Top 24 Must-Try Indian Dishes at Restaurants and in India

Indian food is lauded around the world for its complex flavors, diverse spices, and aroma. Traveling to India is a dream of many, and much of the experience is trying local food from chicken tikka masala to homemade samosas. Traditional recipes have been handed down through the generations, which may explain why locals have mastered the art of spice.

Having spent 3 months traveling around India, we were fortunate to sample some of the best Indian food the country had to offer. From famous dishes like Biryani rice to incredible breakfast options such as Masala Dosa, it is easy to see why we fell in love with so many different Indian foods while we were there.

Best Indian Dishes to Try at Home or At An Indian Restaurant

One thing is certain: while other popular cuisines around the world may have a few amazing dishes, India’s culinary strength truly lies in its vast assortment of dishes and desserts. When traveling through India, or even when cooking at home, there’s an opportunity to try something new every day. To help guide you, here are our picks for the most popular Indian dishes to try on your next trip to India or at an Indian restaurant.

1. Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken brings to mind creamy, vibrant, and heartily spiced gravy with tender pieces of chicken. Whether you’re exploring the streets of India or experimenting with Indian flavors at home, Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a dish you’ll find hard to resist. Originating from Northern India, particularly New Delhi, it has become a global representative of Indian cuisine.

The humble origin story of Butter Chicken revolves around minimizing waste and maximizing flavor. Restaurateurs in the mid-20th century, wanting to salvage leftover tandoori chicken, created this luscious dish that pairs perfectly with naan or basmati rice. The recipe’s magic lies in a beautifully balanced, smooth tomato sauce enriched with onions, cream, and butter. Every household and restaurant across India has its take on Butter Chicken, and trying as many as possible is highly recommended.

2. Tandoori Chicken

A culinary gem from Punjab, Tandoori Chicken is a feast not just for your taste buds but also for your eyes. Its vibrant red hue is as appetizing as its smoky, grilled flavor. Tandoori Chicken exemplifies the allure of spices and the magic of traditional cooking techniques.

Named after the ‘Tandoor,’ a clay oven used extensively in Indian cooking, Tandoori Chicken is marinated in a flavorful blend of yogurt and spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, then slow-cooked in the Tandoor. The result is succulent, smoky chicken with a slightly charred exterior, best enjoyed with a squeeze of lime and a side of mint chutney.

3. Chicken Tikka Masala

Regarded as a symbol of Britain’s multicultural cuisine, Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish with an Indian soul. This dish features tender chicken tikka pieces simmered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce, bursting with traditional Indian spices, making it a universal favorite.

Marinated in yogurt and spiced, the chicken is grilled to perfection before being combined with a mouth-watering sauce made from tomatoes, cream, and a symphony of spices, imparting an irresistible depth of flavor. The char-grilled aroma, tangy sweetness, spiciness of the masalas, and the richness of the cream create a symphony of flavors on the palate.

4. Rogan Josh

Hailing from Kashmir, Rogan Josh presents a robust meat curry, typically made with braised lamb or beef, cooked in an aromatic, richly flavored sauce. The name translates to ‘red heat,’ aptly reflecting its color and warmth.

The slow-cooked meat absorbs the flavors of spices such as ginger, bay leaves, cardamom, and the all-important Kashmiri red chili, giving the dish its distinctive deep red hue. The layers of flavor are complex yet delicately balanced, offering comfort and a depth of flavor that lingers.

5. Korma

With origins in the royal kitchens of the Mughal empire, Korma is a creamy, aromatic curry made with proteins such as chicken, lamb, or paneer. The cooking method, known as ‘braising,’ leads to a mild yet richly flavored dish.

The protein is gently cooked with a mixture of yogurt, cream, and a blend of spices, resulting in a curry that is both luxurious and inviting. Korma adds a touch of royal decadence to any meal, whether it is served with rice or naan.

6. Pani Puri

No culinary journey across India is complete without sampling Pani Puri. These bite-sized snacks are a cultural phenomenon known for their contrasting textures and flavors. Pani Puri features a hollow, crisp-fried ball filled with mashed potatoes and spices, topped with a tangy, spiced water made typically from tamarind and mint.

To eat, the Puri is filled with the Pani just before consumption, resulting in a burst of flavors and textures, a delightful experience unique to Indian street food.

7. Dosa

Originating from South India, dosa is a thin pancake made from fermented rice batter. Dosa varies across restaurants, each presenting a unique twist on this delectable dish. Whether served plain, with chutney, or stuffed with spiced potatoes (Masala Dosa), every bite promises a satisfying crunch with soft insides.

The art of making dosa is a skill cherished over the years, and it offers numerous variations across different regions, each enhancing the culinary experience.

8. Butter Naan (Leavened Flatbread)

An Indian meal often feels incomplete without Naan, with Butter Naan being one of the most popular varieties. Soft, fluffy, and slathered in melted butter, it perfectly complements rich curries and dry dishes.

Traditionally cooked in a tandoor, Naan boasts a unique flavor and a wonderfully soft texture. It elevates the overall dining experience, making it a must-try in any Indian restaurant.

