India is the most colorful and spice-filled country. As a secular nation, it is home to many different cultures. And when it comes to diverse cultures, it is obvious there will be variations in food. Indian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, colors, and aromas that reflect the country’s rich cultural diversity. From the Himalayas to the tropical beaches, Indian cuisine offers a wide array of dishes and ingredients.
In this article, I will explore famous dishes from dynamic places across India.
Delhi
The capital city of India is known for its flavorful spices and diverse food. Here are some of the most famous foods you must try when in Delhi.
1. Chole Bhature
This dish is a combination of spicy, flavorful chickpea curry served with deep-fried bread made from maida (refined wheat flour). The dough is kneaded with yogurt and sometimes baking soda, which makes the bread soft, fluffy, and slightly tangy. The dough is rolled into large, round shapes and fried until golden and puffed up. The chole (chickpea curry) is made using onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a mix of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. The chickpeas are cooked until soft, creating a thick gravy that is rich with Indian spices.
2. Butter Chicken
Also known as Murgh Makhani, this creamy North Indian dish is very famous in Delhi. It consists of boneless marinated chicken mixed with yogurt, lemon juice, and spices like red chili powder, garam masala, turmeric, and cumin. The marinated chicken is usually grilled or roasted until tender and slightly charred, which adds a smoky flavor to the dish.
The gravy, used as a base, is a silky tomato sauce made with ripe tomatoes, lots of butter, cream, and a mixture of spices such as ginger, garlic, and dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), which add depth to the flavor. The sauce is cooked until it becomes smooth and creamy. Butter chicken is typically served with naan or roti.
3. Dilli ki Chaat
Dilli Chaat refers to the vibrant and diverse street food snacks, collectively known as chaat, that are popular on the bustling streets of Delhi (often called Dilli). These chaats are an explosion of flavors. Papdi chaat, aloo tikki chaat, pani puri/golgappa, and dahi bhalla are some of the famous chaat varieties in Delhi’s streets.
4. Nihari
Nihari is a slow-cooked meat stew. The key ingredient is usually lamb or beef bone marrow, which is cooked overnight with a mixture of Indian spices to give a rich flavor and a buttery, juicy texture. It’s traditionally eaten as a breakfast dish.
5. Kulfi
In summer, everyone is obsessed with kulfi. Delhi’s hot summers are the perfect time to enjoy this treat. Kulfi is a traditional ice cream made with flavored thickened milk. Flavors like cardamom, cinnamon, saffron, or pistachio are commonly used.
Lucknow
Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most culturally rich cities in India. Known for its historical significance, vibrant culture, and hospitality, Lucknow is famous for its rich and diverse cuisine, deeply influenced by Mughal traditions. The people of Lucknow have a deep love for food, especially dishes that are rich, flavorful, and aromatic. Here are some famous dishes in Lucknow:
6. Galouti Kebab
Galouti Kebab is the most famous non-vegetarian dish in Lucknow. If you ever go to Lucknow as a guest, you will definitely be served Galouti Kebab. This kebab is known for its melt-in-the-mouth texture and delicate flavors. Traditionally, it is made with minced lamb or mutton, along with a blend of spices including cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and mace. Some recipes use as many as 150 spices. To achieve the smooth texture, binding agents like roasted gram flour (besan), yogurt, and sometimes mashed raw papaya are used. Papaya acts as a natural meat tenderizer, giving the kebabs their soft texture.
7. Lucknowi Biryani
Also known as Awadhi Biryani, this is a classic dish from the kitchens of the Nawabs of Awadh, representing the finesse and subtlety of Lucknow’s royal cuisine. Lucknowi Biryani originated in the kitchens of the Nawabs of Awadh during the Mughal era. It is not just famous in Lucknow but all over India. Food lovers appreciate its sophisticated taste. Lucknowi Biryani perfectly represents the elegance and culinary mastery of Awadhi cuisine.
8. Sheermal
Sheermal is a type of flatbread that is saffron-flavored and slightly sweet. It originated from the royal kitchens of the Mughal era. The ingredients used include milk, flour, saffron, ghee, sugar, and yeast or baking powder. The dough is kneaded with these ingredients and allowed to rest for a while. It is then rolled flat into a round disk shape, about 6-8 inches in diameter. Traditionally, sheermal is baked in a tandoor, but it can also be baked in a regular oven if made at home.
9. Korma
Korma is a Mughal and Awadhi dish. It’s a rich, flavorful, and creamy-textured curry made with meat and vegetables. Its luxurious texture and subtle flavors make it a favorite among those who appreciate refined cuisine. Whether served at a royal feast or a family dinner, korma remains a timeless classic in Indian cooking.
Kolkata
The capital of West Bengal is a city known for its cultural heritage, vibrant art, and diverse and delicious food.
10. Fish Curry
Fish is commonly eaten in Kolkata and is a favorite among the people. Fish curry, called “macher jhol” in Bengali, is the most famous dish. It is typically made with large freshwater fish like rohu or katla. In Bengali households, fish curry is eaten on an almost regular basis.
11. Rosogolla
Rosogolla is the most famous sweet in Kolkata. It is a spongy, syrupy dessert made from chhena (Indian cottage cheese) and dipped in sugar syrup.
12. Mishti Doi
Mishti doi is another traditional sweet. It is a sweet yogurt made from thickened milk and sugar or jaggery. It is fermented overnight to develop a rich, creamy texture and a slightly caramelized flavor. Mishti doi is often served during festivals or special occasions.
13. Kosha Mangsho (Spicy Mutton Curry)
Kosha Mangsho is a slow-cooked mutton curry with spiced flavors. It is a thick curry typically made with onions, garlic, ginger, and a host of spices, and is served with luchi or paratha. You must visit Golbari in Shyambazar for “Kosha Mangsho” or spicy mutton curry.
14. Chingri Malai Curry
This is a rich and creamy prawn curry made with coconut milk and flavored with mild spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. The dish is luxurious and is often reserved for special occasions. Chingri (prawns) are highly valued in Bengali cuisine.
15. Shorshe Ilish (Hilsa Fish in Mustard Sauce)
Hilsa fish is considered the queen of fishes, and Bengalis’ most favorite fish is Hilsa (Ilish). Shorshe Ilish is the most famous and loved dish. It is a classic preparation where the fish is cooked in a mustard sauce, giving it a sharp and pungent flavor. Personally, I love this dish very much.
In this article, I have tried to list the most famous dishes that Indian people love to eat. I hope to publish another article on this topic and explore more cuisines in various parts of India.