you will not consider take-out again.
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Rajma Masala
Delicious Instant Pot Rajma Masala or Red Kidney Beans Curry with Pot-in-Pot Brown Rice. This is a great way to make a complete meal in your instant pot.
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Aloo Wadiyan
Aloo Wadiyan is a popular North India potato and lentil dumpling curry. Wadiyan is sun-dried spicy lentil dumplings that give you a flavor burst in every bite. This vegan and gluten free North Indian curry is perfect for a delicious warm weeknight dinner!
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Aloo Gajar Matar (Indian Potatoes, Carrots & Peas)
Aloo Gajar Matar is a simple, nutritious, and quick stir fry with potatoes, carrots and green peas. This punjabi style dry curry is perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
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Lauki Kofta
Koftas made with lauki (bottle gourd) are simmered in a spiced onion tomato curry sauce. Lauki Kofta's can be deep-fried or air-fried. Serve this simple North Indian Lauki Kofta curry with roti or paratha for a healthy vegan and gluten-free meal.
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Bhindi do Pyaza (Okra Stir Fry)
Bhindi do Pyaza is a flavorful Indian dish of crunchy okra cooked with lots of onions, garlic, and aromatic spices. Pair it with dal and rice for a simple indian meal. Vegan & Gluten-free.
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Aloo Matar
Aloo Matar is a quick and easy potatoes and peas curry, made in the Instant Pot or stovetop. This vegan and gluten free Aloo Matar Masala is perfect for a delicious warm weeknight dinner!
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Bharwa Karela
A delicious stuffed bitter gourd recipe popular in North India. Bitter melon is stuffed with caramelized sweet onions and aromatic spices to make this fantastic vegan and gluten-free side dish.
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Punjabi Kala Chana / Black Chickpeas Curry
Kala Chana is a mildly spiced black chickpeas curry made in instant pot. This is a simple everyday Punjabi curry, made in a onion-tomato gravy with ginger and garlic.
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Matar Makhana Curry
Matar Makhana is a delicious rich curry filled with the goodness of foxnuts and green peas. Made in a thick sauce of onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic and aromatic spices, this curry is perfect for celebrations or a weekday dinner. Vegetarian & Gluten-free!
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Black Eyed Peas Curry (Indian Lobia Masala)
Black Eyed Peas Curry or Lobia Masala is a popular dish in North India, that is so easy and quick to make in the pressure cooker. It is made in an onion-tomato gravy, along with lots of ginger, garlic and aromatic spices. It is perfect to enjoy with some steaming basmati rice and parathas.
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Aloo Methi
Aloo Methi is a simple Indian stir-fry packed with lots of flavor and nutrition. Sautéed in mild spices, Aloo (Potato) and Methi (Fenugreek leaves) is a wonderful accompaniment to your meal.
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Green Moong Dal (Mung Bean Curry)
Wholesome Green Moong lentils simmered in onion-tomato gravy made in Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker). A protein rich mung bean curry, enjoy as a lentil soup along with a side of rice.
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Aloo Palak Recipe (Potato & Spinach Stir Fry)
Aloo Palak is a delicious and nutritious Indian potato & spinach stir fry. This Punjabi Aloo Palak recipe can be made in just 25 minutes and is perfect for a quick healthy weeknight dinner!
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Instant Pot Chana Dal
Easy & Delicious Chana Dal made in the Pressure Cooker. Split Chickpeas cooked with ginger, garlic, onion, tomato and flavorful spices, to make a comforting soup. Vegan & Gluten free.
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Indian Pumpkin Curry (Kaddu ka bharta)
This Indian pumpkin curry is a delicious and healthy vegetable curry that can be made in less than 30 minutes for a weeknight dinner. Vegan & gluten free!
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Meat Curries
Restaurant Style Kadai Chicken
Kadai Chicken is a restaurant favorite North Indian chicken curry, cooked in the traditional kadai with tender chicken and a rich blend of aromatic spices, along with crunchy onions and capsicum. It is easy to make this dhaba-style kadai chicken at home with this authentic recipe.
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Instant Pot Butter Chicken Recipe
A creamy and delicious Butter chicken or Murgh Makhani made in the Instant Pot. Chicken cooked in a mildly spiced tomato gravy with aromatic ginger, garlic and spices.
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Instant Pot Goat Curry / Mutton Masala Recipe
A simple North Indian style goat curry. Enjoy the tender and moist meat in a flavorful gravy with the aroma of whole spices.
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Mom’s Chicken Curry
Mom’s authentic Chicken Curry made in a simple onion-tomato gravy with the aroma of whole spices.
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Achari Chicken
Achari Chicken is an authentic Indian chicken curry that can be made as a one-pot dish in just 45 minutes. The pickling "achari" spices, such as nigella seeds, fennel seeds, fenugreek, and mustard seeds, add a punch of spicy and tangy flavors to this achari curry.
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Keema Recipe
Keema Curry is one of the most popular Indian & Pakistani dishes made with ground meat. It is an easy one-pot dish that can be made in just 30 minutes. Keema or minced meat is cooked with onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and aromatic spices, to make the most flavorful Keema Matar that the whole family will love.
