Traditional Indian Foods
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50 Traditional Indian Foods

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Step out of your comfort zone and into the world of Indian cuisine with these traditional Indian foods you’ll love.

Many people have an inaccurate view of Indian food, thinking it’s nothing more than curry and other spicy dishes that are too hot to handle.

Sure, curry and other spicy dishes are popular in the country, but they’re not the only foods that make up this complex cuisine!

When you think of Indian food, what else comes to mind? Tandoori chicken? Samosas? Basmati rice? Coconut curry?

Well, all of these are part of the vast array of traditional Indian foods that have evolved over thousands of years to create such an amazing cuisine today.

If you’re looking to sample some truly authentic and savory Indian cuisine, here are traditional Indian foods worth trying on your next trip!

1. Pazham Pori 

First, we start with Pazham pori on this list of traditional Indian foods. This is a traditional Indian food made with flour balls and lentils that are boiled in spicy, tamarind-flavored water. It’s usually served with yogurt or coconut chutney. 

Usually, it’s eaten for breakfast or as a snack, but it’s also popular at weddings and other special occasions. There are many variations of this dish, but the basic recipe usually includes some simple ingredients.

These are rice flour, dry red chilies, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, salt, and turmeric powder. Pazham Pori is said to have originated in Kerala, the southwestern state of India.

2. Pani Puri 

One of the different types of traditional Indian foods is the Pani Puri. It is a mixture of boiled potatoes, chickpeas, and spices such as cumin, coriander, and salt with a slight hint of sugar.

A spoonful of sweet chutney or tamarind chutney is poured into a crisp puri and then filled with the potato mixture. 

Meanwhile, the Pani Puri has been described as a crispy hollow ball made from deep-fried dough that’s shaped like a half-moon.

This dish typically comes in two sizes which are the medium size for those wanting a light snack.

Or small size for those who want something smaller. Pani means water in Hindi and is often used to refer to any type of yogurt drink or spiced water.

3. Dhokla 

Talking about the varieties of traditional Indian foods, Dhokla is one of them. This is a traditional Indian dish that is made of steamed fermented rice and fresh curd. It is usually served with Tamarind Chutney or Coconut Chutney. 

Moreso, Dhoklas are mostly eaten as a breakfast food, but they can also be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.

They can be cooked in various ways, such as boiled, baked, fried, or roasted. However, the most popular preparation method for dhoklas is steaming.

4. Pav Bhaji 

The vegetables used in this dish are usually potatoes and tomatoes. However, many variations use other vegetables instead. 

These vegetables are cooked with spices such as ginger, garlic, onion, chili peppers, and turmeric. When it’s ready to serve, it’s mixed with butter and cream (optional).

This is to make the mixture of this particular delicacy of traditional Indian foods become thick.

5. Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) 

Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, originates from the North of India. This makes it one of the traditional Indian foods.

It is a curry made from butter and tomato sauce. Other ingredients include ginger, garlic, garam masala, cayenne pepper, coriander, and heavy cream.

Further, the color varies depending on how long it is cooked; the darker the color, the spicier it will be.

Butter chicken is often served with naan bread which is leavened flatbreads. These are either baked in a tandoor (a clay oven) or on an open flame.

6. Chettinad Chicken Curry 

Chettinad Chicken Curry is one of the more popular traditional Indian foods. Traditionally, this dish includes a dry spice mix made up of coriander, cumin, fennel, fenugreek, and black pepper.

The mixture is fried in hot oil until the seeds start popping and then mixed with vegetables and yogurt. Going further, the dish is typically served with rice or bread for dipping.

If you’re looking for a traditional Indian recipe that’s easy to make and will delight even the pickiest eater, look no further than Chettinad Chicken Curry!

7. Chicken Tikka Masala 

The most popular dish in Indian cuisine is Chicken Tikka Masala, which translates as ‘chicken cooked with a masala sauce.’

The dish is made up of boneless pieces of chicken that are marinated in yogurt and spices and then grilled. 

Usually, it’s served with basmati rice or naan bread and can be eaten as an appetizer or a main course. Looking for traditional Indian foods that will make you come back for more? Here’s a perfect choice!

8. Biriyani 

Biriyani is a traditional dish from Southern India that typically consists of steamed rice, meat or vegetables, and spices.

It’s served in a large pot with the rice layered over the meat and vegetables. Guests serve themselves from the pot, dipping pieces of flatbread into the biriyani. 

The origin of biriyani can be traced back to Persia during the Mughal Empire’s rule over India from 1526-1857.

It was introduced by Persian merchants who lived in India for centuries. Of course, this was before it became popular amongst Indians as well.

Today, there are many variations of biryani, which is one of the traditional Indian foods, across India, such as Hyderabadi Biryani or Kolkata Biryani.

