Amritsar is the first city that comes to mind when we think of Punjabi cuisine. Delicious kulchas and masaledar chole await you in “Ambarsar,” a culinary wonderland. There are many examples of urban specialties making their way to distant parts of the country. Now, during one of Delhi’s newest food festivals, locals can sample delicious Amritsari fare as well. Dilli 32 at The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel in Shahdara is hosting a festival hosted by chef Satyabir Tyagi and titled “Ambarsariya.” Throughout, the deliciousness and abundance of Amritsari cuisine are praised for what they are.
We started off our meal with the Bhuttian de Kebab—corn patties filled with cheese cooked over a griddle—as well as the Rajma di Tikkiyan—a similar concept but made with rajma instead. Spice lovers would enjoy these tikkis. With its tangy flavor, the Achar da Paneer was an exciting variation on the classic Paneer Tikka.
On the other hand, the Amritsari Macchi, for which the country is famous, was the undisputed star of the show. Banta ka Thanda, a carbonated lemonade flavored with jeera and other spices, was an ideal complement to the appetizers.
Moving on to the main course, the sweet and creamy lentils known as Maa Di Dal are impossible to resist. The classic Amritsari Aloo Wadi sabzi and Bharta were also delicious.The Sarson ka Saag and the Makke di Roti were particularly satisfying. We had Amritsari Kulcha and Butter Naan with our main course gravy. In addition, we sampled two tangy chutneys, one made with green chilies and the other with tomatoes. Last but not least, we finished off our lunch with some sweet and satisfying Atte Ka Halwa.
Try some of Amritsar’s delicious cuisine while you’re in the nation’s capital.
What: The Annual Ambarsariya Food Festival
Address: Room 32, Leela Ambience Convention Hotel, Shahdara, Dilli
When: 7 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., December 3rd to December 19th, 2022
Cost for two: INR 4,000 plus taxes