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Aloo Gosht
This delightful Aloo Gosht is made with goat meat (or lamb) with potatoes, simmered in a fragrant blend of spices. This easy, authentic, one-pot recipe makes tender, flavorful lamb & potato curry you will fall in love with!
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Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
Flavorful and aromatic Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala made with marinated tender chicken cooked in a creamy sauce. This restaurant quality chicken curry is so easy to make in the instant pot. Make it along with rice pot-in-pot for a complete meal.
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Appetizers
Samosa Recipe
Crispy, flaky Samosa is the perfect appetizer for any celebration. Filled with a spicy potato filling, this Samosa is also vegan!
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Paneer Tikka (Air Fryer, Oven & Grill Recipe)
The best restaurant-style Tandoori Paneer Tikka at home. With the marinated paneer and crispy vegetables, this Indian appetizer is packed with lots of flavor. Enjoy paneer tikka with this easy recipe to make in the air fryer, oven or grill!
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Dahi Vada (Dahi Bhalla Chaat)
This favorite Dahi Vada or Dahi Bhalla recipe has the softest lentil fritters drenched in creamy yogurt and topped with sweet and spicy chutneys. This popular Indian street food is loved by all and is a perfect inclusion to any festive menu!
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Easy Paneer Pakora
Paneer pakora is a popular Indian snack in which soft paneer (Indian cottage cheese) pieces are deep-fried after being coated in a spiced gram flour batter. These paneer fritters have a crispy exterior and a soft interior.
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Chicken Tikka Kebab
Chicken Tikka Kebab is a delicious appetizer that is packed with flavor. It starts with chicken pieces marinated in yogurt along with lime juice and aromatic spices, then threaded onto skewers and cooked to create a delicious appetizer. Make it in the air fryer or oven to serve at the gathering, or include it into your meal prep for the week!
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Hariyali Paneer Tikka
Hariyali Paneer Tikka is a delectable Indian appetizer made with cubes of soft paneer, crisp bell pepper, and onions marinated in cilantro, and mint, along with yogurt and spices. Enjoy this quick and easy Haryali paneer tikka that can be made in the air fryer, oven, or grill!
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Condiments
Mint Cilantro Chutney Recipe (Indian Green Chutney)
A cool, spicy and tangy green chutney. This no-cook mint cilantro chutney is a must try accompaniment to Indian food such as samosa, chaat, kebabs and sandwiches.
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Indian Onion Salad (Laccha Pyaaz)
This popular Indian salad – sliced onion rings tossed in a tangy, spicy dressing and fresh herbs, makes it a perfect accompaniment for your Indian curry. This is not only gluten-free but a no-oil salad. Perfect for Vegetarians and Vegans!
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Kachumber (Indian Cucumber Salad)
This healthy satisfying kachumber salad is so easy and refreshing. Made with chopped veggies and seasoned with spices, serve it as a side with any Indian food. It is vegan, oil-free, and gluten-free.
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Easy Boondi Raita
This easy traditional Indian condiment Boondi Raita is so crispy and creamy. Made with whisked yogurt and flavored with spices. It is gluten-free and goes very well with an Indian meal.
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Easy Cucumber Raita
This easy homemade Indian Cucumber Raita is so refreshing. Made with grated cucumber, yogurt, and flavored with spices, it a perfect easy side dish. Serve it as an accompaniment to biryani, pulao or any Indian meal.
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Breads
Aloo Paratha
Aloo Paratha is a special North Indian layered flatbread stuffed with spiced mashed potatoes. The parathas are roasted on the hot griddle until crisp and brown on the outside. Serve them with pickle and yogurt for an authentic Punjabi breakfast. Here is my mom's recipe to make the best aloo parathas.
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Roti (Chapati)
Roti, also known as Chapati or Phulka, is a staple in most Indian homes. This whole wheat Indian flatbread is typically enjoyed as a side with curries or lentils.
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Paneer Kulcha
Learn how to make ultra-flaky Amritsari-style Paneer Kulcha with me. These flatbreads are famous in North India for their crispy layers of dough and delicious variety of fillings. My version is stuffed with soft paneer, onions, ginger, chillies and a blend of toasted spices. I grill each Kulcha over an open flame and finish the flaky breads with a pool of melting butter.
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Bhatura
Popular puffed Indian deep fried bread, bhatura is best enjoyed with chole (spiced chickpea curry). Chole Bhature is one of North India’s most popular dish!
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Vegan Naan
Naan is a popular Indian flatbread, and this vegan naan is just as good if not better than Indian restaurant naan. It's fluffy and pillowy, soft and chewy yet crisp and flaky in some spots. It melts in your mouth and is the perfect bread for scooping up delicious Indian curries. Plus, it requires just a handful of simple ingredients.
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Paneer Paratha
Paneer Paratha is a delicious, whole wheat flatbread stuffed with Indian cottage cheese, aromatic herbs, and spices. This stuffed paratha is popularly served for breakfast or lunch in North India. Here is my mom's recipe to make the best paneer parathas.
