25+ Traditional Pakistani Dishes (with Recipes)
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Welcome to a roundup of 25+ popular and traditional Pakistani dishes! This list features kebabs, classic main dishes, desserts, and drinks along with their recipes.
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So what is Pakistani food anyway?
Now here’s an elusive question that I’ve given endless thought to in my years of blogging.
Pakistan was established just 73 years ago, but the food in that particular region has been around much longer. So when we refer to Pakistani food, we are referring to the food of that particular region.
When describing Pakistani cuisine, it’s almost natural to compare it to Indian cuisine. But Pakistani cuisine itself is as complex and varied.
For example, Lahore, Pakistan and Amritsar, India have a 31 mile distance, so you can imagine how similar the cuisine would be. Similarly, there are undeniable influences of Afghani cuisine in parts of Pakistan. My friend Maryam, founder of the award-winning blog Pakistan Eats, writes more extensively on Pakistani cuisine, and you can find many of her insightful pieces here.
What is the famous food of Pakistan?
Pakistan is famous for its Moghul-inspired cuisine: pulaos, biryanis, kababs, and kormas. In contrast with India, Pakistan is known for its heavier use of meat, particularly beef.
I’d like to point out that this blog doesn’t highlight some of the lesser-known, yet equally traditional dishes across Pakistan. For example, my sister-in-law is Pashtun (Pakhtun) and once prepared a delightful, gently spiced Namak Gosht (salted meat). Those types of dishes aren’t mainstream, but nonetheless are an important part of Pakistani cuisine.
25+ Traditional Pakistani Dishes
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but a compilation of popular Pakistani recipes that I have on my blog. From my growing collection of Pakistani recipes, I have narrowed it down to just 25+ recipes that I felt were representative of Pakistani cuisine.
Kababs & Snacks
Easy Dahi Bhalla (Dahi Bara) – Foolproof!
Here's an easy-to-follow, foolproof recipe for fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth Dahi Bhalla (or Dahi Bara). This recipe includes troubleshooting tips and tricks to get them soft yet fully cooked inside. Tested to perfection!
Check out this recipe
Easy Shami Kebab (Instant Pot and Stovetop)
Shami kebabs are tender patties made with beef and (yellow split peas) along with onion, herbs and spices. This recipe includes Instant Pot and stovetop instructions! Naturally gluten-free!
Check out this recipe
Pakistani Seekh Kebab (Ground Beef Skewers)
A simple, uncomplicated Seekh Kebab recipe made with ingredients you likely have on hand. This recipe includes tips on how to make flavorful, tender kebabs that don't break or fall off the skewers. Includes pan-frying, baking, and air-frying instructions.
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The Best Chapli Kabab
A Chapli Kabab recipe that's simple and easy to make yet tastes like it's from an Afghan or Pakistani restaurant. This recipe includes tips on how to get them crisp and juicy without breaking or falling apart. Tested to perfection!
Check out this recipe
Chicken Kofta (Ground Chicken Meatballs)
A quick and easy Chicken Kofta (or Ground Chicken Meatballs) recipe packed with spices and aromatics for fresh, fusion flavor. This recipe includes pan-frying, baking, and air-frying instructions.
Check out this recipe
CRISPY ALOO TIKKI – Shortcut Potato Cutlets
This recipe for Pakistani-style Aloo Tikki is made with mashed potatoes, onions, herbs, and spices. It's easy in that it uses a microwave to cook your potatoes and a food processor to chop up your veggies.
Check out this recipe
Panjeeri – Postpartum Healing and Lactation Recipe
Panjeeri (or Panjiri) is a tasty traditional Pakistani/Indian postpartum healing and lactation food that is perfect for new moms and for strengthening the body.
Check out this recipe
Easy Vegetable Raita Recipe (15 Minutes!)
Learn how to make Raita with this easy and traditional recipe! Raita is a classic yogurt salad that completes many Pakistani and Indian meals. I’ve included my family’s trick for avoiding the cucumber’s bitterness, plus optional add-ins to give you an idea of the endless possibilities.
Check out this recipe
10-Minute Mint Raita (Restaurant-Style)
This Mint Raita recipe is the perfect condiment for biryani, kebabs, and so much more. Make this restaurant-style raita in less than 10 minutes!