9. Chicken Korma 

Chicken Korma is one of the various traditional Indian foods that is served as a main course. It consists of chicken cooked in a mildly spiced cream sauce flavored with ginger and garlic.

The dish can be made spicier by adding green chilies, red chili powder, and ground black pepper. 

Other ingredients used in this dish include onions, tomatoes, heavy cream or yogurt, cumin seeds, and garam masala. What’s more? Chicken Korma has its roots in the Mughal cuisine of India and Pakistan.

This dish is usually served over rice or with naan bread on the side. Chicken Korma has many variations, including vegetarian versions using vegetables like spinach or paneer instead of chicken.

10. Mutton Rogan Josh 

Mutton Rogan Josh is a rich and spicy dish from the Northern region of India. It is made with mutton, onions, tomatoes, garlic cloves, ginger, cayenne pepper, paprika powder, and garam masala. 

The ingredients are cooked on a low flame for a long time until they become soft and succulent. The gravy is then taken off the stove, and fresh cream is added to it before serving it hot.

This dish, which is one of the sumptuous traditional Indian foods, can be served with rice or roti bread as a main course meal.

11. Hyderabadi Haleem 

On our list of traditional Indian foods is Hyderabadi Haleem, a dish originating in Hyderabad, India. It has been given the honorific royal because it was once served at banquets of the Nizams of Hyderabad State.

The dish is boiled wheat berries and lentils with meat, spices, and haleem masala (a powdered spice mix).

This process is done in water until it forms a thick paste-like consistency, though it may take up to twelve hours.

The haleem is then mixed with ghee and roasted dry whole wheat flour. Afterward, it’s served on a platter garnished with chopped coriander leaves, grated coconut, and fried onions.

12. Rajasthani Laal Maas 

Rajasthani Laal Maas is a traditional Rajasthani dish made from red meat, garlic, ginger, and onion. This dish is slow-cooked for hours until it becomes tender and juicy with a rich tomato sauce. 

This delicacy of traditional Indian foods is often served on special occasions like festivals or weddings. Rajasthani Laal Maas is usually served with either steamed rice or roti breads.

13. Chicken 65 

Chicken 65 is a spicy, deep-fried appetizer that can be found on most Indian restaurant menus. The dish is so popular that it has earned the moniker of India’s national dish.

Chicken 65 typically consists of chicken cutlets or minced chicken mixed with fresh green chili peppers and spices. These spices include ginger, garlic, cumin, and curry powder. 

Then, this mixture is coated in a spice mix, skewered with onions, and deep-fried in hot oil until crispy brown.

The final product is served on a bed of lettuce or cabbage with slices of lemon on top. Trust me; you don’t want to miss out on this particular one of the traditional Indian foods!

14. Chettinad Mutton Masala 

Chettinad Mutton Masala is a traditional Indian dish that originated in the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu. It’s made with a spicy masala paste that contains fennel, cumin seeds, cloves, cardamom pods, black peppercorns, and chili peppers. 

The meat is then cooked in this masala for hours on end until it becomes tender and has soaked up all of the spices.

Once done, it’s simmered in coconut milk and ground fenugreek leaves for added flavor. Traditionally served over hot fluffy rice with fried onion rings on top for garnish, it is one of the traditional Indian foods that offer deliciousness with nourishment!

15. Mutton Mappas 

Our list of traditional Indian foods is not complete without Mutton Mappas. This is a traditional Indian dish that is made with mutton and masala. The dish uses a combination of spices, including black pepper, coriander, and cinnamon. 

To prepare the dish, one must mix the spices, onions, tomatoes, and green chilies in a blender or food processor.

After that is done, add this mixture to a pot of simmering mutton. The dish is served with either rice or paratha bread.

16. Mutton Do Pyaza 

Speaking about traditional Indian foods that you will love, Mutton Do Pyaza is one of them. It’s not just because it’s delicious but also because it can be put together in several different ways. For example, you could use beef, lamb, or chicken instead of mutton if you don’t like the flavor. 

Besides, the only thing that really matters is that you’re using bone-in meat, so there are lots of flavors when it cooks down.

There are many different spices and vegetables used for this dish. This means everyone has their version of Mutton Do Pyaza, depending on what they have at hand.

17. Jhinga Nisha 

Jhinga Nisha is one of the traditional Indian foods that you should definitely try if you haven’t already. It is a dish with shrimp cooked in coconut milk, curry leaves, and other spices. 

These spices are usually cumin seeds, coriander, fennel seeds, red chili peppers (or dry red chili powder), turmeric powder, mustard seeds, and bay leaves.

The shrimp is removed from the shells before being marinated in this sauce for an hour or two. Finally, it is cooked on low heat for about an hour.

