Explore India's Local Cuisine: Mouth-Watering Dishes Every Traveller Should Try

 

Explore India's Local Cuisine: Mouth-Watering Dishes Every Traveller Should Try

India is a country that’s known for its rich and diverse culture. From the vibrant colours of its traditional clothing to the powerful melodies of its music, India is a place where diverse cultures come together and make something truly magical. And with diversity comes variety, and in India there’s no better way to enjoy it than through its local food.

Whether you’re a curious traveller or an explorer looking for something unique to try, local food in India has something for everyone. From spicy curries to creamy treats and comforting street food, regional specialties are sure to keep your taste buds happy.

So if you’re planning on visiting India any time soon, here are the top local dishes that you just have to try.

Samosa

Perhaps one of the most iconic snacks in Indian cuisine, samosas are small, triangular-shaped pastries made with a crispy crust and filled with a tasty fry up of potatoes, onions, peas, and spices like chilli and turmeric. Samosas can be found everywhere in India and are usually served with a sweet and tangy chutney.

Dal Makhani

When it comes to curries and North Indian dishes, you would be hard-pressed to beat Dal Makhani. This delicious dish features black lentils, beans, and cream simmered together with caramelized onions, ginger, garlic, and Indian spices like cardamom and bay leaves. It’s a classic comfort food that’s sure to keep your tummy happy.

Tandoori Chicken

Tandoori chicken is one of the most popular dishes in India and is widely available at restaurants and street food stalls alike. The dish consists of chicken that’s marinated in yogurt and spices and then cooked in a tandoor, which is a cylindrical clay oven. This gives the chicken a smoky flavour, with a tender and succulent inside.

Kathi Roll

Kathi rolls, or kathi kebab rolls, are popular street food in many Indian cities. It’s a wrap made with a delicious combination of either spiced chicken, egg, or potatoes, and veggies like onions, tomatoes, and chillis. They’re usually served with some spicy chutney for an added kick.

Pani Puri

If you’re looking for something light and tasty, then you have to try Pani Puri. These tiny hollow spheres of dough are filled with a filling of potatoes, onions, and spices, and then topped with a sweet and spicy water called pani.  Pop them in your mouth for a burst of flavour in every bite.

Vada Pav

Vada Pav is a popular street food in Mumbai and is loved throughout India. It consists of deep-fried potato dumplings, or vadas, which are served in a toasted bread roll with a spicy garlic chutney. It’s usually served with a side of sweet tamarind sauce or a chutney made with peanuts, chilli powder and jaggery.

Gulab Jamun

Gulab Jamun is a classic sweet dish found in India. It’s made with a dough of either paneer or khoya, which is then deep fried dumplings and then soaked in a sugar syrup flavoured with cardamom and saffron. This sweet and irresistible treat is a must-try for anyone visiting India.

Ras Malai

Ras Malai is a classic dessert from the Indian subcontinent. It’s made with soft, spongy cottage cheese balls that are soaked in a sweet, creamy sauce flavoured with cardamom, rosewater, and saffron. This unique dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Murukku

Murukku is a popular snack from Southern India made with a combination of rice, dal, and urad, which are combined and then deep fried. This crunchy, savoury snack comes in a variety of shapes and tastes great with a cup of hot tea.

Chole Bhature

Chole Bhature is a Punjabi dish made with chickpeas in a rich, tangy gravy, served with fluffy bhatura, or fried bread. It’s usually served with some pickle and onions and makes for a perfect accompaniment to any Indian meal.

Aloo Gobi

Aloo Gobi is a North Indian dish made with potatoes and cauliflower cooked together in a spicy gravy flavoured with turmeric and garam masala. It’s a popular vegetarian dish and is great served with some chapatis or naan.

These are just a few of the innumerable delicious local specialties that you’ll find in India. Whether you’re looking for something to munch on as a snack or for a hearty dinner, there’s something for everyone’s tastes. So go out and explore India’s diverse culinary landscape and have a truly unique experience.