Check out this recipe
Vegetarian Dishes
Easy Sarson Ka Saag (Stovetop & Instant Pot)
This post will teach you how to make authentic Punjabi-style Sarson Ka Saag (Mustard Greens & Spinach Curry) at home. This recipe includes stovetop and Instant Pot cooking instructions, plus substitutions if you can’t find mustard greens. Ready in under 1-hour, this recipe is the easiest path to a nostalgic vegetarian curry. Tested to perfection!
Check out this recipe
Palak Paneer (Easy, Restaurant-Style)
Palak Paneer, or Saag Paneer, is a restaurant-famous spinach and paneer curry. This recipe is crowd-pleasing with complex yet balanced, authentic flavor. It's also easy-to-follow, requires one pan if you skip pan-searing the paneer, and takes 50 minutes from start to finish! Tested to perfection!
Check out this recipe
Aloo Baingan – Eggplant and Potato Curry
Here's an easy Aloo Baingan (Eggplant/Aubergine and Potato Curry) recipe made with simple ingredients you likely have on hand. This is a Pakistani & North Indian-style vegan curry that's tasty enough to serve guests. Tested to perfection!
Check out this recipe
MATAR PANEER (Easy + Flavorful, Restaurant-Style)
Matar Paneer is a North Indian dish with Peas (Matar) and Paneer in a rich, tomato-based curry. This recipe is easy-to-follow with nuanced, restaurant-style flavor and texture. Includes tips for soft paneer whether you choose to pan-fry it or not. Tested to perfection!
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Pakistani Urad Dal (Maash Ki Dal)
Maash ki Dal, or sukhi (dry) split urad dal, may not be mainstream, but it's beloved by all who've tried it. This recipe makes it in the traditional Pakistani and Punjabi way – dry, as in firm, but cooked through – and adorned with delicate slivers of ginger and warming green chili peppers.
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Punjabi Kadhi Pakora (Stovetop and Instant Pot)
This classic Punjabi-style Kadhi recipe is easy-to-follow but delivers on homestyle flavor. If you’re new to Kadhi, you’ll love this detailed, fool-proof recipe. Includes Instant Pot and Stovetop instructions!
Check out this recipe
Easy Baingan Bharta (Oven Roasted/Broiled Eggplant Curry)
Baingan Bharta is a prized Indian and Pakistani (Punjabi) dish. It consists of roasted eggplant in a delicately spiced dry curry. This recipe includes instructions on how to broil it in the oven, plus some essential tips on how to get it to taste amazing!
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Easy Mixed Vegetable Curry
Here’s a quick and easy Mixed Vegetable Curry recipe that’s perfect as a weeknight dinner or simple curried vegetable side dish. This Punjabi-style vegetable curry with potatoes and peas that has become a Tea for Turmeric community favorite! Tested to perfection!
Check out this recipe
Easy & Authentic Bhindi Masala (Okra Curry)
This easy Pakistani & Indian-style Bhindi Masala recipe (Okra curry) consists of stir-fried okra enveloped in a savory onion and tomato curry. I’ve tested this dry bhindi curry recipe countless times and I’m confident it will blow you away.
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Pakistani Zucchini (Courgette) Curry | Toriyan (Torai ki Sabzi)
Adored by thousands, this easy Zucchini (Courgette) Curry is truly astonishing. This is a next-level tasty vegan curry that'll transform everyday Zucchini into something even kids will love!
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Chana Pulao (Chickpea Pilaf) – 20-minute prep!
A Chana Pulao (Chickpea Pulao) recipe that promises full flavor, tender chickpeas, and fluffy rice. This recipe takes 20 minutes of initial (pre-rice cooking) prep time but it’s tasty and elegant enough to serve as main dish for guests. Includes Stovetop and Instant Pot instructions! Tested to Perfection!
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Cauliflower and Potato Curry (Aloo Gobi)
Here's a Cauliflower and Potato Curry (Aloo Gobi) recipe made in the traditional Punjabi way. This vegan curry recipe is easy & authentic and requires one pot and simple ingredients.
