Features of Indian cuisine
India is a truly captivating destination. The diversity of the subcontinent in terms of art, history, cultural beliefs and geography is staggering, while its delectable cuisine has acquired aficionados around the world.
Numerous factors have influenced the development of Indian cuisine, including geographical components. However, an important element is the impact of various belief systems. When Buddhism and Jainism were the predominant religions on the subcontinent, the cuisine was primarily vegetarian. The expansion of Islam and then Christianity in the area also affected the cuisine, which began to incorporate more dishes containing chicken and lamb meat; European traders, meanwhile, brought vegetables such as tomatoes, potatoes and peppers. Pan shapes used to cook Chinese cuisine are becoming more common in India.
Aroma, fragrance and flavor: The miracle of spices
When it comes to Indian cuisine, most diners think of vibrant, fragrant spices. India, literally a spice paradise, has a wide variety of spices – some are mild, some are aromatic, and some are quite spicy, as in ‘hot’. But let us note that not every Indian dish is spicy!
Masala is the most widely used spice mixture in India. The content of an Indian garam masala mixture will vary by region, but it usually contains nutmeg, cumin, coriander, cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon and clove. In addition to masala, spices commonly found in Indian cuisine include turmeric, Kashmiri red chili powder, cumin, coriander, black pepper, cardamom, fenugreek seeds, saffron, bay leaf, dalchini and black mustard seeds.
Delicious Indian flavors
We’ve touched on the evolution of Indian cuisine and its signature spices. Now let’s discuss some of the most beloved snacks and dishes found in this rich culinary tradition!
Samosa
First on the list is the scrumptious Indian snack, the samosa. Typically, this dumpling is made of potato dough, filled, folded and then fried or baked. In general, samosas contain spiced fillings made from potatoes, lentils, peas, onions or mixtures thereof. Samosas are triangle shaped but also come in regional forms such as a half-moon or a cone.
Kulfi
Kulfi, also referred to as traditional Indian ice cream, is a frozen milk dessert with a dense, creamy consistency. Often dotted with hazelnut pieces, kulfi has a sweet milky taste and is infused with cardamom. In addition to being served on special occasions such as weddings, kulfi is popular on hot days.
Biryani
Biryani, one of the most famous dishes from Indian cuisine, is a rice-based main course composed of basmati rice cooked with spices and typically served with chicken, fish or lamb. Hearty and nutritious, this delicious dish is available throughout the country.
Masoor dal
Masoor dal, or Indian-style red lentil soup, is popular in India as well as worldwide. This northern Indian dish has a thick consistency that makes it an ideal accompaniment to rice; sometimes stewed with onions and tomatoes, it is also generously spiced and infinitely adaptable.
Naan
Naan, a flatbread, is an essential component of Indian cuisine. Naan can be accented with garlic, butter or other spices.
Chicken tikka masala
A dish that originated in India and has since spread throughout the world, chicken with tikka masala sauce features tender chicken pieces drenched in a silky, vibrantly colored sauce made with yogurt, butter, tomatoes, cream, garlic and a variety of spice.
Gajar Ka Halwa
Gajar ka halwa, also known as carrot halwa, is another wonderful and flavorful Indian dessert. The halwa is made by slowly cooking grated carrots with cardamom, sugar, water and milk, giving it a light and aromatic flavor.
Jalebi
Jalebi, one of the first foods you’ll see sold on Indian streets, is a sweet dumpling dipped in a special syrup made with rose water. As well as being a street snack, jalebi are also commonly served on special occasions and festivals throughout India.
Kheer
Kheer is a type of rice pudding. Typically served with cashew nuts, kheer contains rice, coconut milk and sugar along with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cardamom and cloves.
Chai masala (Masala tea)
Chai masala – mixed spiced tea – is made with a mixture of black tea spiced with cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, ginger and anise. It is a staple in Indian households, especially during the winter. In India, chai masala is traditionally made with buffalo milk.
If your appetite is whetted, here’s a link for flight tickets to India !
We wish you a pleasant, delicious, and discovery-filled journey!
