India is a treasure trove of culinary delights, and its food is as diverse as its culture. From the spicy curries of the North to the tangy flavours of the South, Indian cuisine offers a myriad of tastes and aromas that tantalise the palate. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most delicious Indian takeaway dishes that you absolutely must try. Whether you’re a seasoned Indian food lover or a curious foodie, these dishes are sure to leave you craving for more. If you’re craving authentic Indian cuisine, a quick online search for ‘Let’s explore popular Indian takeaways near me’ will reveal a variety of local options that offer a taste of India’s rich culinary heritage right at your door.
What are the top 10 Indian dishes?
1. Butter Chicken: Often hailed as the ultimate comfort food, Butter Chicken is a beloved Indian curry worldwide. This dish features tandoori chicken pieces that are first marinated and then cooked in a heavenly, creamy tomato-based sauce. The sauce, rich with butter and cream, is delicately spiced with garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and other fragrant spices, creating a balance of savoury and slightly sweet flavours. Butter Chicken is a versatile dish, ideal for both Indian cuisine novices and connoisseurs, and pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or naan bread.
2. Paneer Tikka: Paneer Tikka is a vegetarian’s delight, showcasing India’s love for paneer, a type of fresh cheese common in South Asian cuisine. This dish involves chunks of paneer marinated in a blend of yogurt and traditional Indian spices like tandoori masala, garlic, and ginger, then grilled to perfection. Served with mint chutney and onion rings, Paneer Tikka is a popular appetiser and a staple at Indian festivities and restaurants.
3. Rogan Josh: Originating from the beautiful valleys of Kashmir, Rogan Josh is a signature dish that epitomizes the richness of Indian cuisine. It consists of tender pieces of lamb or mutton slow-cooked in a sauce bursting with flavours from a variety of spices like fennel seeds, garam masala, and dried ginger. The dish is known for its deep red colour, traditionally achieved with ratanjot root, and its aromatic, slightly spicy gravy. Rogan Josh is often enjoyed with rice or naan, making it a hearty and fulfilling meal.
4. Chole Bhature: A classic dish from North India, Chole Bhature is a combination of spicy chickpeas (Chole) and deep-fried bread (Bhature). The chickpeas are cooked in a rich, tangy gravy made with onions, tomatoes, and a mix of spices like cumin, coriander, and amchur (dry mango powder). Bhature, a fluffy, leavened bread is the perfect accompaniment to scoop up the flavourful chole. This dish is a popular breakfast and street food choice in many parts of India.
5. Masala Dosa: A beloved dish from South India, Masala Dosa has gained popularity across the globe. It’s a thin, crispy crepe made from a fermented batter of rice and lentils, filled with a savoury, spicy potato mixture. The filling typically includes boiled potatoes, onions, green chilies, and mustard seeds. Served with coconut chutney and sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew), Masala Dosa is not just a breakfast item but a meal enjoyed any time of the day.
6. Palak Paneer: Palak Paneer, a delightful blend of spinach and cottage cheese, hails from the vibrant culinary landscape of Northern India. A harmonious blend of health and flavour, Palak Paneer is a smooth spinach curry with cubes of soft paneer. The spinach is pureed and cooked with spices like garlic, garam masala, and cumin, along with the paneer, which soaks up the flavours of the gravy. This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of spinach, rich in iron and vitamins, combined with the protein-rich paneer. Palak Paneer is often relished with roti (Indian flatbread) or rice, and is a favourite in both home kitchens and restaurants for its comforting, earthy flavours.
7. Biryani: Biryani is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of Indian culinary traditions. This aromatic rice dish is cooked with a variety of spices, including cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, which lend it a distinctive fragrance. Layers of basmati rice and marinated meat (chicken, lamb, or beef) or vegetables are cooked together, often with a hint of saffron for its unique flavour and colour. Each region in India offers its own version of Biryani, making it a versatile and universally loved dish. Perfect for gatherings and special occasions, Biryani is a testament to the rich and diverse flavours of Indian cuisine.
8. Vada Pav: Often referred to as Mumbai’s burger, Vada Pav is a beloved street food in India. This simple yet flavourful snack consists of a spicy potato fritter (Vada) sandwiched in a soft bread bun (Pav). The potato fritter is made with mashed potatoes, garlic, ginger, green chilies, and mustard seeds, coated in a gram flour batter and deep-fried. Served with a range of chutneys like tamarind and green chili-garlic, and often accompanied by fried green chilies, Vada Pav is not just food; it’s an emotion for many Mumbaikars and a must-try for visitors.
9. Fish Curry: A staple in the coastal regions of India, Fish Curry is as diverse as the country itself. Prepared with fresh fish, this curry combines tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices like turmeric, coriander, and cumin. Each coastal area adds its twist, with some using coconut milk for a creamy texture and others tamarind for a tangy flavour. The use of local fish and regional spices makes each version of Fish Curry unique. It’s typically enjoyed with rice, providing a hearty and flavourful meal that’s both nutritious and comforting.
