Indian Food: 85 Actually Authentic & Tasty Dishes

Indian food is like that really cool friend who seemed a bit intimidating at first.

She always looks amazing, is super confident, and you kinda wonder if the two of you would even fit together.

But then when you get to know her, you realize that she’s actually pretty easy to talk to and fun.

That’s really all it is when it comes to Indian.

The ingredients are different, the scents are complex and amazing, the colors are vibrant, and you’re wondering if you’d be compatible with Indian cuisine.

Answer: You are.

With authentic Indian food, you’re getting an incredibly unique mix of cultures and regional specialties that you can’t find anywhere else. It’s been shaped by religious practices, colonization, and years of traditions being passed down. So with this much history and tradition backing it, you know you’re getting something amazing.

And whether it’s a creamy rose drink or bowls filled with rich tangy sauces, I promise you that Indian food is well worth your time.

So add a few of these traditional Indian dishes to your bucket list and get started!

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How to Eat Indian Dishes at Restaurants

Think of authentic Indian foods as something to explore.

You look around the menu, and then you order a drink, a couple starters, a few sides, a main (or two), and a dessert.

Fill that table up like you’re an aspiring Instagram influencer from 2017.

There will be leftovers for later, so no big deal.

Or, if you feel a bit embarrassed with that method, then just take a friend or two and eat family style.

This is an experience and you’re expanding your horizons in new types of foods.

Make the most of it and have fun. 👍

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Indian Cuisine isVery Rich Variety

Indian food is packed with so many incredible spices and ingredients that open up your world to a lot of new flavors.

And whether you’re having a simple Indian dinner recipe, or a delicious comforting Indian drink, there is always something new to explore and try with this bold and colorful cuisine.

Also, India is an incredibly big country, which means you’re going to have a lot of variety depending on the region. So what I’m wanting to get across to you is that you’re never going to run out of dishes to try, and I think that is so amazing!

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Indian Foods are Healthy

There are so many ingredients in authentic Indian dishes that are wonderfully healthy for you.

Their cuisine is packed with so many different ingredients that are going to be really good for your body. 

So for instance, you’re going to be getting turmeric, which has been shown in studies to have an active ingredient called curcumin, and that can help with inflammation.

Or cardamom, which has been shown to potentially help lower blood pressure.

Also, you’re going to be getting lots of plant-based recipes that are packed with incredible veggies. So if you’re wanting to get more healthy and take care of yourself, then Indian cuisines are an amazing place to start.

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Indian Dishes Give You an Amazing Experience

Going to an Indian restaurant for the first time can be an incredible experience. There are so many amazing smells going on all around you!

Freshly made rich curries, hot steaming creamy chai, crispy fritters, and so much more.

And even if it’s not your first time, but you’re going to an authentic Indian restaurant this time, then it can be exciting to know that you’re gonna get traditional dishes (not a fake experience).

But while you’re excited to try these foods, it can get a little stressful trying to figure out what to order.

And that’s why I think these authentic Indian dishes will help you understand exactly what to look for when you see it on the menu.

But of course, if you’d rather have these amazing smells wafting around your own home, then I’ve also included recipes from Indian food bloggers so that you can try authentic Indian recipes at home yourself. It’s up to you!

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Indian Foods You Should Try

I think that you deserve to try the best Indian dishes, feel like an expert cook, and also get leveled up when it comes to cooking skills.

And whether you’re trying one of these Indian food recipes down below, or you’re heading to an authentic Indian restaurant, I hope that I’m able to make your life just a bit better.

Indian Appetizers and Snacks

1. Naan

I feel like naan is an Indian food almost all of us know, or have heard of.

And it makes sense.

It’s easy to like, and there’s nothing intimidating about it.

You can get it…

• Plain
• Garlicky and buttery
• Stuffed with cheese (paneer naan)
• Coated in chili

It’s a hot, fresh, pillowy, and comforting flat bread that you can eat as is, with sauces, with spices, or dipped into a creamy dish.

I’ve personally loved it plain, or with garlic butter, but I think my favorite is when it’s stuffed with cheese.

Also here’s a butter naan recipe you can try if you want to do it at home. It looks so good!

2. Samosas

Samosas are one of those Indian food dishes you don’t want to skip.

They’re fried or baked flaky bread, stuffed with ingredients like lamb, beef, potatoes, spices, and so many other tasty ingredients.

The ones I had above were filled with potatoes and were SUPER tasty!

Also, you can get them with veggies since that’s very common with Indian samosas.

And lastly, it’s suggested that you pair them with tamarind chutney (a sweet and sour sauce), or a mint sauce.

Here’s an samosa recipe from an Indian cook that look very tasty!

3. Dosa

A super thin crepe-like bread made of lentils and rice, it’s one of my personal favorite things to eat when I order Indian.

It doesn’t fill you up a ton, so you still have plenty of space for when the main meal comes.

Also, it’s flaky and tasty to eat with the dipping sauces they provide, or with your meal.

This dosa recipe looks like a good one to try at home!