Check out this recipe
Instant Pot Pakistani Chana Dal
This is an easy Pakistani Chana Dal made in the Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker). Chana Dal (or Split Chickpeas) are cooked with spices and given a simple tadka for an easy dinner. Naturally gluten-free and Vegan optional.
Check out this recipe
Meat (Beef & Goat/Lamb) Dishes
Mutton Pulao (Goat/Lamb Pulao)
A classic but easy-to-follow Mutton Pulao recipe that promises deep flavor, tender goat or lamb, and fluffy rice. It’s also designed to double so you can serve it to guests with confidence. Tested to perfection!
Check out this recipe
Aloo Gosht (Mutton/Lamb and Potato Curry)
Aloo Gosht is a traditional Pakistani-style Mutton/Lamb and Potato Curry. Make this recipe with lamb or goat over stovetop or Instant Pot. Tested & perfected!
Check out this recipe
Easy Nihari (Pakistani Beef Stew)
Here's an Easy Nihari (Pakistani Beef Stew) recipe that requires 1 pot and less than 30 minutes of initial prep time. This recipe gives stovetop & slow cooker instructions and promises tender beef shank (or stew) meat. Recipe includes step-by-step and video!
Check out this recipe
Instant Pot Goat and Bell Pepper Curry
This easy Instant Pot Goat and Bell Pepper curry is a Pakistani-style mutton recipe that requires little prep time and minimal ingredients you probably have on hand! It’s perfectly spiced, a little tart, and full of flavor.
Check out this recipe
Aloo Keema (Ground Beef and Potato Curry)
Here's a recipe for an authentic, homestyle, Pakistani & North Indian style Aloo Keema (Keema Curry with potatoes). This is a traditional, one-pot recipe that's simple, easy-to make, and gives the most flavorful results!
Check out this recipe
Easy Instant Pot Pakistani Beef Curry
This Instant Pot Pakistani Beef Curry, or stew, is an easy recipe in which boneless beef stew meat is cooked alongside yogurt and whole spices. Also called Istu, or Ishto, this is a deeply flavorful yet healthy, dump-and-go Instant Pot beef recipe.
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Pakistani Beef Kofta Curry (Meatball Curry)
Beef Kofta Curry, or simply kofte, is a traditional Pakistani curry made of tender meatballs simmered in a spicy, flavorful sauce. This recipe has all the authentic flavor of old-fashioned kofte but it’s made in an easier, more approachable way.
Check out this recipe
Easy Pakistani Haleem Recipe (Instant Pot)
This Pakistani-style Haleem recipe is authentic, full of classic flavor, and the perfect consistency…Yet easy to achieve in the Instant Pot.
Check out this recipe
Chicken Dishes
The BEST Authentic Chicken Korma
This is a warm, deeply flavorful Chicken Korma recipe that has all the authentic flavor with simple, easy-to-follow instructions. Tested & perfected!!
Check out this recipe
Pakistani Chicken Biryani (The BEST!)
An uncomplicated yet authentic Chicken Biryani recipe with simple, easy-to-follow instructions (no curveballs!) and mouthwatering, traditional Pakistani and Indian flavor. Tested to perfection!
Check out this recipe
Pakistani Chicken Pulao (Yakhni Pulao)
Here's a classic Yakhni Chicken Pulao recipe that's truly hard to mess up. This recipe promises deep flavor, tender chicken, and fluffy rice. It's also easy to double so you can serve it to guests with confidence. Tested to perfection!
Check out this recipe
Matar Pulao (Peas Pulao) – 20-Minute Prep!
This Matar Pulao (peas pulao) is easy, flavorful, and it takes 20 minutes of initial prep time! Perfect for a weeknight rice dish yet elegant enough for guests. This recipe includes stovetop and Instant Pot instructions.
Check out this recipe
Instant Pot Chicken Pulao
This quick and easy Instant Pot Chicken Pulao recipe requires just 25 minutes of prep time and results in tender boneless chicken and perfectly cooked rice.
Check out this recipe
Authentic Chicken Curry (Easy Chicken Salan)
Here’s an Easy and Authentic Chicken Curry recipe made in the traditional Pakistani and North Indian style. This is a simple, approachable curry recipe that you can make at home in under an hour. Unfussy, easy-to-follow, and tested to perfection!
