Kulcha’s World Cup presence leaves Amritsaris delighted

Neha Saini

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Tribune News Service

Amritsar, June 28

At the first ever World Heritage Food Summit held last year in Amritsar, celebrated chef Manjit Gill had described Amritsari Chhole Kulcha as ‘heritage’ of the Punjabi cuisine. Michelin Star chef and Amritsar culinary expert Vikas Khanna has already dedicated significant mention in his book to the legacy of the humble Amritsari Kulcha. But the popular dish seems to have arrived on global food menu when Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri tweeted his delight over the fact that the same was served in the breakfast menu recently at the ongoing ICC World Cup 2019 during India-West Indies clash. As popular as they ever were in the Punjabi cuisine, the Amritsari Chhole Kulche have yet again proved their cult status and the reason why it finds its place among culinary heritage of not just holy city but also country.

While the unique, crispy multilayered bread, stuffed with potato or cheese, baked in earthen kiln and served with dollops of butter, has managed to hook locals as well as global food lovers’ palate. Its presence in World Cup as left local residents delighted.

Arundeep Singh, culinary expert from the city, says, “Amritsari Kulcha is among the traditional recipes of the city that has not changed its core ingredients and method of cooking despite changing times. The spices used in its preparation are simple, native and pure, lending it a unique flavor. Also, the city’s status as a food destination elevates as the typical dishes like Kulcha and Amritsari fish find their place among the top foods in the world.”

Akanksha Khanna, makeup artist, says, “I am a foodie and having grown up in Amritsar. My childhood and even adulthood is not complete without savouring kulchas every Sunday morning. It is wonderful that the humble dish from city has been recognised world over and it has always managed to draw tourists and foodies from across the globe while traveling to Amritsar. Its popularity proves that you need not be a gourmet to enjoy the most delectable dishes.”

Kulcha also finds itself on the to-do list of the who’s who. Whether it’s noted filmmaker Imtiaz Ali or actor Sonakshi Sinha or Bollywood A-listers, their visit to Amritsar is not complete without savouring the Amritsari Kulcha. Recently, on her visit to the city to promote her web series, actor Dia Mirza too had shared her desire to taste the famous dish. “I have heard a lot about Amritsari Kulcha and will love to try it.” Hearthrob Ranbir Kapoor, too, had made it his priority to visit a famous outlet serving Chole Kulcha while visiting Amritsar on one of his promotional tours.