Simple and Delicious Pakistani Recipes for Kids
Pakistani food is full of color, flavor, and tradition. Some dishes are spicy, while others are sweet and comforting. Cooking these recipes at home is a fun way to explore Pakistani culture together with your child. Here are some easy and tasty recipes you can try as a family!
Shahi Tukra – The Royal Bread Dessert
Ingredients
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5 slices of bread (crusts removed)
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4 cups of milk
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4 tablespoons sugar
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2 tablespoons oil
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Saffron powder (optional)
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Raisins or dried plums for garnish
Directions
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Cut each slice of bread into four triangles.
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Fry the bread pieces in oil on both sides until golden brown.
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In a pot, boil the milk and sugar to make a slightly thick sauce.
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Add saffron (if using) and reduce the heat.
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Soak the fried bread slices in the milk sauce.
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Garnish with raisins or dried plums. Serve warm!
Dhal – Pakistani Lentil Stew
Ingredients
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1 cup dried lentils
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3 cups water
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon turmeric
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1½ teaspoons cumin
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1 teaspoon grated ginger
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1 teaspoon salt
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Directions
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In a large pan, heat the oil and sauté the onion, garlic, and spices.
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Add the water and lentils and bring to a boil.
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Cover and simmer on low heat for 45 minutes until soft.
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Remove the cover and stir for 20 minutes until thick.
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Serve with rice for a warm and healthy meal!
Aaloo Bukhary Ki Chutney – Sweet and Spicy Plum Chutney
Ingredients
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1 cup prunes (dried plums)
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2 cups water
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½ cup sugar
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½ cup vinegar
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Salt, red chili powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper (to taste)
Directions
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In a saucepan, add the prunes, water, and all spices. Boil for 5 minutes.
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Reduce the heat and stir in sugar until it melts.
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Add vinegar and boil again for 2 more minutes.
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Serve warm or cool with bread, rice, or meat dishes.
Simple Pakistani Desserts and Drinks
These sweet and refreshing treats are loved by children in Pakistan and are easy to make at home too!
Lassi – Cool Yogurt Drink
Ingredients
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3 cups plain yogurt
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½ cup water
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1 teaspoon salt or sugar
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3 to 4 ice cubes
Directions
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Blend all ingredients until smooth.
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Pour into glasses and enjoy chilled!
Kheer – Creamy Rice Pudding
Ingredients
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1 cup uncooked rice
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½ gallon milk
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1½ cups sugar
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¼ cup crushed almonds or pistachios
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¼ cup raisins
Directions
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In a large pot, bring rice and milk to a boil.
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Lower the heat and stir in sugar and nuts.
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Simmer for 10 minutes.
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Sprinkle raisins on top. Serve warm or cold!
Raita – Yogurt and Veggie Side Dish
Ingredients
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1 cup plain yogurt
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3–4 cups of chopped vegetables (like cucumber, spinach, potatoes)
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½ cup chopped onion
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2 tablespoons fresh mint
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½ teaspoon cumin, salt, black pepper
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¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Directions
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Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
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Chill and serve as a side with spicy foods or rice dishes.
How Dinolingo Can Make Learning About Pakistan Even More Fun
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