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Best Indian Dishes to Try If You’re New to Indian Food | A Guide to Authentic Flavours

Best Indian Dishes to Try If You're New to Indian Food
Best Indian Dishes to Try If You're New to Indian Food

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 NameWhat Makes It SpecialKey IngredientsPerfect PairingFun Fact
Butter ChickenA 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 MasalaA tangy, rich curry with a mild spice level.Chicken, tomatoes, yogurt, cream, spicesPairs well with naan and rice.It’s one of the most popular Indian dishes worldwide
SamosaCrunchy, golden pastry filled with spiced potatoes or meat.Potatoes, peas, spicesBest enjoyed with mint chutney.Samosas are thought to have originated from the Middle East
Aloo GobiA fragrant, mild curry with a perfect balance of flavours.Potatoes, cauliflower, turmeric, cuminGoes wonderfully with roti or riceThis dish is a popular choice for vegetarians
Tandoori ChickenSmoky and tender chicken cooked in a traditional tandoorChicken, yogurt, garam masala, spicesPerfect with naan or a fresh saladTandoori cooking dates back to ancient India
Palak PaneerCreamy spinach and soft paneer, a healthy vegetarian options.Spinach, paneer, garlic, creamIdeal with roti or naan.Paneer is a fresh cheese that’s a staple in Indian cooking.
CholeA hearty chickpea curry that’s full of flavourChickpeas, tomatoes, spicesOften 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!

4.9
Based on 13 reviews
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Ghanshyam Kafle
02:27 27 Mar 24
We tried their Chili chicken momo and fried rice absolutely delicious Service and atmosphere great too. Conveniently located near the falls and free parking as well.
Andrea Signori
20:44 25 Mar 24
nepalese chicken dumplings to share were lit!really modern service with a robot.authentic asian food, really good and affordable, you need to try!
Lhundup Thugjey
14:02 25 Mar 24
foods are delicious specially butter chicken, chicken bona and palaak panir. You won't regret visiting there
prabin.m_
02:47 23 Mar 24
Restaurant is so nice and cozy and their service is good too and I love their food ❤️❤️Everyone should visit this restaurant. I’m sure you won’t regret.
indira phagami
02:27 23 Mar 24
Yum Yum Yum…Wow I loved butter Chicken & Nan here it’s really juicy and conscientious thickness of butter sauce.And of course try MoMo.
Rukesh Sapkota
02:15 23 Mar 24
I recently went to this place. Butter chicken naan and dumplings were very tasty.
Bishal Dhakal
01:56 23 Mar 24
I recently discovered a restaurant and it has quickly become one of my favorite dining spots. The food is absolutely incredible, bursting with flavors that leave a lasting impression. From the first bite to the last, each dish was a delightful surprise. The chefs truly know how to create culinary magic.
Dhan Phagami
18:00 22 Mar 24
You must try Hakka noodles and butter chicken and Naan. Mouthwatering foods.
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4.5
Based on 1270 reviews
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Nasir Muhmood
19:36 26 Mar 24
Muhammad Faiq
22:44 25 Mar 24
A very aesthetic place to dine in and food is so good
Kainat Fatima
22:00 25 Mar 24
Manasi
23:59 24 Mar 24
Balti offers an inviting ambiance and exceptional service, making it a memorable dining spot. The Tandoori Momos and Chicken Pakora were flavorful starters, while the Vindaloo Curry was a spicy delight. Each dish was beautifully presented, reflecting the chefs' dedication to their craft. The attentive staff added to the enjoyable experience. Overall, Balti is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious Indian cuisine served with flair and warmth.
Peter Hutchison
00:58 14 Mar 24
Some of the best chicken masala I've ever had, aling with the fresh butter naan. Flavourful and tender. Their mango salad is a must try. Lovely, cozy atmosphere with pleasant music and classy decor. The staff are attentive without crowding you, and the prices can't be beat. Come for their $16 lunch buffet
Shaunak Bhika
02:43 20 Feb 24
As other comments say hidden gem, I totally agree with this! Service was perfect! Food was spectacular. To add to this, complimentary manchow veggie soup was offered. Pricing is beyond reasonable. Ultimate bang for the buck when it comes to Indian and Hakka food in Durham region!
Rahul Parikh
19:29 12 Nov 23
What an experience! The staff Suraj was a great host and this led to an amazing experience!Tried the hakka noodles, malai kofta, paneer starters . The food was amazing and I would say the panner starter is one reason for me to visit again!Thanks and wishing you the best 🙏
Sarthak Tripathi
02:13 31 Oct 23
Balti Indian restaurant in Whitby is a hidden gem! The food is undeniably good, and it's become a go-to spot for those craving delicious Indian cuisine. From the aromatic curries to the perfectly spiced tandoori dishes, the flavors here are spot on.The attentive staff and cozy atmosphere make dining at Balti a truly enjoyable experience. Whether you're a fan of classic favorites or eager to explore the depths of Indian cuisine, this restaurant won't disappoint. If you're in Whitby and in need of some fantastic Indian flavors, be sure to give Balti a try. Good food is an understatement – it's a culinary adventure waiting to be savored!
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