18. Prawn Koliwada 

Koliwada is a traditional dish from the state of Maharashtra and is an integral part of any Maharashtrian wedding celebration.

The name Koliwada comes from the word kolie, which means prawn in Marathi. This dish can be prepared with either prawn or crab as the main ingredient, depending on what is available in that region. 

Proceeding, the seafood is first boiled in a spicy and tangy curry made with tamarind, red chilies, and onions. Then, it is served with hot rice topped with ghee.

In addition to being popular for weddings, Koliwada is often served at celebrations such as Ganesh Chaturthi or Diwali. Not wanting to try these popular traditional Indian foods? Then you are wrong!

19. Karimeen Pollichathu 

Karimeen Pollichathu is a traditional Indian food made with small fish that are deep fried. Then, it is cooked in a spicy coconut-based sauce. Fish is an integral part of the diet in Kerala, India, and is eaten at least once a day. 

In addition to that, the most popular fish used for Karimeen Pollichathu is the karimeen or red snapper.

This dish can be served with rice or naan bread and is traditionally eaten with the hands. If you are willing to go all out for traditional Indian foods, Karimeen Pollichathu will do you well!

20. Bombay Duck or Bombil Rava Fry 

Bombay Duck or Bombil Rava Fry is one of the traditional Indian foods that is often served as a side dish with dinner.

To prepare it, you will need Bombay Duck or Bombil, ground turmeric, vegetable oil, cumin seeds, red onion chopped finely, and garlic chopped finely. First, heat the pan on medium-high and add the oil. 

Once heated, add the cumin seeds and fry for about 30 seconds until they start to pop. Next, add in the onion and garlic and fry for another minute before adding in the fish pieces.

You want them to be well coated with everything in the pan. As a result, ensure they’re turning brown before moving them around too much.

21. Nadan Meen Curry 

If you seek traditional Indian foods that will tantalize your taste buds, Nadan Meen Curry will do just that for you! It’s made with shrimp, tomatoes, yogurt, and coconut milk. The ingredients are blended and cooked in a saucepan over medium-high heat. 

Also, you can add other spices like salt, garlic powder, cumin seeds, or chili powder if you want some extra flavor. Then serve with steamed rice and enjoy!

22. Goan Crab Masala

Goan Crab Masala is a dish that consists of crab and spices. The Goan Crab Masala curry is one of the most popular dishes in Goa.

And it was introduced by the Portuguese when they colonized India. Coupled with that, the dish is orange because of its use of paprika as a main ingredient. 

Also, it contains other spices such as garlic, ginger, coriander seeds, cloves, cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, and cumin seeds.

Moreover, it is not just any crab that can be used for this delicious dish on the list of traditional Indian foods. Only fresh crabs found on West India’s coastlines are used to make this tasty recipe.

23. Macher Jhol 

Of the traditional Indian foods, Macher Jhol is a traditional fish dish from Bangladesh. The dish is made with a mix of spices, onions, and tomatoes, which are then cooked together with the fish until it becomes tender.

This dish can be served as an appetizer or as a main meal depending on how you want to serve it. 

Additionally, the spice mixture used in this dish is made up of cumin, coriander, chili powder, turmeric, and salt.

These ingredients give the fish a distinctive sweet flavor while also making it spicy enough for those who enjoy hot food. If you want to make Macher Jhol but don’t know where to start, don’t worry!

24. Gulab Jamun 

The Indian dessert, Gulab Jamun, is a popular choice among traditional Indian foods. The dough is made from milk, flour, and baking powder and then deep-fried in oil. 

The balls are then soaked in rose-flavored syrup or sometimes served with ice cream. It is a common dish for weddings and celebrations because it is easy to prepare and tastes delicious!

25. Gajar Ka Halwa or Carrot Halwa 

One of the most popular traditional Indian foods is Gajar Ka Halwa or Carrot Halwa. This dish is made with grated carrots, sugar, and ghee.

The ingredients are cooked on a slow fire for about 45 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and brown. 

To make this dish, you will need grated carrots, sugar, ghee, cardamom pods, and saffron threads. Gajar ka halwa can be served as a dessert or as breakfast food.

26. Jalebi 

Indian cuisine is one of the most diverse and fascinating in the world. There are regional variations of traditional Indian foods, which can include everything from rice dishes to bread and desserts. One staple of Indian cooking is a sweet snack called jalebi. 

Jalebis are long, spiral-shaped pieces of dough that are deep-fried until crisp on the outside and gooey on the inside. They come in many different flavors, including sugar, cardamom, saffron, pistachio, and rose water.

27. Mothichur Laduu 

Mothichur Laduu is a traditional Indian dish that has its origins in the state of Andhra Pradesh. The dish contains rice, fried grated coconut, sugar, cardamom, and ghee (clarified butter). 

