What comes to mind when you think about India?
The breathtaking landscapes?
The vibrant culture?
Oh, wait, how could we forget the FOOD!
India’s culinary scene is nothing short of a treasure, offering a blend of flavours, spices, and traditions. From the buttery naans of Punjab to the fiery curries of the South, India is a paradise for food lovers.
Ready to venture on a delicious journey across the country?
Wondering how to get started?
Then, Indian Holiday is there to help you, ensuring your culinary exploration of India is remarkable.
Grab your forks (or hands, as Indian food is best enjoyed that way) and get ready to savour deliciousness on every bite.
Let’s dig in!
North India: A Soulful Experience
Thinking of North India? I’m sure the first thing that comes to mind is food… am I right? Here, the food is as warm as its people. Just the thought of rich curries, buttery bread, and aromatic spices has our taste buds dancing with excitement.
Must-Try Dishes
- Butter Chicken (Delhi/Punjab)
You’ve probably heard of it many times, and trust me, it lives up to the hype! Creamy, tangy, and downright irresistible, butter chicken is hard to beat. Pair it with some naan or rice, and you’ve got a meal that’s nothing short of perfection.
Where to try: Moti Mahal in Delhi, the birthplace of this iconic dish.
- Rogan Josh (Kashmir)
If you’re a fan of lamb, then this one is for you! A slow-cooked lamb curry infused with saffron, fennel, and Kashmiri red chillies. It’s a dish that defines luxury.
Where to try: Authentic Kashmiri restaurants in Srinagar.
- Chole Bhature (Punjab)
Puffy, golden bhature served with spicy chickpea curry is the ultimate comfort food for every Delhiite. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it satisfies any time of the day.
Where to try: Sita Ram Diwan Chand in Delhi or Amritsar’s bustling street food joints.
- Thukpa (Himachal Pradesh)
This hearty noodle soup, inspired by Tibetan flavours, is perfect for keeping you warm in cold mountain evenings.
Where to try: Dharamshala or McLeod Ganj.
Pro Tip: While exploring North Indian delights, don’t forget to sip on a piping hot cup of masala chai. It’s a quintessential part of every meal here.
West India: A Colorful Platter
The western region of India is a feast for the senses, offering bold flavours, vibrant colours, and a perfect blend of coastal and desert cuisine. So, are you ready to indulge in flavours that will stay with you long after your trip? Let’s go!
Must-Try Dishes
- Pav Bhaji (Mumbai, Maharashtra)
A spicy, flavorful veggie mash served with buttery pav (bread). It’s street food at its best!
Where to try: Juhu Beach in Mumbai or the iconic Sardar Pav Bhaji.
- Goan Prawn Curry (Goa)
A tangy, coconut-based curry with prawns perfectly paired with steamed rice and a beachside view.
Where to try: Any traditional shack in South Goa.
- Dal Baati Churma (Rajasthan)
An iconic trio of dishes: crispy baati (bread), lentil curry, and sweet churma, the dish is as satisfying as it sounds.
Where to try: Jaipur or Jodhpur’s local eateries.
- Puran Poli (Maharashtra)
A sweet, stuffed flatbread made with jaggery and lentils. Though often considered festive food, it’s delicious enough to enjoy year-round.
Where to try: Pune or traditional Maharashtrian households.
East India: A Blend of Sweetness & Spices
East Indian cuisine is all about subtle flavours, fresh ingredients, and a touch of nostalgia. The food here feels like home.
Must-Try Dishes
- Rosogolla (West Bengal)
Soft, spongy, and soaked in syrup, this dessert is Bengal’s gift to the world.
Where to try: K.C. Das or Balaram Mullick in Kolkata.
- Macher Jhol (West Bengal)
A light, flavorful fish curry served with steamed rice. It’s simplicity at its best.
Where to try: Kolkata’s traditional Bengali restaurants.
- Pakhala Bhata (Odisha)
Fermented rice served with fried fish, badi chura, and pickles. This dish is the ultimate comfort food for Odias.
Where to try: Bhubaneswar’s local joints.
- Thukpa and Momos (Sikkim)
Tibetan-inspired dishes that have found their way into the hearts of food lovers.
Where to try: Gangtok or Darjeeling.
South India: The Land of Spices
South Indian food is a delightful mix of tangy, spicy, and savoury flavours. From crisp dosas to spicy seafood curries, leaving hungry is impossible.