Check out this recipe
Pakistani Chicken Karahi
This is a restaurant-style Pakistani Chicken Karahi recipe that can be prepared quickly and easily with no finicky steps.
Check out this recipe
Easy Achari Chicken
This is an easy, fuss-free, yet flavorful recipe for Achari Chicken, or Indian and Pakistani chicken curry made with pickling spices.
Check out this recipe
Chicken Manchurian (Crispy with Gravy)
Chicken Manchurian is so popular that it's practically synonymous with Indo-Chinese cuisine. Crispy chicken enveloped in a spicy, tangy, sweet sauce…everything we love! This quick & easy recipe makes truly crispy chicken with an ample amount of sauce. Tested to perfection!!
Check out this recipe
Chicken Shashlik (Saucy with Gravy) – Indo-Chinese Recipe
Chicken Shashlik is an Indo-Chinese recipe that's made with boneless chicken, bell peppers, and onion. Similar to Chicken Manchurian, this dish is coated in a sweet and spicy gravy that's bursting with flavor. This is an easy, kid-friendly weeknight dinner that can be made quickly and easily with pantry staples.
Check out this recipe
Chicken Jalfrezi (Easy and Authentic)
Chicken Jalfrezi is a tomato-based curry made with boneless chicken, bell peppers, and onion. This recipe is easy, authentic, and brimming with flavor! Tested and perfected!
Check out this recipe
Desserts
The BEST Instant Pot Kheer
This Instant Pot Kheer (Pakistani & Indian Rice Pudding) recipe has the classic flavor of old-fashioned kheer without the fuss. This is a restaurant-inspired recipe that's been rigorously tested and perfected until I can confidently call it the BEST Instant Pot kheer.
Check out this recipe
Sooji ka Halwa (Semolina Halwa) – 20 Minute Recipe!
Sooji (or Suji) ka Halwa is a Pakistani and Indian dessert made with semolina, ghee/butter, and sugar. This is the simple, classic recipe for this already easy dessert. All you need are 4 simple ingredients to 20 minutes!
Check out this recipe
20-Minute Seviyan (Sheer Khurma)
This quick and easy Seviyan (Sheer Khurma) recipe takes around 20 minutes make from start to finish. It's a creamy, flavorful, tested-and-perfected vermicelli pudding recipe that couldn’t be easier or more delicious. Perfect on its own or with extras like dates and nuts.
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Easy Instant Pot Carrot Halwa (Gajar ka Halwa)
This authentic Instant Pot Carrot Halwa recipe is made in the traditional Pakistani & Indian style but without hours of active time over the stove. So comforting, naturally gluten-free, and only requires 6 ingredients!
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Zarda (Meethe Chawal – Sweet Rice) – Foolproof!
Here's a traditional Zarda recipe that takes the guesswork out of classic Meethe Chawal (or Sweet Rice). Yes to old-school, nostalgic flavor without fear or fuss. This recipe requires 6 ingredients, one pot (if you'd like), and around 15 minutes of active time. Tested to perfection!
Check out this recipe
Crushed Pineapple Dessert (15 Minute Prep!)
This Crushed Pineapple Dessert is the best of all worlds: 6 ingredients, less than 15 minutes of active prep time, and shockingly good. This is the perfect make-ahead dessert that I promise your guests will want seconds of. Tested to perfection!
Check out this recipe
Drinks
Easy Masala Chai (Tea) Recipe – Spiced Chai
An authentic recipe for Masala Chai (tea) or Indian Spiced Chai. This easy recipe uses black tea bags (or leaves) and whole spices and takes less than 20 minutes to make!
Check out this recipe
20-Minute Kashmiri Chai (Pink Tea)
This easy, one-pot Kashmiri Chai recipe takes less than 20 minutes to make! This is not a traditional Noon Chai recipe, but an accessible version that's still delicious (and pink)! Make it with regular green tea leaves if you can't find Kashmiri tea leaves.
Check out this recipe
The Best Mango Lassi (Restaurant-Style)
This Mango Lassi recipe makes better-than-restaurant lassi with six easy-to-find ingredients. The base of the recipe is strong while allowing you to adjust to taste according to your mangoes. Tested to perfection!
