The first time I truly fell in love with Indian food, I wasn’t at a fancy restaurant. I was in a friend’s kitchen, watching her add spices—one by one—to a simmering pot like she was conducting an orchestra. The smells, the colors, the sheer complexity of it all had me completely hooked. Since then, I’ve tried Indian food in homes, on street corners, and everywhere in between—and each dish has left its own mark.
15 Indian Dishes that I’ve Tried and Loved
Having tasted these amazing dishes, these are the ones that I would recommend to anyone ready to dive into one of the world’s most vibrant cuisines.
1. Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)
This one is a classic for a reason. The chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked in a buttery, tomato-rich gravy that’s creamy but never heavy. I always order extra naan just for the sauce.
2. Masala Dosa
A crispy, golden-brown rice crepe wrapped around a spicy potato filling—served with tangy sambar and coconut chutney on the side. The dosa crackles when you break it, and the filling has that comforting, mashed-potato-meets-curry vibe I can’t resist.
3. Hyderabadi Biryani
This isn’t just rice. It’s layers of saffron-infused basmati rice and tender marinated meat (usually chicken or lamb), cooked together in a sealed pot. Every bite is rich with spices, caramelized onions, and sometimes a surprise bite of cardamom or clove.
While its origins are heavily debated, our favorite Hydrabadi version goes as far back as the Mughal Empire, which ruled India from the early 16th to the mid-19th century.
4. Chole Bhature
Think fluffy, deep-fried bread puffed up like a balloon—served with a bowl of spicy chickpea curry. I tried this in Delhi and couldn’t believe how something so simple could be so satisfying. Messy, hearty, and perfect with a cold glass of lassi.
5. Rajma (Kidney Bean Curry)
Rajma feels like the Indian version of chili—comforting, rich, and best served over steaming white rice. The beans are slow-cooked in a tomato-based gravy spiced with cumin, ginger, garlic, and a hint of garam masala. It’s the kind of dish I crave on quiet evenings.
6. Palak Paneer
There’s something incredibly comforting about this spinach and cheese combo. The paneer is soft and mild, like tofu, but creamier, and the spinach is pureed into a bright sauce with just enough heat and tang. It’s earthy, rich, and surprisingly light.
7. Rogan Josh
This Kashmiri lamb curry is all about depth—tender chunks of lamb cooked slowly in a sauce that’s fragrant with fennel, cardamom, and dried ginger. It’s not overly spicy, but it’s bold. Every bite tastes like it’s been simmering all afternoon.
8. Pani Puri
Imagine tiny, crisp hollow balls filled with spiced potatoes and tangy tamarind water—you pop one into your mouth whole and it explodes with flavor. It’s not elegant eating, but it’s fun and unforgettable. Street food at its best, but you can make it at home as well.
9. Tandoori Chicken
Marinated overnight in yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and spices, then roasted in a tandoor until charred and smoky. The meat is juicy with just enough heat to make your lips tingle. Served hot off the grill, it’s hard to beat.
10. Baingan Bharta
This one surprised me. It’s made from roasted eggplant mashed with garlic, onions, tomatoes, and spices—and it’s one of the most flavorful vegetarian dishes I’ve ever had. Smoky, bold, and deeply satisfying, even for people who “don’t like eggplant.”
11. Kadhi Pakora
This dish is comfort food through and through—soft chickpea flour dumplings (pakoras) floating in a tangy, yogurt-based gravy. The bright yellow sauce has just the right balance of sour and spice. I always go back for seconds.
12. Pav Bhaji
A spicy vegetable mash cooked on a flat griddle and served with buttered, toasted buns. The whole thing is garnished with raw onions and a squeeze of lime. It’s fast, filling, and pure comfort food—India’s version of sloppy joes but with way more flavor.
13. Aloo Gobi
Potatoes and cauliflower might sound boring, but this dish is anything but. Dry-fried with turmeric, cumin, garlic, and fresh coriander, the vegetables are tender and golden with just a touch of crisp on the edges. A staple that’s far more exciting than it sounds.
14. Gulab Jamun
These little round sweets are like doughnuts soaked in rose-scented sugar syrup. Like biryani, we owe to the Mughals of 16th century for this sweet miracle.
Warm and soft, they melt in your mouth. I’ve eaten them with my hands more than once because a spoon just felt too slow.
15. Mango Lassi
A chilled, creamy drink made from yogurt, ripe mangoes, and a touch of cardamom. It’s sweet and slightly tangy—the perfect companion to a spicy meal. I’ve made it at home many times, and it never disappoints.
For All Your Travel Cravings
Let me introduce you to our Canada Hustle app. No matter where in the world I go, I end up craving Indian food at least a couple of times. And with this app, you can easily find the best and nearest restaurant in your area. So your favorite cuisine is always only a few clicks away.
Available for both Android and iOS users, this one’s a lovely travel buddy. Thrills, history, peace and quiet, or the most delicious bite—Canada Hustle shapes experiences to match your travel spirit.
The Last Bite
Every one of these dishes has a story, a memory, or a moment tied to it for me. Indian food is more than just a collection of recipes—it’s a full sensory experience that draws you in and stays with you. If you haven’t yet explored beyond the basics, I hope this list inspires you to dive in headfirst. Trust me—your taste buds will thank you.
Last Updated on June 9, 2025 by Joshita