Must-Try Dishes
- Masala Dosa (Karnataka)
A crispy rice pancake stuffed with spiced potatoes. It’s served with coconut chutney sambar and pure magic.
Where to try: Bangalore’s Mavalli Tiffin Rooms (MTR).
- Hyderabadi Biryani (Telangana)
A fragrant rice dish cooked with tender meat, saffron, and a medley of spices. It’s a royal feast in every bite.
Where to try: Paradise Biryani in Hyderabad.
- Chettinad Chicken (Tamil Nadu)
This dish is a Chettinad speciality, spicy, peppery, and bursting with flavour.
Where to try: Madurai or Chennai’s authentic Chettinad restaurants.
- Puttu and Kadala Curry (Kerala)
Steamed rice cakes paired with a flavorful black chickpea curry. A must-try for breakfast lovers!
Where to try: Alleppey or Kochi.
Central India: A Hidden Gem
Often overlooked, Central India has its culinary charm. Its dishes are rustic, hearty, and full of flavour.
Must-Try Dishes
- Poha (Madhya Pradesh)
Flattened rice tossed with spices, peanuts, and a dash of lemon makes a delicious breakfast dish.
Where to try: Indore’s famous Sarafa Bazaar.
- Dal Bafla (Madhya Pradesh)
Similar to Rajasthan’s dal baati, this dish is a comfort food classic.
Where to try: Bhopal or Indore.
- Bhutte Ka Kees (Madhya Pradesh)
Grated corn cooked with milk, spices, and coconut. It’s unique, creamy, and delicious.
Where to try: Indore’s street food stalls.
Indian Sweets: A Dessert Wonderland
Let’s not forget the desserts because every meal deserves a sweet ending.
Must-Try Desserts
- Gulab Jamun: Deep-fried dumplings soaked in sugar syrup.
- Jalebi: Crispy, sugary spirals, best enjoyed hot.
- Mysore Pak: A ghee-laden sweet from Karnataka that melts in your mouth.
- Payasam: A creamy rice pudding from Kerala or Tamil Nadu.
Culinary Festivals of India
India’s love for food isn’t limited to kitchens—it spills into grand festivals where flavours take center stage.
Top Culinary Festivals
- National Street Food Festival (Delhi)
A celebration of India’s street food culture with vendors from across the country.
When: December-January
- Goa Food and Cultural Festival (Goa)
A showcase of Goa’s rich culinary heritage, including seafood, local wines, and more.
When: April
- International Mango Festival (Delhi)
A paradise for mango lovers, featuring over 500 varieties of India’s favorite fruit.
When: June-July
- Ahare Bangla (Kolkata)
A festival dedicated to Bengali cuisine, from traditional sweets to hearty curries.
When: November
- SulaFest (Nashik, Maharashtra)
While primarily a wine and music festival, SulaFest features gourmet food stalls with global and local cuisine.
When: February
Tips for Culinary Travelers
- Be Adventurous: Don’t hesitate to try local street food. It’s where the magic happens!
- Balance Your Meals: Indian food can be spicy and rich, so balance heavy dishes with lighter options like fresh fruits or yogurt.
- Ask Locals: Locals know the best spots, from hidden gems to iconic eateries.
Experience India’s Culinary Trails with Indian Holiday
Exploring India through its food is an adventure like no other. Every region tells a story through its flavours, ingredients, and cooking techniques.
Ready to venture on a culinary journey?
Trust me, India’s diverse and flavorful cuisine is a feast for the senses!
But we get it! With so many regional delights to explore, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start.
Are you also puzzled by the questions such as;
What’s truly authentic?
Which dish captures the essence of the region?
And most importantly, where can you find it?
That’s where Indian Holidaycomes in!
Our team of experts is dedicated to curating unforgettable culinary trails across India. We’ll guide you through the must-try regional delicacies, ensuring that every bite is an authentic taste of the local culture that leaves you craving more.
Why settle for the usual when you can hassle-free savour the rich flavours of India’s diverse culinary landscape?
Explore our exclusive culinary tours, connect with one of our experts, and get ready for a food adventure. Indian Holiday is here to make your culinary dreams come true with one delicious bite at a time!
Janvi Saini
A wanderer who finds solace in discovering unique locations and penning down stories of different parts of the world.
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