5 Traditional Indian Dishes You Must Try

India is best known for its culture and array of wonderfully colourful dishes full of spices. When it comes to the most traditional dishes in the world, in India there is something for everyone be it vegan, vegetarian or non-vegetarian options.

Let us take you on a culinary trip through India and by the end you’ll be frantically searching for somewhere local that makes masala dosa or thali!

You will notice once you travel different parts of India the culture and food changes. Whether you are sunbathing on a beach in Goa and exploring the wonders of sea food full of flavours, exploring Mumbai for its street food or visiting Hyderabad best known for its Hyderabad Biryani. Irrespective of whether you visit the crowded street food market or experience fine dining fit for the Maharaja, there is something for everyone.

Masala Dosa

A very popular south Indian breakfast dish, it is a pancake made of lentils and rice and stuffed with potato, onion mixture with mustard seed and other spices which is then rolled to perfection. The Masala Dosa is usually served with two types of sauces such as sambar and coconut chutney. Enjoy and use your hands.

Thali

Thali simply means a platter, it refers to many veg and non-veg dishes served in a small bowl arranged in a thali - in other words a large round metal plate. The different range of Indian dishes in a thali ranges from as few as six to as many as 20, often accompanied with chapatti, rice, pickle, salad and desert. Different vendors or restaurants will have different Thalis to offer, the idea behind a Thali is to provide a vast number of different mouth-watering flavours: spicy, sweet, salty, bitter and sour, making it a diverse option for all.

Gol Gappa

Gol Gappa is known for its novelty value and is usually a type of street food and available either in restaurants or from vendors on the streets. Gol Gappa are made from plain flour or semolina and fried until golden, the Gol Gappa are then filled with spiced potatoes and/or chickpeas and dipped into a bowl of spiced water, usually cumin, tamarind and mint. Pop the whole Gappa in your mouth and enjoy the different spices.

Butter Chicken

Butter chicken is one of the most popular Indian dishes amongst Indians and the West. Butter chicken can be found most Indian restaurants around the world. Butter chicken is a red creamy gravy which is mildly spice yet extremely flavourful. Nothing beats the satisfaction of having a delightful thick gravy with garlic naan whilst drinking a cold beer or mango lassi on the Goa beaches.

Gulab Jamun

The king of post dinner food can be found across India. It’s made of milk dough deep fried and shaped as small balls until golden brown. The gulab jamun is then dipped in to a rose sugary syrup. Once soft and juicy it’s time to dig in and devour the delicious treat. You can also find gulab jamuns in festivals such as Diwali and celebration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Indian cuisine unique?

Indian cuisine stands out for its rich blend of spices, diverse regional flavours, and vibrant presentation. Each region in India offers its own speciality based on local ingredients and cultural influences.

What are some must-try traditional Indian dishes?

Five of the most popular traditional Indian dishes include Masala Dosa, Thali, Gol Gappa, Butter Chicken, and Gulab Jamun. Together, they represent the variety and depth of flavours found across India.

What is Masala Dosa made of?

Masala Dosa is a South Indian dish made from a rice and lentil batter, cooked into a thin, crispy pancake and filled with a spiced potato and onion mixture. It is typically served with sambar and coconut chutney.

What does Thali mean?

Thali means “platter” and features a selection of small portions of various dishes served together. It can include vegetarian or non-vegetarian options with accompaniments like rice, chapatti, salad, pickle, and dessert.

What is Gol Gappa and how is it eaten?

Gol Gappa, also known as Pani Puri in some regions, is a popular street food made from crispy fried shells filled with spiced potatoes or chickpeas and dipped into flavoured water made with tamarind, cumin, and mint. It is eaten whole in one bite for a burst of tangy and spicy flavours.

Why is Butter Chicken so popular?

Butter Chicken is loved for its creamy, mildly spiced tomato gravy that pairs perfectly with naan or rice. Its rich taste has made it one of the most recognised Indian dishes globally.

What is Gulab Jamun and when is it usually served?

Gulab Jamun is a dessert made from milk solids shaped into small balls, deep-fried, and soaked in rose-flavoured sugar syrup. It is commonly served during festivals, celebrations, and as a post-dinner treat.

Does Indian food vary by region?

Yes, Indian food changes significantly from region to region. Coastal areas like Goa are known for seafood dishes, while cities like Hyderabad are famous for their biryani. Each state adds its own twist through unique ingredients and cooking styles.

Are there options for vegetarians and non-vegetarians in Indian cuisine?

Absolutely. Indian cuisine offers a vast range of dishes for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians, ensuring there are plenty of choices for everyone’s preference.

What is the best way to experience authentic Indian food while travelling?

Travellers can explore street food stalls for local favourites or enjoy traditional dining experiences in restaurants. Whether at a bustling market or a fine-dining setting, Indian cuisine offers something for everyone.