4. Roti

Roti is this simple, soft, round flatbread, and I love it.

I really liked getting roti from the street vendors, and it has this wonderful texture!

You can have it with daal, curries, and so many other tasty Indian foods. Also, it’s just super simple to make!

Here’s a roti recipe you can try tonight.

5. Chapati

Another amazing Indian flatbread!

It’s just another great recipe to know if you want more bread to pair with your delicious Indian dish. 

They’re thin, griddled, whole wheat (or atta flour) flatbread, and can be served with different curries, chutneys, and other great Indian foods.

It really is a versatile dish, and I think I’ll be trying this recipe for chapati here!

6. Chutney

I love chutneys, they’re such a great condiment to add to Indian recipes. Also, there are so many different types like mango, mint and tamarind.

They always add a really great depth of flavor, and make almost any dish taste way better.

And if you want to make your own, then here’s a good mango chutney recipe to try!

7. Chole Bhature

A very popular Punjabi dish, you get this spiced, delicious chickpea curry, and fluffy fried leavened bread.

There are different consistencies for this curry, so some come semi-dry or just dry. Also, the spiciness can change depending on the region, and even the bread can change depending on the restaurant!

And if you want to make it at home, then here’s a good looking recipe for chole bhature.

8. Medu Vada

Medu Vada, is a very popular South India snacks that has a cool doughnut shape, and a nice crispy golden-brown exterior

The inside is soft and fluffy, and made from urad dal and other aromatic spices.

Check out this Medu Vada recipe and see what you think!

9. Paratha

Another amazing flatbread that pairs perfectly with different Indian foods!

The paratha I had above was called lachha paratha and it was super soft and a bit flaky because of the multiple layers.

Also, in general for paratha, here’s what you’re looking at: soft flaky dough, delicious flavors, and fillings like potatoes or paneer (or just butter).

Being associated with Punjabi and North Indian cooking, they’re great for breakfast and pairing with chutneys, curries, and meat and egg recipes.

But of course, you can have them at any point of the day.

10. Sambar

A delicious looking South Indian soup with a tamarind-based broth, lentils, and veggies.

And when I read tamarind, I was instantly curious! I love tamarind drinks in Mexico, so I thought it was really cool that they were used in Indian food as well.

There are different variations of the dish. So in some regions, you’re going to see sambar made with toor dal (split pigeon peas) and veggies. And in other regions, it will be moong dal and veggies. But with whatever recipe you have, I’m sure it’s going to be very good!

Here’s a sambar recipe you can try yourself!

11. Pakora

Pakora are these tasty looking fritters that have different variations of veggies like onions, potatoes, or eggplant.

This Indian food is dipped in a spiced batter, made with gram and rice flour. And the mix of fresh and dried spices like chili, fenugreek, and coriander honestly make this snack sound so good!

And once the veggies are coated in the seasoned batter, they’re fried until golden.

Here’s the recipe for pakora if you want to fry some up!

12. Paneer Pakora

Coming from North India, this dish is cheese (paneer) that’s been deep fried in a delicious batter.

I don’t know how you would go wrong with this; it just sounds so tasty! It sounds like really good comfort food.

Also, being eaten during the monsoon season, I think making a hot batch of this on a cold rainy day sounds very nice!

So if you want to make some yourself, then here’s a paneer pakora recipe you can follow!

13. Panipuri

These deep-fried, hollow dough balls, come stuffed with tasty fillings like potato, onion, or chickpea.

Originally known as “gol gappa,” this snack started with a tiny, crispy wheat shell filled with spiced mashed potatoes, made with tamarind or mint-flavored water. But it’s definitely changed!

Now, you can try different fillings and flavored waters, that give you different experiences.

Also, if you want to make it at home, then here’s a good Panipuri recipe to try yourself!

14. Chicken 65

Chicken 65 is deep fried appetizer coming from South India.

Originally being made in the Hotel Buhari, in Chennai, you’re going to get marinated pieces of chicken that have been sitting in yogurt, egg, curry leaves, and other tasty spices and ingredients.

Here’s a good recipe for chicken 65 if you’re want to try it as well!

15. Momos

Momos are steamed dumplings which can be seen in different countries like Eastern India, China, and Nepal.

They’re a tasty street food, made with either minced meat or tofu, and mixed with veggies and plenty of great spices.

Here’s a recipe for Indian momos if you want to try it yourself.

16. Bhel Puri

Puffed rice and crispy sev (fried noodles), mixed with a nice combination of fresh veggies, and then all tossed together in a delicious chutney.

I need this Indian food.

This beach snack is also very popular in Mumbai, and it has some great variations.

So for instance, you can get bhel puri with tomatoes, chilies, and boiled potatoes if you’re in the mood for some northern flavors.

17. Kachori

Kachori is an Indian dish that looks like a really good roadside snack, and you’ll see different variations in certain parts of India.

It has a deep fried crispy and flaky dough, wrapped around a spiced daal filling.

Also, there’s the sweet version in Jodhpur called, Mawa Kachori, that’s dipped in a sugar syrup. Sounds so good!