9. Papdi Chaat

Chaat reigns supreme in Indian street food, with Papdi Chaat being a favorite. Combining crispy wafers with boiled chickpeas, potatoes, yogurt, and chutneys, it offers a delightful explosion of flavors and textures in every bite.

The balance of crispiness, tanginess, sweetness, and spice creates a memorable gastronomic experience, making Papdi Chaat a favorite for all seasons.

10. Chana Masala (Chickpea Curry)

Chana Masala, featuring chickpeas in a tangy and spicy gravy, is a hearty staple in many North Indian households. The rich flavors, combined with the protein-rich chickpeas, create a satisfying and comforting dish that pairs well with rice or any Indian bread.

11. Vindaloo Curry

Originating from Goa, Vindaloo Curry is known for its fiery and tangy flavor profile, traditionally made with pork but enjoyed in chicken, lamb, or prawn variations. This dish reflects Portuguese influences with its vibrant flavors and can be adjusted to suit individual heat preferences.

12. Aloo Matar

A classic vegetarian dish, Aloo Matar consists of potatoes and peas, often simmered in coconut milk or spiced tomato sauce, based on regional variations. This versatile dish can be served with basmati rice or paired with a Masala Dosa for an easy meal at home.

13. Biryani

Biryani is a fragrant rice dish laden with succulent pieces of meat (often chicken, mutton, or fish), encapsulating India’s culinary diversity. Its roots trace back to the Mughal Empire, where rice is fried in ghee before being cooked with aromatic spices, resulting in a feast for the senses.

14. Gulab Jamun

To conclude the culinary journey, Gulab Jamun is a must-try dessert. These soft, spongy balls made from milk solids and soaked in rose-flavored sugar syrup offer a delightful conclusion to any Indian meal.

15. Samosa

Samosas are a beloved deep-fried snack characterized by their triangular shape and savory filling, often comprising mashed potatoes and peas. Pairing crispy exterior with a flavorful filling, Samosas are enjoyed with tangy tamarind chutney or chickpea curry.

16. Dal

Dal Makhani, made from black lentils and red kidney beans, captures the essence of Indian cooking. The slow-cooked dish features a rich, creamy sauce, usually served with naan or rice, making it a comforting staple in Punjabi households.

17. Saag Paneer (Palak Paneer)

Palak Paneer combines the richness of paneer with wholesome spinach, creating a vibrant green curry. Each mouthful offers a comforting blend of sweetness and mild creaminess, enjoyed best with warm roti or fragrant basmati rice.

18. Malai Kofta

Malai Kofta is an indulgent dish featuring rich, creamy gravy and soft koftas, made from potatoes and paneer. Each bite is an explosion of flavors, exemplifying the elegance of Indian vegetarian cuisine.

19. Dhokla

Dhokla, a fluffy snack from Gujarat, showcases the versatility of Indian cuisine. Made from fermented rice and chickpea flour, it is steamed until soft and garnished with a tempering for added flavor, making it a delightful treat.

20. Aloo Gobi

Aloo Gobi is a classic Indian curry combining potatoes and cauliflower, sautéed with spices to create a subtly spiced dish. Its comforting flavor profile makes it a staple that pairs well with various Indian breads and rice dishes.

21. Masala Chai

Masa Chai is a spiced black tea that belongs on this list, perfectly complementing any Indian meal. With flavors varying by region, expect a blend of spices including cloves, cardamom, and ginger in your cup.

22. Chole Bhature

A classic combination of spicy chickpea curry and deep-fried bread, Chole Bhature offers contrasting textures and robust flavors, ideal for breakfast or lunch. Paired with pickles and yogurt raita, it creates a delightful culinary experience.

23. Poha

Poha, or flattened rice, is a beloved breakfast dish enjoyed across India. With its delicate balance of flavors, it offers a joyful start to the day, combining spices, peanuts, and a sprinkle of lemon juice.

24. Goan Prawn Curry

The Goan Prawn Curry, influenced by Portuguese flavors, combines fresh prawns with spices, dried red chilies, and tamarind for a tangy delight. This seafood dish is a must-try for anyone exploring Indian cuisine.

What To Know About Traditional Indian Food

What are the top 10 Indian Dishes?

The top 10 Indian dishes to try at an Indian restaurant include Biryani, Tandoori Chicken, Butter Chicken, Samosas, Pav Bhaji, Rogan Josh, Masala Dosa, Pani Puri, Chole Bhature, and Gulab Jamun.

What is the Most Popular Indian Dish?

Biryani takes the crown for popularity, celebrated for its fragrant spices, tender meat, and flavorful rice, appealing to food lovers around the globe.

What is the No 1 food item in India?

Once again, Biryani stands out as the number one food item, appreciated across various regions in India, each boasting its unique twist on this versatile dish.

Final Thoughts

With countless dishes to explore, the journey into Indian cuisine is never dull. As you travel across the country or experiment at home, revel in this culinary diversity and recreate the flavors of India in your kitchen.