Mothichur Laduu is a dish that’s served during festivals like Deepavali or Diwali and is often given as a gift to someone special. It’s typically eaten for breakfast or as an evening snack.

Meanwhile, it is also one of the traditional Indian foods that are super easy to make and tastes amazing.

28. Ras Malaias

Traditional Indian foods have an incredible amount of variety in cuisine. From spicy curries, naan bread, and tandoori dishes, you can experience the diverse flavors of traditional Indian foods at home.

One such dish is ras malaias, a traditional Indian sweet that is often served for dessert, especially after a meal or as a special treat on holidays and festivals. 

Furthermore, Ras malaias are soft balls of cheese (paneer) flavored with cardamom. They are wrapped in a thin dough of maida flour and deep-fried until golden brown. They are then soaked in sugar syrup made from brown sugar and water.

The balls can be coated with pistachios or almonds before they’re fried, giving them an even more delightful crunch!

29. Vada Pav 

Vada Pav is not excluded from our list of traditional Indian foods. It’s a deep-fried potato patty that is served in a crunchy, buttery bun. This dish first originated in Mumbai, but it’s now available all over India. 

The vada pav is a popular street food, so some vendors offer them different toppings like chutneys and salsas.

One of the most popular varieties of this dish is the Chole Vada Pav. This includes spicy chickpea curry as its topping.

30. Kachori 

A kachori is a deep-fried savory dough ball that is typically filled with either spiced potatoes or ground lentils. This dish can be served as an appetizer or a main course. 

Usually, Kachori is eaten with chutney, spicy pickles, and yogurt dip. These particular traditional Indian foods are best enjoyed while they’re still warm!

31. Bise Bele Bhath 

Bise Bele Bhath is a traditional Indian food that is typically made with rice, lentils, and vegetables. Many people think it’s difficult to make this dish because it contains so many ingredients.

The truth is that Bise Bele Bhath can be a little time-consuming to cook. However, the result of this amazing specialty of traditional Indian foods is totally worth it. 

Plus, there are some shortcuts you can take to make the process easier for yourself. First, let’s talk about which vegetables you should use in this dish.

Some people like to use potatoes, while others prefer carrots or greens of any kind. I think those are all great options you might want to experiment with until you find the ones your family likes best.

32. Appam and Stew 

Not missing from this list of traditional Indian foods is Appam, a thin, round, fermented rice and coconut cake.

It’s served as an accompaniment to the various stews in Kerala cuisine. Stews are thick, spicy soups that are a popular breakfast food in Kerala. 

What’s more? Appam is made with fermented rice and roasted ground coconut mixed with water and salt.

The mixture is poured into a frying pan and heated over an open flame until it reaches the right consistency.

Once cooked, the appam is set aside to cool before being cut into slices or pieces of smaller size while still hot. The slices may be covered with butter or ghee when served, but this is optional.

33. Luchi & Alur Dom (Bengali Luchi Aloo Dum) 

Luchi is a traditional Bengali dish made of a fermented batter poured into small circular molds and deep fried.

Alur Dom, also a Bengali dish, is made with potatoes and tamarind sauce. This dish can be served as an appetizer or the main course.

Whichever way it is served, as long as it is on our list of delicious traditional Indian foods, do not expect less!

34. Paneer Kofta (Kofta) 

These vegetarian balls, which are equally one of the delectable traditional Indian foods, are made with chunks of paneer cheese.

They are first mixed in with spices and mashed potatoes. Then, they are deep-fried until they are crispy on the outside and light on the inside.

35. Puttu Kadala 

Puttu Kadala is a traditional Indian dish that is basically a type of porridge made with rice and coconut milk. Puttu Kadala can be eaten for breakfast or as an evening snack.

It is typically served with Sambhar, which is a spicy lentil soup. Sambhar typically contains tamarind, tomato, garlic, and hot peppers. 

Plus, this dish can be served at any time of the day- breakfast, lunch, or dinner! And it’s not just for Indians- most cultures worldwide have their version of porridge!

Puttu Kadala is traditionally made by boiling rice in water and then adding coconut milk to it to make it rich and creamy.

We are still not done with this list of the varieties of traditional Indian foods; continue reading!

36. Bombay Sandwich 

The Bombay Sandwich is a popular and traditional Indian food. It’s made with sliced bread, butter, and two slices of tomato.

One slice of bread is spread with butter; the other is topped with sliced tomato and onion. Then the sandwich is buttered again on both sides before being grilled or toasted. 

Tandoori chicken, shawarma beef, roast beef, or lamb kebab are popular fillings for this sandwich. Indian culture has a variety of other traditional Indian foods that are also worth trying if you haven’t had the opportunity yet. Don’t stop reading yet!

