Iconic dishes & drinks in India

Indian cuisine consists of a variety of regional and traditional cuisines native to the Indian subcontinent. Given the diversity in soil, climate, culture, ethnic groups, and occupations, these cuisines vary substantially and use locally available spices, herbs, vegetables, and fruits.

Dahl

A staple of Indian cooking, there are many different kinds of Dahl. A popular dish often seen on a Thali is the classic vegetarian dish – Dal. Made chiefly from beans, peas, or lentils, Dal is consumed widely in staunchly vegetarian regions. It is versatile and easy to make. It is high in protein and fibre and always contains immune-building aromatics of fresh ginger, garlic, and turmeric.

Palak Paneer

Another famous vegetarian dish – Palak paneer. An intensely green sauce of spinach and spices coating cubes of firm paneer cheese.

Iconic dishes & drinks in India

Tandoori Chicken

Thanks to the Afghans, a favourite among many Indian regions is Tandoori Chicken – tender, brick-red chicken marinated in a mix of yoghurt and strong spices then cooked in a flaming-hot Tandoori clay oven. This marvel of a cooking vessel from Afghanistan has also helped make Naan Bread what it is today. Cooked on the sidewalls of the oven, Naan can be served plain or filled with potato, lamb or even cheese. Afghani-style Naan is made with coconut and nuts inside and is called Peshwari.

Iconic dishes & drinks in India

Rogan Rosh

A favourite from the Kashmiri region, Rogan Josh – a rich meat curry with meat (traditional lamb), Kashmiri chillies, a heady spice mix, and tomatoes, all cooked low and slow until tender and hearty and finished with fresh coriander.

A popular way of eating in India, particularly when enjoying food with friends and family is with a Thali meaning ‘plate’. A large platter is covered with small bowls of a range of different curries or side dishes with rice in the middle and naan bread on the side all to eat with your hands – the definition of finger-licking good!

Sweets-India

When it comes to sweets in India, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious. Often prepared for celebrations like weddings or festivals, they are vibrant and colourful and commonly covered in silver and gold leaves. A favourite among locals, Coconut Cardamom Burfi – a sweet combination of coconut, condensed milk, cardamom and crushed pistachios that’s rolled into bite-sized balls.

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