If you’re a food lover and a fan of Indian cuisine, you may think you’ve tried it all. From butter chicken to biryani, the classic dishes of India are well known and loved around the world. However, there is a whole world of lesser-known Indian cuisines waiting to be explored. These regional cuisines showcase unique flavors and ingredients that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. So, if you’re ready to go beyond the usual dishes, here are some Indian cuisines you should definitely try.
1. Bengali Cuisine
Bengali cuisine is known for its bold and complex flavors. Influenced by the use of mustard oil and the abundance of seafood, Bengali dishes are a true reflection of the region’s coastal location. The cuisine also incorporates a variety of vegetables, lentils, and spices, making it a great choice for vegetarians. Must-try dishes include the famous fish curry, known as macher jhol, and the quintessential Bengali sweet, rasgulla.
2. Rajasthani Cuisine
Rajasthani cuisine is all about indulgence and richness. Known for its use of ghee, spices, and dry fruits, Rajasthani dishes are not for the faint of heart. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region’s arid climate, with dishes like dal bati churma, a hearty dish made with lentils and wheat flour dumplings, and gatte ki sabzi, a spicy curry made with gram flour dumplings. Rajasthani cuisine is a must-try for those who love bold and robust flavors.
3. Kashmiri Cuisine
Kashmiri cuisine is a blend of Indian, Persian, and Central Asian influences. The cuisine is known for its use of aromatic spices like saffron, cardamom, and fennel. The most famous dish from this region is the rich and creamy rogan josh, a lamb curry cooked in a tomato-based gravy. Another must-try is the Kashmiri pulao, a fragrant and flavorful rice dish made with nuts, dry fruits, and saffron.
4. Malabari Cuisine
Malabari cuisine is the perfect representation of the coastal region of Kerala. This cuisine is all about simplicity and freshness, with a focus on seafood and coconut-based dishes. The use of coconut oil and coconut milk gives Malabari dishes a distinct flavor. Some must-try dishes include the spicy and tangy fish curry, meen moilee, and the creamy and flavorful prawn curry, chemmeen muringakka curry.
5. Chettinad Cuisine
Chettinad cuisine is the pride of Tamil Nadu. Known for its use of a variety of spices, Chettinad dishes are fiery and flavorful. The cuisine uses a lot of meat, especially chicken and mutton, but also has plenty of vegetarian options. The famous Chettinad chicken curry, with its blend of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and fennel, is a must-try. Another popular dish is the aromatic and tangy Chettinad fish curry.
6. Assamese Cuisine
Assamese cuisine is a celebration of the region’s diverse flora and fauna. The cuisine is heavily influenced by its proximity to the Brahmaputra river, with dishes like fish tenga, a tangy and spicy fish curry, and khar, a dish made with raw papaya and pulses. Assamese cuisine also has a variety of vegetarian dishes, including the popular pitika, a mashed potato dish with onions, chilies, and mustard oil.
7. Sindhi Cuisine
Sindhi cuisine is a fusion of flavors from the Sindh region of Pakistan and the Indian state of Gujarat. The cuisine is known for its use of dry fruits, spices, and ghee. The famous Sindhi biryani, a rice dish layered with meat, vegetables, and spices, is a must-try. Another popular dish is sai bhaji, a flavorful mix of lentils, vegetables, and spices.
8. Awadhi Cuisine
Awadhi cuisine is the pride of Lucknow, known for its royal and elaborate dishes. The cuisine is heavily influenced by Mughlai and Persian flavors, with dishes like biryani, kebabs, and korma being the highlights. The famous Awadhi biryani, with its layers of fragrant rice and succulent meat,