37. Momos

Momos are traditional Indian foods that you will love. Momos are dumplings, often filled with vegetables and meat. They can be steamed or fried, but most people prefer them to be steamed because of the health benefits. 

In addition, Momos are not only delicious but also healthy and filling. They are perfect for when you need something satisfying but light simultaneously!

38. Gobi Manchurian 

Gobi Manchurian is a dish of stir-fried cauliflower and green onions, often in a spicy red sauce. Like some traditional Indian foods, it can also be served as an appetizer or a side dish.

This spicy dish is traditionally served with white rice or chapati. You may have seen Gobi Manchurian on the menu at your favorite Indian restaurant, but did you know that this tasty dish is actually traditional to the cuisine? 

Meanwhile, Gobi Manchurian dates back to India’s British colonial era. This was when it was thought to be a healthier alternative to deep frying battered food.

The cauliflower is coated in egg and flour before being stir-fried. Then it is seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, onion, and other spices like turmeric.

39. Mumbai Frankie 

Mumbai Frankie is a traditional Indian dish that is similar to the American dish called a burrito. A Mumbai Frankie consists of eggs, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and spices wrapped up in a flour tortilla-like wrap and then deep-fried. It is served with chutney (a spicy condiment made from fruits). 

Some other traditional Indian foods are samosas (deep-fried pastry), and dosa (rice and lentil crepes).

Pakora (fried vegetables dipped in chickpea batter) and tikka masala (chicken or lamb cooked in tomato sauce) are also traditional Indian foods. Read on to find out more about them!

40. Ragada Pattice 

One of the most well-known traditional Indian foods is Ragada Pattice, a type of deep-fried pastry that originates from the state of Gujarat.

This delicious dish combines flour and water to form a dough. This dough is then shaped into balls and flattened with a rolling pin. 

Once each ball has been flattened, it is filled with an aromatic blend of cooked peas and potatoes mixed with spices.

Spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chilis, and ginger. The ragada patties are then deep-fried in cooking oil until golden brown.

The final step for this popular dish involves serving it hot on its own or pairing it with some tamarind chutney or yogurt.

41. Thukpa (Noodle Soup) 

When you think of traditional Indian foods, you might think of tandoori chicken or samosas. And while those are delicious, they aren’t what most Indians eat daily.

What you might not know is that the majority of Indians are vegetarian. Thus, their dishes focus more on fresh vegetables and spices than meat. 

One particular dish is thukpa (noodle soup), a filling meal that can be made with either chicken or vegetable stock.

This recipe features mushrooms, carrots, celery, onions, and tomatoes for a hearty soup that will fill you up without weighing you down.

For this recipe, start by cooking your noodles according to the package instructions while preparing the vegetables.

42. Akuri on Toast 

Akuri is a scrambled egg dish seasoned with spices like cumin, turmeric, and coriander. Cooked in butter or ghee, this one of the traditional Indian foods is usually eaten for breakfast. 

Additionally, Akuri on toast is just what it sounds like: akuri on buttered bread with some chutney or pickle. The traditional meal has been given an English twist to make it breakfast-appropriate.

43. Rava Uppumavu or Upma 

Rava Uppumavu or Upma is a traditional South Indian breakfast dish made with semolina and vegetables.

This dish is usually eaten with chutneys, but it can also be served as an accompaniment to other dishes like dal. The dish originated in the state of Kerala, where it’s known as റാവ ഉപ്‍ മ മ. 

What’s more? It combines semolina and water and then cooks the mixture over low heat. Further, stir constantly until it becomes thick.

Vegetables are added to the semolina mixture and some spices before cooking it on low heat for several more minutes.

If you think you aren’t going to enjoy these traditional Indian foods, Upma will definitely prove you wrong!

44. Medhu Vada or Udin Vada 

Medhu Vada or Udin Vada are deep-fried spicy lentil fritters, which are a common breakfast food in India.

The word udina means thick, and the word medhu means butter. It is a very popular traditional Indian food for festivals, weddings, and other celebrations. 

This is mainly because it’s so delicious and easy to prepare. Proceeding, the fritter is often served with sambar (a lentil soup) or chutney (a sauce).

The ingredients include urad dal (split black gram), rice flour, cumin seeds, asafetida powder, coriander powder, green chilies, and salt. 

45. Chole Bhature 

Still, on the list of traditional Indian foods, we have Chole Bhature, a traditional Indian dish that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

It is made by combining chole (a type of spicy chickpea soup) and bhature (large round deep-fried bread). The bread soaks up the flavor from the chole, making a delicious meal together.

Further, Chole bhature can be found in many restaurants across India, but it is also very simple to make at home with these easy steps.

