Discover the essence of Indian cuisine with 10 must-try iconic dishes! A culinary journey awaits!
India, a land of vibrant culture and diverse traditions, is also a culinary paradise. From the snow-capped
Himalayas to the sun-kissed beaches of the south, each region boasts of unique flavors and cooking styles.
Vegetarian cuisine holds a special place in the hearts of many Indians, and the sheer variety of dishes is astonishing.
We present to you ten iconic vegetarian Indian dishes that you absolutely must experience before you bid adieu to this world – a gastronomic journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. The spices, the aromas, the textures - it's an adventure for your senses.
Make sure you savor each bite!
Creamy Dal Makhani from Punjab, slow-cooked marvel with rich, velvety texture, best enjoyed with naan
First on our list is the humble yet magnificent Dal Makhani. Originating from Punjab, this creamy lentil dish is a slow-cooked marvel. Black lentils and kidney beans are simmered overnight with butter and cream, resulting in a rich and velvety texture.
The smoky flavor, achieved by using charcoal during the cooking process, adds another layer of complexity. Dal Makhani is best enjoyed with naan or roti, allowing you to soak up every last drop of its deliciousness. Truly, a comfort food fit for royalty!
Finding a good Dal Makhani is key to unlocking the true flavors of Punjab, so always source it from reliable spots!
Paneer Butter Masala: a creamy, rich North Indian dish loved by all
Next up is the ever-popular Paneer Butter Masala. This North Indian staple features chunks of paneer (Indian cheese) simmered in a creamy tomato-based gravy. The addition of butter and aromatic spices elevates the dish to another level of indulgence.
Every restaurant offers it, but finding the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and tanginess is what separates a good Paneer Butter Masala from a great one. It's a dish that appeals to both young and old, making it a universal favorite. Go ahead and try it with some jeera rice!
South Indian Dosa: a crispy crepe with endless flavors, served with sambar and chutney
Moving south, we have the quintessential Dosa. A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter, Dosa is a South Indian breakfast staple that has won hearts across the country.
Served with sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew) and coconut chutney, it's a symphony of flavors and textures. From the classic plain dosa to the masala dosa stuffed with spiced potatoes, the possibilities are endless. And don't forget the crispy Rava Dosa version either! It is truly addictive.
With so many varieties to choose from it can please any palate.
Delicious street food: Chole Bhature, spicy chickpeas with fried bread from Delhi
Our fourth recommendation is the tangy and spicy Chole Bhature. Coming from the streets of Delhi, Chole Bhature is a combination of spicy chickpeas and fried bread. The chole, cooked with a blend of aromatic spices, is usually served with fluffy bhaturas, which are deep-fried using leavened dough.
This is typically a street food delicacy, often enjoyed for brunch or a satisfying afternoon snack. The richness of the bhature combined with the tangy, spicy chole creates an unforgettable culinary experience. Be sure to ask for extra onions!
Dhokla: Gujarati steamed cake, popular and healthy snack
Now, let's venture into the world of Gujarati cuisine with the delightful Dhokla! Dhokla, a steamed cake made from fermented batter of gram flour, is light, fluffy, and subtly sweet. It’s often tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies, adding a tangy and spicy element.
Dhokla is a popular snack and breakfast option in Gujarat, but it is gaining immense popularity across India. A great option for those seeking something healthy and fulfilling. Do not forget to enjoy it with some chutney on the side!
Flavorful Baingan Bharta, a smoky eggplant dish loved by all
Our sixth vegetarian delicacy is the flavorful Baingan Bharta, a North Indian specialty. This dish features smoked eggplant mashed and cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. The smoky flavor of the eggplant is what sets Baingan Bharta apart.
It is typically enjoyed with roti or naan, and it is a perfect side dish for any Indian meal. A truly rustic and comforting dish, it is an excellent vegetarian offering that even nonvegetarians love because of so many flavours being added. Every spoonful offers a burst of taste.
South Indian staple: Idli Sambar, a wholesome and delicious meal combo
Next up is the delightful Idli Sambar. Simple, wholesome and delicious and Idli Sambar is a South Indian staple that is a favourite across the country. Soft, fluffy idlis are steamed rice cakes, and it is served with sambar. It forms a complete and delicious meal.
The sambar, a medley of lentils, vegetables and tamarind brings a delightful tangy flavour to the dish and it is usually enjoyed with coconut chutney, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.
Explore royal Awadhi cuisine with aromatic Vegetable Biryani, a fulfilling meal tantalizing the senses
Now, let's explore the royal flavors of Awadhi cuisine with the delectable Vegetable Biryani. This aromatic rice dish is cooked with an assortment of vegetables, fragrant spices, and saffron milk. The biryani is slow-cooked in a sealed pot (dum), which allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Served with raita (yogurt dip), Vegetable Biryani is a complete and fulfilling meal that will tantalize your senses. It is an absolute feast made with the freshest ingredients. It is quite a popular meal that leaves one craving for more.
Rajasthani Gatte ki Sabzi: Gram flour dumplings in yoghurt gravy
Our ninth dish on the list is the delicious Gatte ki Sabzi, a Rajasthani delicacy. Gatte are gram flour dumplings, steamed and then added to a yoghurt-based gravy. The slightly tangy flavour and it is a nice blend of textures, it provides a delightful taste for everyone.
It is best served with roti or rice. This dish is a perfect example of Rajasthani cuisine's resourcefulness, making the most of readily available ingredients.
Mumbai's iconic street food: Vada Pav with spicy garlic chutney
Finally, rounding out our top ten, we have the delightful Vada Pav. A quintessential Mumbai street food, Vada Pav is a deep-fried potato patty served in a bun (pav) with chutneys. The spicy garlic chutney is the magic ingredient that elevates Vada Pav to its iconic status.
A quick, affordable, and delicious snack. Vada Pav is a must-try for anyone visiting Mumbai. So next time when you are here, just have one.
