The diversity of the Indian sub-continent is unlike any other country. Home to 1.4 billion people and 29 states, here one can experience varied cultures and traditions, each unique in their own way. The culinary scene of the country is as diverse as its topography, cultures and traditions. Travel from North to South and you will experience culinary diversity in the cooking style, ingredients used and the taste and flavour of the dishes. Each region has its own food specialities that are prepared using specific techniques and ingredients available in that region. Whether you are a foodie or not, you must feast on these local delicacies to satiate your taste buds on your trip to India. Read on to know the dishes that are worth savouring:
- Vada pav in Mumbai: This finger licking food delicacy is one of the most loved street foods in Mumbai. Come to the city and you will find this yummy delicacy at almost every street and corner. It is prepared using potatoes which are deep fried and then put inside a small bun. It can be said that it is an Indian version of the veg burger. Vada pav is best served with green chutney and green chillies. Have this tasty dish when in the city and it will surely tantalise your taste buds and leave you asking for more.
- Chaat in Delhi: Delhi is the melting pot of India’s culinary traditions and is the ultimate food destination in India. Talking about the street food of the city, chaat is definitely one of the most delicious savoury snacks that you must savour in the capital city. The Hindi meaning of the word ‘chaat’ means finger licking and this dish lives up to its name. Although you will find a variety of chaats available in the markets, restaurants and streets of the capital city, the authentic chaat is a mouth-watering combination of diced potatoes which are deep fried, chickpeas, tamarind chutney, green chutney and dried ginger.
- Makki ki Roti and Sarson ka Sag in Punjab: Punjabi cuisine has much more to it than the dal makhani and butter chicken. One dish that is a must try here is makki ki roti and sarson ka saag. The combination of makki ki roti, which is cornmeal, and sarson ka saag, which is mustard green, is a match made in heaven. Prepared using a variety of spices and topped with dollops of white butter, this dish tastes fabulous. Winter is the best time to relish this heavenly delight.
- Dal Baati Churma in Rajasthan: This traditional Rajasthani treat is one of the most popular dishes of Rajasthan. The combination of spicy ‘dal’ with sweet ‘baati’ which are wheat dumplings prepared in tandoor is a treat for the taste buds. It is served by dipping baati in desi ghee. Do try this signature dish of Rajasthan when exploring the beautiful cities of the state like Jaipur and Udaipur. You’ll find many restaurants in Udaipur and Jaipur where you can enjoy this yummy delight in a royal setting.
- Rogan Josh in Srinagar: This dish from the Kashmiri cuisine will win your heart just like the scenic landscapes of the Valley. The Kashmiri cuisine is centred around meat dishes and this aromatic lamb dish is one of the most favourite dishes among foodies. The yoghurt based lamb curry is prepared by using various aromatic spices like cinnamon, bay leaves, cloves and cardamom which gives a unique taste and flavour to the dish. It is usually served with steamed rice or tandoori roti.
These are just some of the many tasty delights that one must relish when exploring different regions of the country. Do try them to experience the epic food scene in India.