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Mooli Paratha (Radish Stuffed Flatbread)
Mooli Paratha is a flavorful and nutritious stuffed flatbread made with grated white radish, spices, and whole wheat flour. Serve these mooli parathas for a traditional Punjabi breakfast with pickles and yogurt.
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Makki ki Roti (Punjabi Cornmeal Flatbread)
Makki ki Roti is a gluten-free flatbread made with yellow cornmeal or maize flour. It is popularly served in North India, along with Sarson ka Saag (mustard greens curry). Learn how to make makki ki roti along with all the tips and tricks with this easy recipe.
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Rice
Peas Pulao (Matar Pulao)
This fragrant and flavorful Peas Pulao (Matar Pulao) is a staple in most Indian homes. Basmati rice is cooked with whole spices and green peas. It is delicious and effortless to make in the instant pot or stovetop. Pair this peas pulao as a side dish with any curry or dal for a wonderful meal!
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Instant Pot Chicken Biryani
This Instant Pot Chicken Biryani has fragrant rice cooked with tender juicy chicken along with lots of warming spices and caramelized onions. This Indian chicken and rice dish is popular all over the world. This one-pot version made in a pressure cooker is easy to make even on busy weeknights in less than an hour.
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Chana Pulao (Chickpea Pulao)
Chana Pulao, also called Chickpea Pulao, is an easy, flavorful recipe perfect for weeknights. With just 10 minutes of prep time, this one-pot pulao can be made in the Instant Pot or on the stovetop.
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Wadi Chawal (Punjabi Wadi Rice)
A flavorful and nutritious Punjabi rice recipe, this Wadi chawal is a delicious wholesome meal. Made with aromatic whole spices, wadiyan and basmati rice, this wadi pulao or biryani is a heathy meal for the whole family.
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Instant Pot Vegetable Biryani
One-pot Vegetable Biryani made in the instant pot, is so easy to cook with the same authentic flavors! Fragrant basmati rice cooked with lots of vegetables, and aromatic whole spices and herbs. This delicious flavorful Veg Biryani ready in less than 30 minutes, and is perfect for a weeknight dinner with a side of raita or for special occasions.
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Drinks
Homemade Sweet Lassi
This popular homemade sweet lassi is a refreshing, creamy, and cooling drink for summer. Made with a blend of yogurt, sugar and cardamom, it perfectly complements the spices in Indian food.
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Mango Lassi Recipe
Fresh Mango Lassi made with just a few ingredients, is so creamy and refreshing. This Mango Lassi, which is a favorite to enjoy at Indian restaurants, can be easily made at home in no time!
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Badam Milk (Indian Saffron Almond Milk)
Badam Milk is a delightful Indian drink made with ground almonds, cardamom powder, and saffron. This aromatic & flavorful Badam Doodh can be served cold in the summer or hot in the winter.
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Refreshing Shikanji Nimbu Pani (Indian Lemonade)
This homemade Indian lemonade, also known as Shikanji or Nimbu Pani, is so refreshing, flavorful, and helps to beat the summer heat. Made with lime juice, sugar, water, and spices, It can be served at any time of the day.
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Desserts
Gajar ka Halwa (Carrot Halwa)
Gajar ka halwa is a popular Indian dessert made from grated carrots cooked in milk and sugar, laced with cardamom and garnished with roasted nuts. Learn how to make authentic rich and creamy carrot halwa!
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Atta halwa | Kada Prasad
Atta Halwa, also known as wheat halwa, is a famous Indian dessert prepared with whole wheat flour (aata). This four-ingredient sweet dish is also offered as Kada Prasad at Gurudwaras (Sikh Temples) worldwide.
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Sooji Halwa Recipe | Sheera | Indian Semolina Pudding
Suji Ka Halwa, also known as Sheera is a simple Indian semolina pudding, made with basic ingredients – semolina, sugar, and ghee. Sooji ka halwa tastes simply divine, and takes just 20 minutes to prepare.
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Rice Pudding / Kheer – Instant Pot
An Indian favorite dessert for special occasions – Rice pudding made with rice and milk infused with saffron, cardamom and assorted dried fruits.
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Badam Halwa with Almond Flour
Badam Halwa is a classic rich and luscious Indian dessert made with just 4 main ingredients of almonds, milk, sugar, ghee, and laced with cardamom and saffron. This Badam Halwa is put together quickly in less than 25 minutes using almond flour!
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Gulab Jamun
Gulab Jamun is the most popular Indian dessert. Gulab Jamun’s are deep-fried donut-like balls soaked in sweet rose-flavored syrup. Learn to make the best gulab jamun’s with khoya or milk powder, along with all the tips and tricks to get them melt-in-the-mouth soft.
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Besan Barfi Recipe
Besan Barfi, also called Besan ki Chakki, is a delicious, fudgy, and melt-in-mouth traditional delight. Besan ki Burfi is a authentic sweet prepared with just a few basic ingredients – gram flour, ghee, sugar, flavored with cardamom and saffron.
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Zarda Sweet Rice / Meethe Chawal Recipe
Meethe Chawal or Zarda Rice is a sweet and rich rice preparation loaded with dry fruits, sugar and ghee. This aromatic sweet saffron flavored rice is royal dessert made on special occasions and festivals.
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