Here’s a tasty looking savory recipe for kachori here!

18. Matar Kulcha

A popular North Indian street food, which you can get in cities like Delhi or Punjab, it honestly sounds very good!

You get this nice spiced and tangy curry, which is the “matar” part. And it’s served with “kulcha,” which is a soft traditional Indian leavened flatbread.

Here’s a matar kulcha recipe if you’re curious!

19. Gobi Manchurian

Being an Indo-Chinese dish, it came over with some Chinese migrants who moved primarily to Kolkata, India.

They had to make sure to change up this Cantonese recipe to suit the Indian palate, so now we have Indian Gobi Manchurian, which is spicy and fried.

Oh, and if you want to make it at home, then I think that this Gobi Manchurian recipe looks VERY good!

20. Tandoori Aloo Tikka

Tandoori Aloo Tikka is one of those Indian dishes to try right away!

You’re basically marinating potatoes for a few hours (or overnight) in a yogurt based sauce.

Then, once that process is done, you’re throwing them in the oven, or frying them in a pan to get some nice tandoori flavors.

You can serve it as an appetizer, or in wraps and rolls, which sounds very good.

And if you want to try it yourself, then I think this Tandoori Aloo Tikka recipe is a good one to try.

21. Paneer Puffs

I honestly love puff pastries that have incredible fillings, so I’m kind of excited to try paneer puffs.

Paneer is an Indian cheese, so you’re getting this amazing looking flaky dough with a tasty cheese filling.

Also, if you go to India, it’s a common snack you’ll find in Indian bakeries.

And if you want the Indian bakery style, then here’s a great looking paneer puff recipe.

22. Curry Puff

I love curry puffs!

They’re so savory, flaky, and soft, and they’re packed with so much flavor!

You can have them as a tea-time snack, for lunch, or order it as an appetizer.

You’re also going to see the filling be a mix of paneer (Indian cheese), veggies, and a nice Indian spice mixture. But you can also get ones with meat as well.

Here’s a recipe for curry puffs that looks pretty good, if you want to make it yourself.

23. Dahi Papdi Chaat

Being a popular street food from Delhi, you’ll also be able to find it under the name of Aloo papdi Chaat, or Sev Papdi Chaat, when you visit India.

You get this nice bowl that’s filled with crunchy puris, and then topped with ingredients like black chickpeas and potatoes. And then you finish it off with chutneys and yogurt.

Here’s the recipe for dahi papdi chaat if you want to try it in your own kitchen!

24. Gobi Pakora

These deep-fried fritters are the kind of comfort food that’s eaten in India during the monsoon season.

But they’re basically these marinated cauliflower florets, dipped in a spiced batter (yum), and then deep fried until golden brown.

So if it’s a rainy day for you, then here’s a Gobi Pakora Gobi recipe that you can try yourself!

25. Dahi Vada (Dahi Bhalla Chaat)

“Dahi” means yogurt, and “Vada,” just means deep fried fritters (or dumplings), and that’s exactly what you’re getting.

You’re going to be having some tasty fried lentil dumpling fritters, that are sitting in a tasty sounding creamy whipped yogurt.

And if you want to make this North India dish at home, then here’s a good looking dahi vada recipe.

Indian Mains

26. Chicken Makhani (Or Butter Chicken)

It’s a classic, and the idea of not mentioning this one seems a bit strange. 🤷‍♀️

Chicken Makhani is a chicken dish where you cook the meat in a tomato based sauce.

And traditionally, it’s cooked in a tandoor, which is a clay or metal oven with a cylinder-like shape.

Here’s what a tandoor looks like. Cool right?

And with ingredients like whole milk, butter, cardamom, and garlic, you get this tangy, creamy, and savory dish that’s basically the perfect comfort food.

Lastly, if you want to make this creamy dish yourself, then here’s a tasty looking recipe for chicken makhani.

27. Biryani

I love rice dishes, and biryani is one of them!

I mean there’s just something about taking a big bite of warm super flavorful and fragrant savory rice.

Here are the main ingredients for this dish:

• Lamb, goat, egg, or chicken – If you’ve never had goat before, in my experience, it tastes like lamb. Very delicious!
• Spices – You’ll get spices like saffron, cardamom, biryani masala, and nutmeg.
• Fruits and Veggies – Onion and lemon.
• Yogurt – The meat is marinated in yogurt and spices, before being added to the rice.

And if you want to make this at home, then here’s a biryani recipe I found that looks great!

28. Tandoori Chicken

Cooked at a high temperature in a tandoor oven, tandoori chicken has this sort of tangy, savory, almost barbecued flavor.

Side Note: If you want to make it at home, there are other methods too!

Originally from Punjab, it’s marinated in yogurt and colorful spices, and you end up getting one of the most amazingly colorful and tasty Indian foods.

This is the kind of recipe you can also make at home if you want to impress friends and show them that yes, you are a better cook than them. 😌

I’m joking… kind of.