First, you must prepare the chole by chopping onions, tomatoes, and ginger. Next, cook them in oil with garlic, turmeric, cumin seeds, and chili powder.

Once the onion mixture has cooled down, you will add tomato puree, garam masala, and water.

46. Samosa 

Is samosa one of the traditional Indian foods? Yes! It is a popular snack in India, originating from the Punjabi region. It’s typically a fried pastry filled with spiced potatoes and peas. 

Samosa is one of the most popular snacks in India and has spread to various other parts of the world. However, its origins are rooted in the northern regions of India.

It is filled with spiced mashed potatoes, onions, peas, lentils, chicken, or other meats varying from region to region in the country. 

Usually, Samosas are wrapped in a thin unleavened dough made of maida flour. In some places like North India, they may be called Samsa or somsa. 

47. Poha 

Poha is a traditional Indian food that can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The dish is made from rice flakes that are soaked in water and then cooked in a pan with salt.

The cooked rice flakes are then mashed and flattened until they resemble small pancakes. 

Poha is often served with dal (a type of lentil soup) and chutney, both spicy sauces that add flavor to the dish. Traditionally, poha, unlike some traditional Indian foods, is eaten with your hand, like a taco.

This makes it quick and easy to eat on the go or during hectic days, especially when you’re not sure when you’ll have time to sit down for a meal.

48. Parathas 

Quite different from other traditional Indian foods, Parathas are a delicious bread that is commonly eaten in India.

They are made with whole-wheat flour and stuffed with various toppings, such as potatoes, eggs, onions, or paneer.

They can be eaten at breakfast time, as a quick lunch or dinner, or even as an appetizer before the main course. 

The best part about parathas is that they are inexpensive and easy to make! You can make many different types of parathas by stuffing them with different ingredients. And also topping them off with various sauces like mango chutney or mint chutney.

49. Idli or Idly 

Idli is a traditional Indian food consisting of rice and lentil batter that is fermented and steamed. One of the traditional Indian foods, Idli, is usually served with sambar.

Sambar is a soup made from vegetables such as drumsticks, tomatoes, cumin seeds, and turmeric leaves. Idly is typically served with coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or onion chutney.

Idlies are often eaten at breakfast in Southern India and sometimes at lunchtime in Karnataka. The idly is also popular in Sri Lanka, where they are called iddalige.

50. Dosa or Dosai 

Lastly, on this list of traditional Indian foods is Dosai, also known as Dosa. Dosai is a rice and lentil pancake that is served with various chutneys and sambar. 

The dosai can be rolled up into a cylindrical shape, or in the case of Rava dosa, it is thin like paper. Dosai can be had for breakfast or as part of any meal during the day. This super delicious dish sums up our list of traditional Indian foods!

Conclusion

Food plays an important role in many different cultures. And India has some unique foods you’ll love to try on your next trip there or your next dinner at home.

There are varieties of traditional Indian foods that range from traditional staples like curry and samosas to fresh snacks like pakoras.

Even the most curious eaters will be happy to discover these traditional Indian foods aren’t just chicken tikka masala!

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indian foods

33 Mouthwatering Traditional Indian Foods Worth Trying

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Traditional Indian foods are one of the most popular on the planet. These foods have migrated to almost every country in the world.

Indian foods contain an explosion of various flavors and spices, making them one of the most enjoyed foods on the earth.

Moreover, every region in India has its unique dish. Some of these dishes could be piquant, while others are colorful and enticing.

These various dishes have made Indian the home of a lot of dishes. This article will discuss some of these traditional Indian foods.

1. Chicken Makhani

Chicken Makhani means buttered Chicken. A tender chicken is cooked in a spiced tomato sauce to make this dish. A tandoor is used for cooking this meal.

However, the Chicken could be grilled, pan-fried, or roasted. Firstly, fresh tomato, cardamon, and garlic are made into a bright red pulp in a pan.

Then the pulp is pureed after it is cold. After which, butter, khoa (dried whole milk), and various spices are added.

Additionally, Chicken makhani is the main dish.

2. Samosas

Samosas are pretty popular in various parts of the planet. However, samosas originated from India. It is one of the traditional Indian foods. Samosas is a deep-fried potato or veggie dumpling.

Moreover, samosas serve as a side dish or snack. Samosas is flour filled with spiced potatoes, peas, lentils, onions, and peas. Then, it is either baked or fried. Sometimes, ground lamb, chicken, or beef are added.

3. Aloo Gobi

Aloo gobi is potato and cauliflower. This dish is purely vegetarian traditional Indian food.

Aloo gobi is simply potatoes, cauliflower, cumin, turmeric, coriander stalks, peas, garlic, ginger, onions, and tomatoes, thrown together.

Then, they are roasted in an oven. Sometimes, kalonji and curry leaves are added. Aloo gobi is another one of the most famous traditional Indian foods ordered.

