27-Jan-2025

  • Guide

What Are the Most Popular Indian Dishes? A Flavorful Guide

Indian cuisine is loved all over the world for its unique flavors and rich spices. Each region in India has its own special dishes, with recipes passed down through generations. These traditional recipes are carefully preserved, keeping their amazing taste the same. That’s why Indian food is so popular everywhere.

If you’re in Bali, you can find many authentic Indian restaurants to enjoy. Here are 15 popular Indian dishes you should try during your visit!

1. Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is from the northern Indian subcontinent. This dish's texture is creamy with mildly spiced curry. Made with marinated chicken cooked in a rich tomato and cream sauce. The unique flavor comes from the combination of smoky grilled chicken and fragrant spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. That’s why Chicken Tikka Masala is the one of favorites for all.

2. Tandoori Chicken

Tandoori Chicken is the one of popular foods in India. The chicken is made from marinated with yogurt and a mix of bold spices like turmeric, paprika, and cayenne. After all spices is permeated the chicken will cooked in a clay oven called a tandoor. The smoky aroma and bright red hue make it visually striking and full of flavor.

3. Biryani

Biryani is a popular mixed rice dish from India, known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices. It is made with perfectly cooked rice, blended with a variety of spices and meat. Traditionally, biryani is topped with dried fruits, nuts, mutton, or vegetables, adding a delightful texture and taste. 

4. Dal Makhni

Dal Makhni is a creamy lentil dish made with black lentils and kidney beans slow-cooked with butter, cream, and spices. Its rich, earthy flavor comes from the smoky tempering of garlic, ginger, and cumin.

5. Samosa

Samosa is a crispy, deep-fried pastry filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat. Its flaky texture and flavorful filling make it a favorite snack across India.

6. Pani Puri

Pani Puri consists of crispy hollow balls filled with spicy, tangy tamarind water, mashed potatoes, and chickpeas. The burst of flavors in every bite makes it a fun and irresistible street food.

7. Naan

Naan is a soft, fluffy flatbread traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven. Its slightly chewy texture and buttery flavor make it perfect for scooping up curries and gravies.

8. Palak Paneer

Palak Paneer is a creamy spinach curry cooked with cubes of soft paneer (Indian cottage cheese). The mild cheese balances the earthy, spiced spinach base, creating a comforting and healthy dish.

9. Gulab Jamun

Gulab Jamun is a popular dessert made of milk solids, fried until golden, and soaked in rose-flavored sugar syrup. Its soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweetness make it a festive treat.

10. Chana Masala

Chana Masala is a tangy, spicy chickpea curry made with tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices like amchur (dried mango powder) and cumin. Its bold flavors pair well with rice or bread.

11. Rogan Josh

Rogan Josh is a slow-cooked lamb curry originating from Kashmir, flavored with aromatic spices like fennel, cardamom, and dried Kashmiri red chilies. The rich, red gravy is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

12. Curry Murgh

Curry Murgh is a simple yet flavorful chicken curry cooked in a tomato-onion gravy with spices like turmeric, coriander, and cinnamon. Its hearty and mildly spiced nature makes it a comfort food staple.

13. Goan Curry

Goan Curry is a tangy and spicy seafood curry made with coconut milk, tamarind, and a unique blend of coastal spices. Its creamy texture and bold flavors reflect Goa's Portuguese and Indian culinary heritage.

14. Paratha

Paratha is a flaky, layered flatbread cooked with ghee or butter, often stuffed with spiced fillings like potatoes, paneer, or spinach. Its crispy exterior and soft interior make it versatile and satisfying.

15. Murgh Ka Shorba

Murgh Ka Shorba is a light, flavorful chicken soup spiced with coriander, cloves, and ginger. Its aromatic broth and warming spices make it a comforting appetizer or remedy for chilly days.

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