But really, if you do want to make this for friends or just yourself, then here’s a recipe for Tandoori chicken. 🙂

29. Aloo Gobi

With the words “aloo” meaning potato, and “gobi” translating out as cauliflower, you’re getting a tasty dry curry dish with potatoes and cauliflower.

It seems simple enough, and I’d love to try the traditional recipe, since a lot of restaurants apparently make this dish semi-dry with a gravy.

Or, if you just want to try it at home, then here’s a good looking aloo gobi recipe to check out!

30. Rogan Josh

Coming from the Kashmiri cuisine, rogan josh is an Indian dish that’s really good comfort food.

You’re getting this nice slow cooked dish with lamb (yum), yogurt, and of course, tasty herbs and spices.

When you’re in India (or at just the right restaurant), you can try a Kashmiri food spread called a Wazwaan, and rogan josh is something you’ll see among all the other dishes.

I can honestly attest that this Indian recipe is amazing, so check out this rogan josh recipe here if you want to try it too!

31. Vindaloo

Being influenced by the Portuguese dish, carne de vinha d’alhos vindaloo is a marinated and slow cooked meat dish.

The cooks in Goan, India took this Portuguese recipe, and substituted the red wine out for palm vinegar and spices. Of course, there are other variations, but I think it’s pretty cool to know the history!

Here’s a good looking vindaloo recipe if you want to try it yourself!

32. Chicken Tikka Masala

Essentially, you’re getting charred tender chunks of chicken (which were marinated in herbed yogurt and spices 👌), and then simmered in an amazing spicy onion tomato sauce.

It really is a satisfying and tasty dinner to have with some garlic naan.

Also, there are different stories of its origin. However, it’s assumed that it might have been created by someone from India, who was living in the UK.

So go ahead and try it at a restaurant, or at home with a chicken tikka masala recipe like this!

33. Korma

Apparently, there are two different ways to have Korma in India.

In North India, Korma is made with ingredients like nuts, seeds, yogurt, and a brown onion paste. And in South India, you’ll see it made with coconut, seeds, no onion paste, and the yogurt is optional.

With its origins in traditional Mughal cuisine, it’s an amazing dish that has braised meat, and a delicious tomato based sauce.

Also, here’s a good looking Korma recipe to try at home this week!

34. Matar Paneer

Coming from Northern India (Punjabi), there are a LOT of different variations for Matar Paneer.

But normally, you’re going to find that it has ingredients like peas, cashews, tomatoes, spices, and of course, paneer (cheese).

Also, with all the amazing flavors of the garlic, cinnamon, garam masala, and other ingredients, I think this would be great to get at a restaurant. Or if you want to serve it up at home, with a bowl of basmati rice, then here’s a good Matar Paneer recipe!

35. Chana Aloo Curry (Chickpea Potato Curry)

I love chickpea dishes, and this ones look amazing!

So with this traditional Indian food, you’re getting tasty ingredients like potatoes, chickpeas (of course), garlic, tomatoes, cumin, garam masala, and so many other good flavors!

And if you want to make it yourself, then here’s an at home recipe for Chana Aloo Curry.

36. Palak Paneer

A delicious sounding dish from Punjabi, and when you visit India, you’re definitely going to be finding it in restaurants, since it’s more common there than in homes.

And with this Indian food, you’ll see it be made with tomatoes, chilies, garam masala, cardamom, cinnamon, cream, and other tasty ingredients.

So if you’d like to try it yourself, rather than at a restaurant, then here are two version for you. The first one is an Instant Pot Palak Paneer recipe, for more convenient nights (and pictured above). And here’s a link to a more traditional way of cooking Palak Paneer.

37. Chicken Karahi

There are a lot of different versions of Chicken Karahi online, but many of them are the “restaurant” version. But we’re not doing restaurant versions here!

Nope, authentic only.

And with a bit of hunting, I found a recipe done by an Indian food blogger, who’s parents used to make it every Sunday evening.

It’s basically a tasty ginger and tomato based masala curry, that’s thick and comes from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region.

And if you’re curious about this Indian food, then here’s the authentic Chicken Karahi recipe here.

38. Dal Makhani

Coming from the north, Dal Makhani is an Indian food that’s a creamy, spicy, lentil, and bean dish. Also, it’s very common! Common enough to be called the “Queen of All Dals.”

Also, it’s made with butter, and you can add cream to make it extra delicious. I think this dish sounds like the perfect thing to eat on a cold fall evening.

And if you think so too, then here’s the recipe for Dal Makhani, if you don’t feel like heading to a restaurant.

39. Dal Tadka

The Indian dish, daal, can refer to any type of lentil, and for this dish, you’re getting some tasty spiced split pigeon pea lentils (also called arhar dal).

The lentils are finished and topped with a delicious sounding tempering of ghee/oil, and spices like cumin, chili, and garlic (that’s the ‘tadka’ part).

There are different variations of this dish, but it really does look like a great recipe to make at home. And if you do want to do that, then here’s a good Dal Tadka recipe here!

40. Vada Pav

A deep fried potato dumpling sandwich… let that sink in for a moment.