4. Matar Paneer

Matar paneer is another traditional vegetarian Indian food. The northern part of India developed this meal. Matar paneer is tomato sauce containing peas, farmer’s cheese, and garam masala.

However, this dish is best enjoyed when paired with cream or bread and sided alongside rice, roti, naan, paratha, or poori.

5. Paratha

Paratha is a traditional Indian food. This is a flatbread similar to naan. Besides, paratha is the combination of the words “parat” and “atta” which means “layers of cooked dough.” Atta (wholemeal wheat flour), ghee (clarified butter), maida (white flour), and various stuffings are used to prepare this flatbread.

6. Rogan Josh

Rogan josh is a dish unique to Kashmiri, a region in northern India. Besides, rogan josh is part of Kashmiri multi-course meal called Waxman.

Rogan josh is braised lamb chunks cooked with gravy.

The gravy used to cook the lamb contains yogurt, aromatic spices, browned onions, ginger, and garlic.

Additionally, this dish’s signature brilliant red color is gotten from the liberal amount of dried Kashmiri chilies added.

However, these chilies are de-seeded before use to make the dish less hot. Furthermore, the spiciness of this dish is mostly gotten from its fragrance rather than the heat.

7. Naan

Naan is a leavened, oven-baked flatbread. it is eaten with every traditional Indian food; it acts as a spoon used to scoop up sauce or dipped into chutneys.

This dish comes in different variations but is always chewy and crispy, made with yeast, flour, yogurt, ghee (clarified butter), sugar, and water.

There is a butter and garlic naan, a chili naan, and also plain naan.

8. Tandoori Chicken

Tandoori Chicken is another traditional Indian food that originated from northern India. This dish is simply a roasted chicken made with yogurt and spices.

Like Chicken makhani, this dish is made with a tandoor.

The Chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices containing either cayenne pepper, red chili powder, or Kashmiri red chili powder, then roasted using a tandoor.

The chili is added to give the Chicken a fiery red hue. This dish is best enjoyed with basmati rice and naan.

9. Chana Aloo curry

Chana aloo curry is a traditional Indian food. This dish is chickpeas, ginger, onions, garlic, marinated potatoes, tomatoes, and curry cooked together.

Sometimes, chili or cayenne pepper is added to it. Fresh jalapenos could also be added to give the dish a unique twist.

10. Chutney

Chutney is a traditional Indian food that is a fruit sauce. It is a fruit sauce that is also vegetarian. Besides, this sauce is best enjoyed when paired with samosas.

This dish was created over 2,000 years in India, with fruits, herbs, and spices.

Brown sugar, red wine vinegar, turmeric, mango, and sometimes onions are used in making chutney. Furthermore, chutney could be paired with any traditional Indian food.

11. Shu’Bah

Shu’Bah is also called Shorba. It is a lightly spiced tomato soup. Shu’Bah is another traditional vegetarian Indian food.

Simmering butter, spices (such as ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, and cardamom), onions, and ghee (clarified butter) are cooked together.

The spices give the dish its classic Indian flavor.

Additionally, this dish could be garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or roasted garlic.

12. Masala dosa

Masala dosa is a traditional Indian food that originates from Karnataka, southern India. Rice and lentils are soaked together in water for five to six hours to make this dish.

The batter gotten from the soaked rice and lentils is then cooked on a skillet. Masala dosa contains filling, which is often potato and onion curry dipped in chutney.

13. Kangshoi

Kangshoi is a traditional Indian food that originates from Manipur.

Water, seasonal vegetables, dried or fresh fish pieces, and coarsely chopped onions or spring onions are used to make this soupy stew.

14. Biryani

Biryani is the most famous traditional Indian food. A survey revealed that in 2019, biryani was the most ordered dish in Indian.

The Mughals introduced this dish.

However, there are various ways of cooking this dish. One of the most popular styles of cooking this dish is the Hyderabadi biryani.

Rice, meat (chicken or lamb), onions, spices, and yogurt are used to make this biryani style.

15. Makki ki roti and Sarson ka saag

This is a traditional Indian food that originated from the Punjab region. This dish is simply bread baked with cornflour eaten with mustard leaf.

Though this dish might not look enticing, its flavors are rich and satisfying. Additionally, it is best enjoyed with a glass of lassi.

16. Malai prawn

Malai prawn is a traditional Indian food eaten often with jerra rice. It is also known as shrimp curry.

Shrimps are cooked in creamy coconut milk with other whole spices to create malai prawns.

In addition, to give the dish a more shellfish character, use the head of the shrimp. Depending on preference, the head of the shrimps could first be peeled off.

