10 Traditional Dishes You Need To Try On Your First Visit To India

Butter Chicken (North India)Originating from Delhi, this creamy, tomato-based curry features tender pieces of chicken cooked with butter and a blend of spices. It's a global favourite, typically enjoyed with naan or rice, and is a must-try for its rich and savoury flavours.Rogan Josh (Kashmir)This aromatic curry hails from Kashmir and features tender lamb cooked in a rich gravy made with yoghurt, garlic, and various spices. The dish is known for its deep red colour, which comes from using Kashmiri chillies, and its flavourful, warming taste.Masala Dosa (South India)A beloved South Indian dish, masala dosa is a crispy, thin pancake made from fermented rice and lentil batter, filled with a spicy potato mixture. It's served with coconut chutney and sambar, a tangy lentil soup, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.Biryani (Pan-India)This fragrant rice dish, made with aromatic basmati rice, meat (chicken, mutton, or fish), and a mix of spices, is a staple in Indian cuisine. Each region has its version, but the Hyderabadi biryani is particularly famous for its unique blend of flavours and fragrant aroma.Palak Paneer (Punjab)This nutritious and flavourful dish from Punjab features paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked with pureed spinach, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices. It's a popular vegetarian option known for its vibrant green colour and creamy texture.Vada Pav (Mumbai)Often referred to as the Indian burger, vada pav is a popular street food in Mumbai. It consists of a spicy potato fritter sandwiched between a bun, accompanied by tangy chutneys. It's a quick and delicious snack that's loved by locals and visitors alike.Chole Bhature (Punjab)A hearty dish from Punjab, chole bhature features spicy chickpea curry (chole) served with deep-fried bread (bhature). It's a favourite for breakfast or lunch, offering a satisfying combination of flavours and textures.Dhokla (Gujarat)This light, fluffy snack from Gujarat is made from fermented rice and chickpea batter, steamed and seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chillies. Dhokla is a popular snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.Pani Puri (North India)Also known as golgappa or puchka, pani puri is a beloved street food in North India. It consists of crispy hollow puris filled with spicy, tangy water, tamarind chutney, and a mix of potatoes, chickpeas, and spices. It's a fun and flavourful treat.Litti Chokha (Bihar)A traditional dish from Bihar, litti chokha features whole wheat dough balls stuffed with roasted gram flour and spices, served with chokha, a mix of roasted eggplant, tomatoes, and spices. It's a rustic and hearty meal that's full of flavour.10 Foods To Try On Your Gangtok TourRead More