It’s a tasty looking street food you can get in Mumbai, and you can put some yummy chutneys on it like spicy dry garlic chutney, and a nice tamarind chutney.

Sounds like a great filling meal to get on the go!

And if you don’t want to wait to go to Mumbai, then here’s a good looking Vada Pav recipe here!

41. Khichdi

Claimed by one Indian food blogger to be the most popular comfort food for Indians, Khichdi is a tasty looking dish that’s made with rice and moong lentils. 

You’re also going to be getting other flavors in this dish like cumin seeds, ginger, ghee and other tasty ingredients.

Oh, and if you want to try this recipe at home, then here’s a great recipe for Khichdi. This Indian food blogger shows you how to make it with multiple methods in the kitchen.

42. Seekh Kebab

Seekh Kebabs are super delicious, ground spicy meat skewers. Also, they come with some tasty flavors like Garam Masala, garlic, ginger, and coriander.

I would highly recommend ordering this dish; the flavors of the meat and spices are incredible!

Seekh Kebabs Recipe

43. Chana Masala

Chana masala is a wonderful comfort food dish. You’re getting tasty chickpeas that are simmered in a really good tomato, garlic, and, onion curry.

I just had it tonight, and it was very good. 👌

Also, a lot of Indian households are going to make this dish differently, so I think it could be fun to experiment and try different versions of this Chana Masala.

Chana masala Recipe

44. Malai Kofta

When you break down the name, Malai comes from Hindi, and means cream. And when you translate Kufta out, it just means “fried balls.” So when you translate it all out, is just meaning fried balls that are dunked in a cream sauce.

A comfort food coming from North India, you’re getting some crispy Paneer dumplings, which are served with a delicious sounding creamy Indian sauce that’s PACKED with flavor. 

Here’s the recipe for Malai Kofta if you want to try it yourself!

45. Saag Paneer

Saag paneer is an Indian food that’s made with ingredients like Swiss chard and fried Indian cheese.

And whether you want to enjoy it with rice or roti, it sounds like a great recipe to have for a nice dinner in, or to try at an Indian restaurant.

Here’s a good looking recipe for saag paneer right here if you’re curious.

46. Pav Bhaji

Coming from Mumbai, this Indian street food has some tasty looking smashed and spiced veggies, and fluffy bread to go with it.

From the way it’s described, it sounds incredibly flavorful, and an Indian food you don’t want to miss. 

Also, here’s a good recipe for Pav Bhaji if you want to make it yourself.

47. Kathi Rolls

If you like paratha, and you want to use it for a wrap, then this Indian food is perfect for you.

Kathi rolls uses the paratha to wrap up chutney sauces, grilled meats, veggies, and even eggs.

It’s a yummy looking dish that was made in the 1930s by a famous restaurant in Kolkata, and is something you’ll commonly see on the streets in Bengali.

And if that sounds good to you, then here’s a recipe for kathi rolls right here!

48. Frankie

Frankie is an Indian dish that comes from Bombay, and is something you can grab on the street.

It’s essentially a wrap that can be eaten as a snack, or at different meals of the day. Also, it has tasty ingredients like spiced mashed potatoes. 👌

It sounds like a fun thing to either grab in India, try at a restaurant, or make at home with a frankie recipe like this!

49. Ki Sabji

I like garbanzo beans, or also called chickpeas. 

Also, it’s a great side to make if you want something healthy but flavorful. 

And being packed with ingredients like cardamom, coriander, and garam masala, you won’t be missing out on taste.

Ki Sabji Recipe

50. Punjabi Kadhi Pakora

This is super creamy delicious comfort food that I think you need to make tonight… or at least this week.

Also, it’s topped with crispy onion fritters, so I really don’t think you need any more explanation for a recipe like this!

Punjabi Kadhi Pakora

51. Peerkangai Kootu

Coming from the south, Peerkangai Kootu is an Indian dish that honestly looks incredible!

It has ridge gourd, coconut, moong dal, and a tasty looking tadka (the fried oil, spices, and herbs that go on top).

Also, the total time for making this is just 37 minutes. So if you want to feel like a cooking genius, and make something tasty, it’s not gonna take you hours to make. 🤷‍♀️

Peerkangai Kootu Recipe

Indian Desserts

52. Kulfi

If your local Indian restaurant serves kulfi, get it.

I remember the first time I had this Indian dessert.

I was in Istanbul, eating at one of my favorite Indian restaurants, and the menu had labeled it as Indian ice cream (or something similar).

And that’s exactly what it is!

The cooking process is a bit different than western ice cream though.

It can be made by slowly simmered whole milk, cream, cardamom, and other tasty ingredients. So while the process is longer, I think the results are a lot better!

This kulfi recipe by this Indian cook looks so good! You might want to give it a try for dessert.

53. Gulab Jamun

I’m pretty sure that whenever my husband and I eat at an Indian restaurant, we get this Indian dessert every time. 😂

But it’s so good!

They’re these doughy fluffy balls soaked in a sugary syrup, that’s been flavored with cardamom and rose water. They’re oh so good!

