
Indian food is full of flavours, colours and textures. Besides spices and ingredients, the most noticeable thing about Indian food is its traditional way of cooking. Don’t worry! In this guide, we will explore some of the best Indian dishes you need to try. You will experience authentic Indian food in a fun and easy way.
At the Balti Indian Restaurant, we offer traditional Indian dishes. We ensure the authenticity and quality of food. Whether you’re new to Indian food or you want to try more, this guide will provide more fun and memorable.
Why Indian Cuisine is a Must-Try Experience
Indian food is unique and flavourful. It blends spices and fresh ingredients that make it unique. Reasons why you should give it a try:
- Rich in Flavours: Indian food is known for its balanced flavours. Balancing from spicy and tangy to sweet and creamy, there’s something for everyone.
- Variety: Whether you’re vegetarian, non-vegetarian, or even gluten-free, Indian food has a variety of options in food.
- Health Benefits: Some Indian spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander not only bring a great taste to our food but also have health benefits.
Best Indian Dishes to Try for First-Timers
If you’re new to Indian food, we’ve put together a list of dishes that are perfect to start with. These dishes will introduce you to the bold and vibrant flavours of India.
1. Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)
Description: Butter Chicken is one of the most loved and popular dishes. It’s a mildly spiced chicken curry made with tomato sauces, butter and yoghurt. This is a delicious dish for those who are trying it for the first time because it is rich and soothing.
Why You Should Try It: Butter Chicken is perfect if you’re new to Indian food. It’s creamy and flavourful.
2. Chicken Tikka Masala
Description: Chicken tikka masala is boneless chicken mixed in yogurt and spices, then marinated for a few minutes. It is a combination of tangy and mild flavours, cooked in a tomato-based sauce.
Why You Should Try It: This dish is most in demand, you should try it if you are new to Indian food. It is comforting and has great flavour.
3. Samosa
Description: Samosa is a fried pastry with a filling of spiced potatoes, peas, onions, chilly and some Indian masala like garam masala, turmeric, and coriander. It is crunchy when you take a bite and savoury taste on the inside.
Why You Should Try It: Samosas are perfect for people trying Indian food for the first time. It is crunchy with great filling inside and every bite is flavourful.
4. Aloo Gobi (Potato and Cauliflower Curry)
Description: Aloo gobi is a simple dish made with cauliflower and potatoes. It is easy to make yet a flavourful dish. It’s a great option for vegetarian people with great flavour.
Why You Should Try It: If you are craving vegetarian dishes, then Aloo Gobi is a great option. It is healthy and comforting.
5. Tandoori Chicken
Description: Tandoori is the most loved Indian Food, it is marinated for a few minutes in yoghurt and spices, then cooked in a traditional clay tandoor oven which gives it a smoky and flavourful taste.
Why You Should Try It: If you love smoky Flavours, then Tandoori Chicken is a perfect choice. You will enjoy the flavours of tandoor-cooked food.
6. Palak Paneer (Spinach and Paneer Curry)
Description: Palak Paneer is a classic vegetarian dish full of flavours and rich in nutrients. It is made with spinach and paneer.
Why You Should Try It: The creamy texture of spinach and paneer makes the dish more comforting and satisfying. It is a good option for those who prefer a Vegetarian dish.
7. Chole (Chickpea Curry)
Description: Chole is a hearty chickpea curry that’s popular in North India. It’s simmered in a rich, spiced gravy and is often served with rice or naan.
Why You Should Try It: Chole is a great introduction to the bold flavours of Indian vegetarian dishes. It’s tangy, spicy, and full of character.
Read more about our: Balti Indian Restaurant Whitby menu and Balti Indian Restaurant Niagara Falls menu
A Quick Guide to Must-Try Indian Dishes for Beginners
Dish Name | What Makes It Special | Key Ingredients | Perfect Pairing | Fun Fact |
---|---|---|---|---|
Butter Chicken | A creamy, comforting curry that’s perfect for first-timers. | Chicken, tomatoes, butter, | Served with naan or basmati rice. | Created in Delhi in the 1950s. |
Chicken Tikka Masala | A tangy, rich curry with a mild spice level. | Chicken, tomatoes, yogurt, cream, spices | Pairs well with naan and rice. | It’s one of the most popular Indian dishes worldwide |
Samosa | Crunchy, golden pastry filled with spiced potatoes or meat. | Potatoes, peas, spices | Best enjoyed with mint chutney. | Samosas are thought to have originated from the Middle East |
Aloo Gobi | A fragrant, mild curry with a perfect balance of flavours. | Potatoes, cauliflower, turmeric, cumin | Goes wonderfully with roti or rice | This dish is a popular choice for vegetarians |
Tandoori Chicken | Smoky and tender chicken cooked in a traditional tandoor | Chicken, yogurt, garam masala, spices | Perfect with naan or a fresh salad | Tandoori cooking dates back to ancient India |
Palak Paneer | Creamy spinach and soft paneer, a healthy vegetarian options. | Spinach, paneer, garlic, cream | Ideal with roti or naan. | Paneer is a fresh cheese that’s a staple in Indian cooking. |
Chole | A hearty chickpea curry that’s full of flavour | Chickpeas, tomatoes, spices | Often paired with bhature or rice. | This dish is a favourite in Punjabi cuisine |
What Makes Indian Dishes Special?
Indian dishes are unique due to their special spices. Some of the most frequently used spices are:
- Cumin: Provides warmth and depth.
- Turmeric: For its golden colour and earthy taste.
- Coriander: Offers a fresh, citrusy note.
- Garam Masala: A spice blend that gives a warm, aromatic flavour.
Each dish uses a mix of these spices to create a flavour profile that’s distinct and exciting.
Tips for Enjoying Indian Food
- Start Mild: If you’re new to Indian food, try dishes that aren’t too spicy, like Butter Chicken or Palak Paneer.
- Pair with Rice or Naan: Many Indian dishes are best enjoyed with rice or naan (Indian flatbread). It balances out the richness of the curries.
- Explore Regional Dishes: India has a lot of regional dishes. Don’t hesitate to try things like Biryani (from Hyderabad) or Dosas (from South India) as you get more comfortable with Indian food.
Conclusion
Indian cuisine offers a wide variety of flavours, textures, and spices that turn every meal into a sensory experience. If you’re new to Indian food, dishes like Butter Chicken, Chicken Tikka Masala, and Samosas are a great place to start. They introduce you to the rich, vibrant world of Indian food without being overwhelming.
At Balti Indian Restaurant, we pride ourselves on serving authentic Indian taste in every meal of ours. Whether you are new to Indian cuisine or a frequent customer, our menu caters to all. So Come and visit us and start your experience with an incredible journey of the amazing flavours of India!