Check out this recipe
The Perfect Sweet Lassi Recipe
Watered down, not cold enough, coarse, or just bland. I’ll admit, I’ve had many a mediocre Lassi. It wasn't until I tasted my brother-in-law's version that I realized how good a classic Punjabi Lassi can be. This is my take on his Sweet Lassi recipe – creamy, smooth, frothy perfection.
Check out this recipe
Authentic Pakistani Chai
The typical Pakistani or Indian family drinks chai very different from the chai latte you get at your local coffee shop. This is an authentic cup of chai you will find brewing in the typical Pakistani kitchen.
Check out this recipe
Authentic Golden Milk (Turmeric Milk Tea)
Golden Milk (or Turmeric Milk) is an ancient Ayurvedic drink that's known for its anti-inflammatory properties. This recipe is optimized for absorption and tastes perfectly balanced. Rich with flavor, yet light and comforting.
Check out this recipe
If you get a chance to try any of these recipes, I’d love to hear from you! If you have a moment, please leave a review telling me how it was. You can also share your creations on Instagram. Thank you!
25+ Traditional Pakistani Dishes, Including Instant Pot Pakistani Chicken Curry
This Pakistani-style Instant Pot Chicken Curry includes bone-in chicken and potatoes and requires just 30 minutes of *total* prep time! Plus, check out 24 other Traditional Pakistani dishes in this roundup!
Ingredients
- 1 medium onion, roughly chopped to fit in food processor
- 1 medium or 2 small tomatoes (140-160 g), roughly chopped to fit in food processor
- ¼ cup
neutral oil
, such as avocado or grapeseed - 1 lb bone-in, cut up, skinless chicken (See notes for boneless), cleaned and excess skin removed
- 3-4 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1/3 inch ginger, crushed
- 1 small green chili pepper, stem removed and thinly sliced
- 1 ¼ tsp salt, or to taste
- 2 small russet potatoes (320 g), peeled and cut into large chunks
Whole spices
- ¼ tsp whole coriander seeds, optional
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 5-6 whole black peppercorns
- 3 whole cloves
Spice Powders
- ½ tsp mild red chili powder, or to taste
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- ¼ tsp cumin powder
- ¼ tsp coriander powder
After cooking
- 2 tbsp cilantro leaves, chopped
- ¼ tsp garam masala
Equipment
- Food Processor (Optional)
Instructions
- Place the onion in a food processor and use the pulse function to chop it finely. Remove and set aside. In the same food processor, add the tomatoes and chop into a rough purée.
- Select the high Sauté setting on the Instant Pot. Once hot, add the oil and onions and sauté until the onions turn lightly golden, about 8 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger and sauté until the raw smell disappears, about 30 seconds. Deglaze the pan with 2 tbsp of water. Add the chicken and fry it until it changes color, about 5 minutes, deglazing the pan if it starts to stick to the bottom. Add the whole spices, ground spices, salt, green chili pepper, and tomato. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, then add the potatoes along with 1 cup of water*. Mix well.
- Cancel Sauté to turn off the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and set the Pressure Release to Sealing. Select the Pressure Cook setting and cook at high pressure for 12 minutes*. Allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
- Once safe to do so, open the lid and taste and adjust salt. Garnish with garam masala and cilantro. Stir gently as the potatoes will be very tender. Serve with rice, roti, or naan.
Notes
*If using boneless chicken, add 3/4 cup water and pressure cook for 6 minutes.
Calories: 328kcal, Carbohydrates: 19g, Protein: 14g, Fat: 22g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Cholesterol: 41mg, Sodium: 821mg, Potassium: 665mg, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 2g, Vitamin A: 420IU, Vitamin C: 21mg, Calcium: 51mg, Iron: 4mg
7 Comments on “25+ Traditional Pakistani Dishes (with Recipes)”
JUST FOUND THIS WEBISTE. I AM SO glad you have instant pot recepies.
Thank you! Hope you get to try them! 🙂
Tried and loved several of your recipes!
Yay! Thanks so much for letting me know!
You have explained it very well.
Though i have not tried it yet but going through your ingredient list and follow it step by step should be easy.
Good article!
Thanks!!