Here’s a gulab jamun recipe. I like how she gives very thorough instructions, since it’s a recipe that can be messed up if not done just right.

54. Gajar Ka Halwa

A traditional North Indian dessert, you’re getting a delicious bowl filled with simmered, fresh, grated carrots, full fat milk, ghee, sugar, cardamom, chopped nuts, and so many other delicious ingredients.

So basically think of carrot cake, but in a bit of a pudding form, and with a lot more spices. 

It’s a very popular dish in India, which means you’re probably going to be finding it everywhere in the country. But here’s a recipe for Gajar Ka Halwa so you can have it at home as well.

55. Almond Halwa

With cardamom and saffron, this Indian dessert kind of feels like a luxurious dessert you’d get at a really nice restaurant.

Also, it looks so sweet and refreshing, I could see myself making this at home!

Almond Halwa Recipe

56. Ras Malai

A very popular East Indian dessert made with saffron, cardamom, nuts, and milk. It looks really good!

Also, this Indian food is a classic, so you might be able to find it at some Indian restaurants. But if you can’t, then here’s a good recipe for Ras Malai here.

57. Pitha

Pitha are delicious looking rice flour dumplings, that can either have a sweet or spicy filling. But since this is the dessert section, we’re going to be sticking with the sweet.

So you’ll be seeing ingredients like jaggery (a type of cane sugar) and coconut.

Now Pitha is a common snack in India, and if you want a nice sweet snack for after dinner, then I think this is a great option for you.

Here’s a Pitha recipe you can check out now!

58. Kheer

I love rice pudding, and this North Indian version of this classic dessert is absolutely amazing.

It’s rich, creamy, and refreshing. You’re getting this refreshingly cold dessert with the delicious flavor of cardamom. Also, the added cashews give this dish a great texture.

And while this Indian dessert is made for festivals and celebrations, you can make this at any time you want. It also sounds like a great breakfast!

Here’s a great looking recipe for Kheer right here!

59. Falooda

Falooda is a dessert drink that has multiple layers. So you’re getting rose syrup, sweetened milk, ice cream, vermicelli, jelly, and then topping it off with nuts and rose petals (optional).

It’s a drink you can find in many different countries, such as India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, and it honestly looks delicious! 

Being a tasty looking frozen drink, I can’t wait to try it myself. In fact, this falooda recipe right here looks very good!

60. Barfi

If you like fudge, then here’s an Indian version of this tasty dessert.

It’s a sweet that can be made for festivals (or just because), and has yummy yet simple ingredients like milk, sugar, ghee, and pistachios.

And whether you’re making this Indian dessert at home with a barfi recipe like this, or enjoying it at a festival (like Holi, Rakhi, or Diwali), I think it’s going to be very tasty. 

61. Kaju Katli

Another tasty looking Indian fudge recipe, but this one is made made with cashews.

It’s been described as melting in your mouth, and I’m all for it. 🙌

You’re going to be seeing this dessert sold as a traditional North Indian sweet, and being made with delicious ingredients like cardamom powder, saffron, or rose water. Sounds amazing!

And if you wanna try this Indian food, then here’s a good Kaju Katali recipe here.

62. Mysore Pak

Mysore Pak is a sweet Indian dessert you’re going to traditionally find in South India.

Believing to have originated in the Royal kitchen, it’s a delicious looking dessert that’s made with gram flour, ghee, sugar, and other simple ingredients.

The texture is apparently very good because of the oils, and you’re going to find it in a lot of South Indian sweets shops. 

Also, being such a simple dessert, you might want to try this Mysore Pak here!

63. Malpua

Malpua is an Indian style pancake that has crispy edges, and a soft tasty center.

They’re soaked in sugar syrup, and can be made with jaggery (or sugar), and cardamom. But there are plenty of other great ingredients that can be added into this Indian dessert, so you have the option of trying different flavors as well!

Coming from north, you’ll find this dessert being made during different Indian festivals. Or you can make it at home with this Malpua recipe here.

64. Jalebi

You’re going to be finding this very popular Indian dessert being sold at street stalls and sweets shops.

They’re crispy and juicy, and they look like they’re very tasty!

And if you want to try this deep-fried golden dessert, then here’s a good recipe for Jalebi here!

65. Phirni

Phirni is a slow-cooked sweet pudding, that’s made with ingredients like saffron or cardamom, milk, rice, and nuts.

It’s something served during special occasions in North India, and it looks like a very refreshing, and creamy dessert to have.

And if you want to try this Indian pudding yourself, then here’s a good looking recipe for Phirni.

66. Kalakand

It’s a Indian milk cake, and that honestly sounds so delicious!

Spiced and flavored with ingredients like cardamom, sweetened condensed milk, saffron, and rosewater, you’re getting a very rich and creamy cake that sounds like the perfect dessert.

Also, if you want to try this Rajasthan recipe now, or you can’t find it at Indian restaurants, then here’s a nice recipe for kalakand here! 

