The Great Indian Food : An Introduction to A Global Audience |Spicey or Not?

Indian food is renowned globally for its diverse flavors, rich spices, and vibrant colors. Dishes like curry, biryani, tikka masala, and naan have become iconic representations of Indian cuisine worldwide. Additionally, the emphasis on vegetarian options, such as dal (lentil curry) and paneer (Indian cottage cheese), has also gained popularity internationally. Indian cuisine's ability to cater to various dietary preferences, along with its bold and complex flavors, has cemented its status as a beloved culinary choice on the global stage.

Why is Indian Food Spicey ?

Indian food is often spicy due to the prominent use of spices in its cooking. Spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and mustard seeds are commonly used in Indian cuisine, and these spices contribute to both the flavor and the heat of the dishes.

Several factors contribute to the spiciness of Indian food:

Climatic influence:

India has a warm climate, and historically, spicy foods have been consumed in hot climates because spices can help induce perspiration, which cools the body.

Preservation:

Spices were traditionally used in Indian cooking to preserve food in the days before refrigeration. Many spices have antimicrobial properties that can help prevent food spoilage.

Cultural preference:

Spicy food is deeply ingrained in Indian culinary culture. Many Indians enjoy the heat and complexity that spices add to their dishes.

Medicinal properties:

Some spices used in Indian cooking, such as turmeric, ginger, and garlic, are believed to have medicinal properties. They are used not only for flavor but also for their potential health benefits.

Regional variations:

Different regions of India have their own unique spice blends and levels of spiciness, influenced by factors such as local ingredients and culinary traditions.

 What's on the Menu?

Lets get a glimpse of few must try (s).

Starters/Appetizers

Tandoori Shrimp

Veg Kebab

Paneer 65

Seekh Kebab

Fish Tikka

Chicekn Tikka

Mutton Ghee Roast

Main Curse

Butter Chicken

Chicken Masala

Mutton Rogan Josh

Prawn Masala

Fish Curry

Mutter -Paneer

Dal Fry

Palak Panner

Mix Veg Curry

Desserts (Sweets)

Kulfi

Gulabjamun

Halwa (Moong Dal,Carrot etc)

Chumchum

RasMalai

Barfi

Kheer (Rice pudding)

Rosgulla

Rabri

& the famous Indian Street Foods :)

Pani Puri/Golgappa/Puchka

Dahi Vada

Vada Pav

Dosa

Samosa

Chaat

Aloo Tikki

Momo

Poha

Dal Vada

Poha

Lassi

Butter Milk

What all Spices in the food?

Indian cuisine is a symphony of flavors, where sweet, spicy, tangy, and savory come together in perfect harmony. Spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cardamom & Ginger play a daily role in our  food .There is more but depends in which region of the country you are at !But largely the said spices you will find in your food across the country :) Interesting ?

Regional Delights

So our food habits differ from one state to another,here is a quick brief !

North India: Indulge in rich, creamy curries like butter chicken and paneer tikka masala, paired with fluffy naan or fragrant basmati rice.

South India:  Try  dishes like masala dosa, idli sambar, and Hyderabadi biryani, bursting with flavors of coconut, tamarind, and curry leaves.

East India: Sample dishes like fish curry, Chicken Masala ,Egg curry where mustard oil and "panch phoron" spice blend create unique and bold flavors.

West India: Dive into the tangy goodness of dishes like vada Pav,Konkan style fish curry ,Puran Poli  and Gujarati dhokla, with flavors enhanced by ingredients like tamarind, kokum, and jaggery.

Indian Street Food Rules your palate  

We love our street food cause there is plethora of mouth watering varities in each & every State you visit.Must try these :

Pani Puri /Gol gappa/Puchka

Samosa - Deep fried pastry wiht a savoury filling.Ah i love this with tea:)

Chaat- there are different types there ,Just ask the vendor to give you their best selling one!You will cry tears of foodie joy:)

Jalebi -My fav ,a sweet dish which is immensely popular in North side of the country !

Kulfi -A traditional Indian ICecream which is way creamier than a icecream due to how it is made.

Chai - A hot beverage with Milk + tea leafs + sugar  .Our daily dose of happines.I like Masal tea though one with ginger !Every nook and corner is filled with stalls selling tea !Try daily :)

Did you know up to 39% of Indian Population is Vegetarian ?

Did you know We are a largely agricultural society ?

The majority of Indians are vegetarian for a few reasons.

One big reason is cultural and religious traditions. Many Indians follow religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, which advocate for vegetarianism as a way to show compassion and respect for all living beings.

Additionally, there's a long history of vegetarianism in Indian culture, with vegetarian dishes being widely available and enjoyed across the country.

Another reason is practicality – in a largely agricultural society, plant-based diets can be more accessible and affordable for many people.

Finally, health considerations also play a role, as vegetarian diets are often seen as being good for overall health and well-being.

In India, if you're a vegetarian Or Vegan , you're in luck! There are tons of delicious dishes without meat that are filling, tasty, and good for you. From dishes like lentil curry and spinach with Indian cheese to potato cauliflower and mashed eggplant, vegetarian food here is anything but dull.

Sweet Endings 

India boasts a deep-rooted tradition of sweets, known as 'mithais,' which hold enduring significance in Indian culture. These treats symbolize joy, festivities, auspicious beginnings, and abundance. In Indian traditions, no festival, ceremony, or special occasion is considered complete without the presence of these delightful sweets.

Must try :

Gulabjamun

Kaju Barfi

Laddu

Gajar/Carrot Halwa

Rabri

Coconut Barfi

Rasmalai

Ummmm...stopping to get one Cocnut Barfi for me ..wink wink 

Dining Etiquette

In Indian culture, dining is a communal affair, where sharing food is a sign of hospitality and togetherness. Embrace the use of your hands to eat, a practice known as "eating with your fingers," and savor the flavors with all your senses.But feel free to use spoons if you are not comfortbale .No Problem at all.We are easy-peays folks.Love our guests relsiing our cuising however you want.

Note: Tipping is not a culture here but usually acceptable.

 Spice Level

Indian cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors, but don't be afraid to ask for milder options if you're sensitive to heat. Most restaurants are happy to adjust the spice level according to your preference.

So no worries always ask for spice level in food you order or requst to adjust !

Hygiene and Safety

While street food is a must-try experience, it's essential to prioritize hygiene and safety. Opt for stalls with high turnover rates, clean cooking surfaces, and freshly cooked food to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.Carry your own water bottle .Do not use tap water here in india thos eare not drinkable we use Water purifiers at home & elsewhere !Initialy you may not have the tomach to try intense indian street foods like deep fried items so avoid start small and easy preparations .But many forgeriners freinds of mine are now addicted to street food here:) uh not my fault.

Enjoyed this tour much ,Aha thought so !

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