India’s Most Famous Foods

One of the greatest joys of travelling is trying out the country’s local food. The efforts of planning a trip, then boarding a flight, getting a visa, and so on would be futile if you don’t get to experience India’s most famous food. The list is long and varied and a treasure trove of deliciousness.

From red crispy ‘Aloo Tikki’ to rich and creamy butter chicken, the option seems to be never-ending. You’ll surely take the authentic flavours back with you to your home that India and its diversity offer.

It’s no surprise that Indian dishes feature prominently on any food lover’s bucket list. After all, the country is home to a plethora of spices and herbs that are used to create some of the most flavourful dishes in the world. To try the most popular Indian food in India or anywhere in the world, you must give this article a good read.

Tandoori Chicken – India’s Most Famous Food, Globally

This is one of the most cherished Indian dishes that is enjoyed not only by Indians but by people worldwide. The Indian cooking technique for Tandoori Chicken begins with marinating it in a mixture of yoghurt and spices. The dish is then dressed and roasted in a ‘tandoor’ (a clay oven). The result is succulent, and the flavourful chicken pairs perfectly with naan bread. Therefore, if you are a hardcore non-vegetarian and want to begin your Indian food journey, this dish is a must-try.

Chaat

When in India, you possibly cannot escape Chaat, one of the most famous snack and street food in India. Mouth-watering, lip-smacking, and utterly irresistible, Chaat covers an array of snacks served across the country. Potato, spices, curd, tamarind chutney, and sev are just some of the ingredients that come together to create this heavenly dish.

From roadside stalls to upmarket restaurants, Chaat is enjoyed by people from all walks of life. Once you try this India’s Famous Food, you will surely never forget it.

Pani Puri – India’s Most Famous Street Food

Another dish that simply cannot be missed is Pani Puri. The crispy fried balls are filled with a multitude of flavours, including potatoes, spices, tamarind water, and even curd. Pani puri is best enjoyed on a hot summer day, and you can find it being sold at almost every Chaat stall in the country. The burst of all these spices and flavours in your mouth is an experience you will never forget.

Bhelpuri

Bhelpuri is a popular Indian street food that is enjoyed by people of all ages in India. It is made by mixing puffed rice, vegetables, and spices, which are then garnished with lemon juice and tamarind chutney. Whether roadside stalls or upmarket restaurants, this dish is widely available and highly loved. Make sure you take a break in between your trips to beaches and cities to have this delectable dish.

Sambhar Dosa – South India’s Most Famous Food

This traditional South Indian food needs no introduction. A popular breakfast dish, the Sambhar Dosa is made by stuffing a thin and crispy rice crepe with potato filling and served with delicious sambhar (a vegetable stew) on the side. Moreover, the combination of flavours and textures is simply out of this world, and you will definitely want a second piece! You must explore the country’s south and its cuisine as a tourist in India. Undoubtedly, the sambhar dosa is the perfect place to start.

Chole Bature – North India’s Most Famous Dish

A North-Indian speciality, Chole Bature is a dish that is not for the faint-hearted. It consists of fried bread (nature) served with spicy and tangy chickpea curry (chole). The dish is often garnished with onions, green chillies, and coriander. Add a glass of lassi (a yoghurt-based drink) to make it a perfect meal.

You can say that this dish as a whole is a perfect representation of Indian food – it is spicy, tangy, sweet, and savoury all at the same time. Just in case you are visiting the Golden Temple at Amritsar, don’t forget to try it out!

Vada Pav

If you are on the go and feeling hungry while touring India, then Vada Pav is the perfect snack for you. This Mumbai speciality consists of a fried potato patty served inside a soft and fluffy bun. It is often garnished with chilli powder, coriander, and tamarind chutney.

Finally, the spice left on your tongue is simply delicious. Also, this snack is pocket-friendly and serves as an emotion for the Mumbaikars! Try making Mumbai-styled Vada Pav using the authentic recipe and give your taste buds a trip to heaven.

Kulfi – India’s Most Famous Sweet Dish

Residing in the hearts of many, Kulfi is the country’s own version of ice cream. This thick and creamy dessert will leave you craving it even more and is made with condensed milk, almonds, pistachios, and saffron. All you will be thinking about for the whole trip is when you can have your next bite of this India’s famous food.

Samosa

A list of India’s most famous food is incomplete without mentioning Samosas. These deep-fried triangular pastries are stuffed with a variety of fillings, including potatoes, peas, and spices. Clubbing Samosas with a hot cup of tea will make the perfect evening snack. They are sold at almost every tea stall in the country. In fact, you will be hooked to them once you have a taste.

Dhokla – A Gujrati Dish

How can you think of Gujarati cuisine and miss Dhokla? Gujarati’s speciality, Dhokla, is a steamed cake made from chickpea flour and yoghurt. It is often served with chutney or curry. One should not miss this snack or side dish. As a blend of sweet and hot this dish combines all the magical flavours that one can ever imagine.

You may belong to any part of the world, but once in India, these famous food items will make you feel at home. India is a land of spices and culture, and its food reflects that. Although, the country’s vast cuisines make it impossible to try everything in one lifetime. But, the dishes mentioned in this guide are a great place to start. They will give you a taste of some of India’s most famous foods, and there is a reason that these dishes are popular all over the world. So, what are you waiting for?

Start planning your trip and get ready to enjoy some of the best food in the world. You may also check out our foods & beverages page for more exciting articles!