67. Khaja

If you’re craving layered flaky goodness, then this fritter that’s been fried in ghee, and soaked in sugar syrup, is probably going to hit the spot.

Coming from Odisha, you’ll find it being commonly made and eaten at festivals.

Also, being similar to baklava, it’s made with thicker pastry sheets, and is a lot harder. Crunch lovers unite!

Khaja Recipe

68. Peda

A sweet that has a fudge-like texture, you’ll find it being made in different ways.

So for instance, you might find it being made with milk powder, sugar, and ghee. Or you might see condensed milk as well.

It look like the perfect soft and delicious sweet to have after a big meal, and if you want to make it, then here’s a Peda recipe here!

69. Ghevar

A Indian sweet cake with a tasty looking texture, it’s dipped in sugar syrup, and a tasty sounding sweet thick milk sauce.

Having roots in Rajasthan, India you’ll also find it in other places such as Haryana and Delhi, but if you just want to make it at home, then here’s a Ghevar recipe here!

70. Soan Papdi

The texture for this dessert looks amazing. It’s flaky, airy, and it’s described as being melting in your mouth. 👌

Traditionally you’re using chickpea or gram flour, ghee, saffron, and/or cardamom powder, and of course sugar.

And if you want to try this North Indian dessert, then here’s a recipe for Soan Papdi here.

Indian Drinks

71. Lassi

Lassi’s are a classic. They’re this refreshingly cold, perfectly creamy yogurt drink that originated in Northern India.

I’ve had so many different types of lassis, and they’re all very good!

And here are some lassi flavors to look out for:

• Mango
• Lychee
• Rose
• Saffron
• Cardamom
• Pineapple ginger
• Sweet but plain

They really do pair well with Indian dishes, and the ones I had in the photo above were perfect!

Oh, and if you want to make a lassi yourself, then I’d check out Cook with Manal, she makes a few different flavors of lassi.

72. Masala Chai

I love ordering masala chai with the rest of my Indian food!

Masala chai is one of the most comforting rich and creamy drinks, and it makes for a perfect pre-dinner, or after dinner, drink.

Basically, you’re steeping black tea, cardamom, cinnamon sticks, and other delicious spices, in milk to make this creamy Indian drink.

Here’s a recipe for masala chai if you want to do it yourself.

73. Masala Chaas

An Indian summer drink, Masala Chaas is made with yogurt, water, and spices like ginger, chili, cilantro, and chat masala.

So you’re getting a very nice savory and refreshing drink! 

It’s described as an Indian buttermilk, and is especially popular in southern India.

Here’s a recipe for Masala Chaas if you’re curious to try it out!

74. Aam Panna

This one looks like an amazing summer drink!

You’re getting a cooling beverage from Northern and Western India, that’s drunk when it’s very hot out!

It’s made with unripe green mangos, and Indian spices like cardamom, black salt, and sugar.

And if this sounds like fun to try, then here’s an Aam Panna Recipe here!

75. Nimbu Pani

I love lemonade, so I’m excited to try this Indian version of the classic drink.

And unlike the western version, you’re going to get ingredients like chat masala, and black salt. So it’s still a sweet drink, but with different ingredients.

I can’t wait to try this Indian version of lemonade; it looks really good. Also, here’s a recipe for Nimbu Pani, if you want to give it a try yourself.

76. Masala Haldi Doodh

This drink looks so pretty, but also very delicious!

And what makes this drink golden is the turmeric. So that means you’re getting a creamy, spiced, sweet drink, that also have some amazing health benefits.

If this sounds good to you, then here’s a nice looking recipe for Masala Haldi Doodh here.

77. Kaapi

Also called, Indian filter coffee, it’s a coffee that’s served in a metal tumblr, which sits in a deep saucer that helps it cool down.

It’s sweet, strong, and has a nice bubbly froth on top. Also, if you want to make it yourself, you’ll need to use a traditional Indian filter. 

Here’s a recipe for Kaapi, and instructions for making it yourself, if you can’t find it at Indian restaurants.

78. Paneer Soda

A typical South Indian drink, you’re getting refreshing flavors of rosewater, soda, and sugary goodness.

You’ll see it at Indian weddings, but it can also be a simple and delicious summer drink.

And if you want to try to home, like how I do, then here’s a good recipe for Paneer Soda 

79. Goli Soda

Also known as Nimbu Masala Soda, you’re getting a delicious carbonated lemon, flavored drink, and it’s very popular in India.

So whether you’re traveling through the hot summer streets of New Delhi, and want to grab some from the street vendors, or you want to make it at home, I think it’s worth giving it a try. It sounds really good!

Goli Soda Recipe

80. Thandai

Traditionally from the northern states of India, Thandai is normally served during festivals like Holi.

Also, you’re getting this nice, refreshing, cooling, and creamy drink, with flavors of cardamom, cinnamon, saffron, and rosewater. 

And if this creamy drink sounds really good to you, then here’s a Thandai recipe for you to try!

81. Darjeeling

Coming from the Darjeeling district in India, Darjeeling tea is often called the “Champagne of teas.” 

