India is known as the land of spices. Rightly so, the unique blend of spices and condiments that one can find in Indian cuisine cannot be found elsewhere. The set of diverse cultures of our country has given way to various distinct and delectable cuisines. Each culture and community has its own delicious way of representing its unique set of flavors. The various traditional cooking styles and the traditional equipment used to prepare the food make them all the more special. Traditional Indian dishes have made a mark for themselves in the world of food. We are not strangers to the fact that even foreigners start drooling when they hear about Biryani or Butter Chicken.
In this article, we will explore the traditional Indian dishes that represent a diverse set of people of our country. Some of the most popular dishes have been lovingly picked for that purpose. Let’s have a look at some of the best traditional Indian dishes that are bound to make your mouth water.
Also read: 10 Best Traditional Dishes From Odisha- Where Health Meets Taste
1. Hyderabadi Biryani
This world-famous rice dish is specially prepared in Hyderabad using the traditional dum phukt method. Hence the name. It is said to have originated from the kitchen of the Nizam of Hyderabad. It is a unique combination of both Mughlai and local cuisine. Traditionally it was only cooked with goat meat but now several variants have appeared.
Image source- Wikimedia Commons
2. Rogan Josh
This curry originates from the beautiful land of Kashmir. It is a preparation of red meat flavoured with Kashmiri chillies and alkanet flowers and roots. It is the signature dish of the Kashmiri wazwan. A slow braising of the meat in ghee is followed by cooking the meat using the dum phukt method. It is one of the most flavoursome dishes ever!
Image source- Wikimedia Commons
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3. Makke ki Roti and Sarson ka Saag
This unique combination of cooked mustard leaves and cornflour flatbread is capable of making almost anyone’s mouth water. One is incomplete without the other although the saag is the highlight of this combo. It is usually prepared during the winter season in the North Indian states, especially in Punjab and Haryana.
Image source- Wikimedia Commons
4. Tandoori Chicken
Anything baked and roasted in the traditional tandoor oven is extremely delectable. There is no denying that. Tandoori Chicken is a dish that is prepared by roasting chicken marinated with special spices and yogurt in the tandoor oven. Serve it with a slice of lemon and onions, it will taste like heaven.
Image source- Wikimedia Commons
5. Papaya Khar
Assamese Khar, Omita Khar, or simply Papaya Khar is a representative dish of the Assamese cuisine. Khar is a liquid that is obtained from sundried banana skin. Seasonal vegetables such as water gourd and papaya are cooked along with the Khar and some spices. Papaya Kar is the most famous variant.
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6. Goan Fish Curry
This famous fish curry from Goa is known for its characteristic coconut milk-based sauce and the tangy taste from the plenty of tomatoes used. It is one of the most famous traditional Indian dishes.
Image source- Flickr.com
7. Litti Choka
Litti is basically a whole wheat ball stuffed with gram flour, pulses, and several other nutritious fillings. It is usually served along with Choka which is a serving of spiced and mashed potatoes. This dish is native to the land of Bihar.
Image source- Wikimedia Commons
8. Palak Paneer
This lip-smacking vegetarian curry is one of the most loved traditional Indian dishes. Indian cottage cheese cooked with spinach puree and an assortment of Indian spices forms this delicacy.
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9. Dhokla
This is a famous traditional dish that is specific to the state of Gujarat. A fermented batter made out of rice flour, chickpea flour, and Urad Dal flour is used to prepare a Dhokla. The batter is then steamed and served with green chutney.
Image source- Wikimedia Commons
10. Kangshoi
Kangshoi is essentially a vegetable stew that is an integral part of Manipuri cuisine. It consists of seasonal vegetables that are boiled and flavoured with sliced onions, cloves, ginger, garlic, and some exotic spices. It is one of the most underrated traditional Indian dishes.
Image source- Cookpad.com
These were some of the best traditional Indian dishes handpicked from all over the country. Did we miss out on some of your favourite dishes? Do let us know in the comments section.