17. Jerra rice

Jeera rice is a traditional Indian food popular in northern Indian. This dish is the main course. Rice, coriander leaves, onions, vegetable oil, and cumin seeds are used to prepare this dish.

Additionally, cumin seeds are called “Zeera” in Hindi, are pronounced as “jerra,” which is how this dish got its name.

18. Rajma Dal

Rajma dal is another traditional vegetarian Indian food. Moreover, this dish is popular in the north part of India. Kidney beans are cooked in a masala paste containing chilies, tomatoes, garlic, and ginger.

However, the taste of the dish could be adjusted by the type and number of chilies used. This dish could be served with white rice or naan.

19. Khatta Meetha Karela

This dish is a traditional Indian food. It is a sweet and sour bitter gourd.

Turmeric, tamarind, cumin, chilies, coriander, ginger, and an unrefined sugar called jaggery are used in the preparation of this dish.

This dish is served with naan, paratha, or other Indian flatbread.

20. Yellow split pea dhal

This traditional Indian food is prepared using split peas. Split peas are simmered, then a tempered mix of cumin, cayenne, onion, and clove is added to give it a brilliant flavor.

For a milder dish, reduce or eliminate the cayenne used.

21. Papaya Khar

Papaya Khar is a traditional Indian food that originates from Assam. This is quite an off-beat dish prepared with unusual combinations.

Red rice, beaten pulses, raw papaya, and traditional Assamese spices are used to prepare this dish.

Furthermore, this dish is the main course.

22. Little Chowkha

Little chowkha is a traditional Indian food that originates from Bihar. A baked wheat flour dough is stuffed with spices, lemon juice, and roasted gram flour.

Additionally, this dish is served with baked and pulped vegetables.

23. Chawalki Kheer

Chawalki kheer is a traditional Indian food that originated from northern India. This is a rice-based dessert often served on festive occasions.

Basmati rice, milk, and nuts form the base, while saffron, cardamom, and raisins are also added to this dessert.

24. Go an fish-head curry

This dish is a traditional Indian food with roots in Goa. A flatfish, often pomfret, is marinated in onions, chili, garlic, and coconut, then cooked into a delicious soup.

Although this dish tastes sour, it is very tasty and served when hot.

25. Baingan Bharta

Baingan bharta is a traditional Indian food that originates from Punjab. Roughly mashed roasted eggplant is cooked with garlic, ginger, onions, and tomatoes.

This dish is eaten with naan or other Indian bread.

26. Smoked pork

Smoked pork might look like a widespread food that is gotten everywhere in the world. However, the northeast region of India has a unique way of smoking its pork.

Thus, making it a traditional Indian food.

Bamboo and raja Mirchi, one of the hottest chilies globally, is used to prepare pork. This meal is a traditional food in Nagaland, India, and is often enjoyed with rice.

27. Beef roast and parotta

The Kerala people in India inspired this traditional Indian food. The Kerala people are expert judges of beef.

It is simply beef roast eaten with parotta.

A Kerala made bread. This dish serves as a main course and is a must-try for every meat eater.

28. Vada pav

Vada pav is a traditional Indian food sold mostly on the street of Maharashtra. It is a vegetarian snack. It is cheap and straightforward.

Potato patty, chili, and other spices are sandwiched in a bread roll called a pav to create a vada pav.

29. Dhokla

Dhokla is also a traditional vegetarian Indian food that is often eaten as a snack. This dish originated from Gujarat. Fermented rice batter is mixed with chickpeas.

Then steam is used to prepare this snack. Additionally, it is garnished with coriander leaves and mustard seeds.

30. Papdi Chaat

Papdi chaat is a traditional Indian food that is popular in northern India. Street food vendors often sell this food as snacks.

The papdi dough is made, formed into thin circles then deep-fried. Potatoes, chickpeas are used to top the deep-fried wafers, then a tangy, sweet, and spicy sauce is drizzled on it.

31. Kaju Barfi

Kaju barfi is a traditional Indian sweet. Milk is boiled down and condensed to create this fudge-like sweet.

Furthermore, this sweet is topped with silver leaf, which is also edible.

32. Lassi

Lassi is a traditional Indian yogurt-based drink. Water, spices, yogurt, salt, and sometimes mango or cardamom are used to make this drink.

33. Masala Chai

Masala chai is another traditional Indian beverage that is becoming popular in the world, like coffee.

Black tea leaves with a mixture of aromatic spices and herbs (black peppercorn, green cardamom pods, ground cloves, ground ginger, and cinnamon sticks) are traditionally used to make masala chai.

However, nowadays, masala chai is sold in a teabag form with a variety of recipes.

When you visit India or an Indian restaurant, make sure you try one or more of these traditional Indian foods.

You are sure to have a wonderful experience, and your taste buds will be grateful to you if you try these foods.

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