Just make sure that the tea is actually Darjeeling tea, a mainly black tea that also has properties of oolong. I say that since a lot of teas from that area are labeled as “Darjeeling,” even if they’re green or white tea. 

Fun Facts:

• The leaves originally come from China, so it’s kind of crazy to think that something that’s so well known to India, came from another region!
• Darjeeling was started by an Englishman named, Archibald Campbell, who was experimenting with different teas in a private garden in the Darjeeling area.

82. Kahwa

You’re going to make this drink by boiling green tea leaves with ingredients like cinnamon, saffron, and cardamom.

Oh, also, you’ll sometimes see it made with Kashmiri roses, and it’ll be served with sugar, honey, and crushed nuts (like walnuts or almonds).

Kahwa Recipe

83. Adrak Chai

A different type of chai drink to try!

If you like ginger, then this is going to be a great drink for you.

It’s a creamy milky hot tea made with ginger roots and tea leaves. 

So not only are you going to be getting something that’s comforting, and can go great with dessert, but you’re also going to be getting some nice health benefits in there too. 

Also, I personally think it sounds like a great recipe to try during the holidays, but maybe that’s just me. 🤷‍♀️

And if you’d like to try it out yourself, then here’s a recipe for adrak chai here.

84. Assam Tea

Named after and indigenous to the region of Assam, India, you’re getting a nice breakfast tea that you can pair with some milk!

It’s a back tea with nice full-bodied flavors, and would probably go great with some freshly baked cookies (in my opinion!)

Fun Fact: Certain breakfast teas that we know and love, like Irish breakfast tea, are apparently going to have 100% Assam tea. But you’ll also see it being used in boba or masala chai tea.

85. Mohabbat Ka Sharbat

Coming from old Dehli, it has delicious flavors of watermelon and rose syrup.

It originally came from a street shop run by a guy named Nawab Qureshi.

It quickly became a very popular drink, and now you’ll see a lot of street vendors selling it themselves.

But here’s a Mohabbat Ka Sharbat recipe if you just want to make it at home!

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The Staple Ingredients and Spices of India

Indian ingredients are incredibly diverse.

This huge country has so many climates and regions that have been affected by trade, and hundreds of years of tradition. And that means the foods are going to change quite a bit.

But here’s a more generalized understanding of what staple ingredients are grown or eaten where:

• North India mainly grows wheat.
• Western India is going to grow a lot more coarse grains such as millets and sorghum.
• The south and east of India grow rice.

Other Staple Ingredients in India Include:

• Chickpeas
• Lentils
• Beans
• Peas
• Urad (black gram)
• Ghee
• Peanut oil
• Coconut oil
• Mustard oil
• Gingelly oil (sesame oil)

Staple Spices You’ll Find in India:

• Turmeric
• Cardamom
• Black salt
• Cinnamon
• Coriander
• Cumin
• Cloves
• Fennel seeds
• Fenugreek
• Ginger
• Mustard seeds
• Chili peppers
• Nutmeg
• Poppyseed

Also, some spices change by region. So for the north of India, you’ll be seeing spices such as cumin, coriander, cloves, and turmeric. But in the south, you’ll find foods made with mustard seed and fenugreek.

Vegeteables: In India, you’re going to find indigenous veggies like eggplant, different leafy greens (saag), and gourd.

Also, there are vegetables that were brought over by other countries, such as Portugal and England. So for instance, the Portuguese brought over cabbage, potatoes, different chilies, corn, and tomatoes. And the British brought over different types of cauliflower, lettuce, and carrots.

Fruit: You’ll see a lot of jackfruit, mangoes (India’s national fruit), papaya, bananas, pomegranate, apples, and peaches.

Dairy: There’s going to milk, yogurt, and ghee used in Indian cooking.

Meat: Indians mainly eat mutton and chicken since many don’t eat beef, and the Muslim population won’t eat pork. But you’ll also find fish such as carp, kingfish, catfish, mackerel, prawns, and squid.

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Typical Indian Meals

Normally, Indian meals are going to depend on things like…

• Region
• Religion
• Income
• Social class.

But here’s a generalized idea of what you’re looking at:

The Main Meals: In India, some people eat breakfast, lunch, an afternoon snack, and dinner. 

Grains Grains, such as rice and wheat, will be used or served with different Indian meals. Also, you’ll also be seeing lentil dishes such as dal.

Sides and Sauces: To accompany these meals, there will be different vegetables, fish and other meats, as well as yogurts, chutneys, pickles, and salads.

Drinks: Certain drinks such as milk, water, lassis, or buttermilk with be served with the food.

After Meals: And lastly, at the end of meals, there will be seasonal fruits, or even mukhwas, which is used as a breath freshener.

How the Meals Are Eaten: The different dishes are all served at once with no courses. And when a dish is eaten by hand, you’ll traditionally see people using their right hand or using some flatbread to grab the food.

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Indian Food FAQ

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Indian food can be an incredible experience, so get adventurous and give it a try.

It might become one of your favorite cuisines!