10. Gulab Jamun: No Indian meal is complete without Gulab Jamun. This is a quintessential Indian dessert, beloved in every corner of the country and a must-have at celebrations and festivals. These sweet, sticky balls are made from khoya or milk solids, mixed with a little flour and then rolled into small balls. These balls are deep-fried to a golden brown and then soaked in a warm, fragrant syrup made of sugar, water, cardamom, and often a hint of rose water, which gives the dessert its name (“Gulab” means rose in Hindi). The result is a rich, melt-in-your-mouth treat, with a balance of sweetness and a hint of spice. Often served warm, Gulab Jamun is irresistible when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own. Its popularity in Indian cuisine makes it a staple dessert in Indian restaurants worldwide, and its delightful flavour has won the hearts of many, making it a symbol of Indian sweet indulgence.
What is the most popular Indian takeaway dish?
The most popular Indian takeaway dish is undoubtedly Butter Chicken. This dish has won the hearts of many with its creamy, tomato-based sauce and tender chicken pieces. It’s a perfect blend of tangy and creamy, and it’s usually less spicy, making it a hit among people of all ages.
Which five are popular Indian dishes?
- Chicken Tikka Masala: This dish is a global ambassador of Indian cuisine, loved for its rich and flavourful profile. It starts with ‘Chicken Tikka’, where pieces of chicken are marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices like garam masala, garlic, ginger, and cumin, then grilled until smoky and tender. These grilled chicken pieces are then simmered in a creamy, vibrant sauce made from tomatoes, onions, garlic, and various spices such as turmeric, paprika, and coriander. The sauce is enriched with cream or coconut milk, giving it a luxurious texture and a slightly sweet flavour that balances the spices. Chicken Tikka Masala is often garnished with fresh coriander and served with rice or naan bread, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Aloo Gobi: A popular Indian dish, Aloo Gobi is a simple yet flavourful preparation. It consists of spiced potatoes (‘Aloo’) and cauliflower (‘Gobi’) which are stir-fried with a variety of aromatic spices. Turmeric gives the dish its signature golden colour, while cumin, coriander, ginger, and garam masala add depth and warmth. The vegetables are often cooked to a point where they are tender but still retain some bite, creating a satisfying texture. Aloo Gobi is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish, and it pairs well with both rice and flatbreads like roti or naan.
- Dal Makhani: This dish is a staple in North Indian cuisine and is known for its rich and buttery flavor. It is made with whole black lentils (urad dal) and red kidney beans (rajma), which are soaked overnight and then slow-cooked to achieve a creamy consistency. The lentils are simmered with a base of onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices including cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The real magic happens with the addition of generous amounts of butter and cream, which transform the dish into a velvety and indulgent treat. Dal Makhani is typically enjoyed with naan or rice and is a staple in celebratory meals and special occasions.
- Naan: Naan is a leavened, oven-baked flatbread found in the cuisines of Central and South Asia. Made from wheat flour, it is soft and pillowy, with a slightly chewy texture. The dough is kneaded with yogurt, milk, or water, and then rolled into flat, round shapes before being baked in a tandoor (a clay oven), which gives it a distinctive char and smokiness. Naan can be brushed with butter or ghee and often garnished with garlic or coriander. It is the perfect accompaniment to a variety of Indian dishes, particularly curries, as it’s ideal for soaking up sauces and gravies.
- Samosa: A ubiquitous snack in Indian cuisine, Samosas are fried or baked pastries with a savoury filling. The classic filling is a mixture of mashed boiled potatoes, green peas, spices like cumin, coriander, garam masala, and amchur (dry mango powder) for tanginess, and sometimes finely chopped green chillies for heat. This mixture is enveloped in a thin pastry shell made from all-purpose flour. Samosas are typically triangular or cone-shaped and are deep-fried to a golden-brown, resulting in a crispy outer layer with a warm, spicy, and hearty filling. They are often served with chutneys such as tamarind or mint-coriander for dipping, making them a perfect snack for any time of the day.
What are 4 dishes traditionally eaten in India?
- Rajma Chawal: This dish is a staple in North Indian cuisine, especially loved for its home-cooked comfort. ‘Rajma’ refers to red kidney beans that are soaked overnight, then cooked until tender in a thick gravy made from onions, tomatoes, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, garam masala, and turmeric. The beans are simmered until they absorb the flavours of the gravy, creating a rich and hearty dish. It’s served over a bed of steaming fragrant Basmati rice (‘Chawal’), making it a wholesome meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Rajma Chawal is often enjoyed with a side of pickles or a fresh green salad.
- Pav Bhaji: Originating from the bustling streets of Mumbai, Pav Bhaji is a fast-food dish that has gained popularity across India. ‘Pav’ is a type of Indian bread roll, buttered and lightly toasted on a griddle. ‘Bhaji’ is a spicy and tangy mash made from a medley of vegetables like potatoes, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and green peas. These vegetables are cooked and mashed together with a special blend of spices, including pav bhaji masala, red chilli powder, and turmeric, resulting in a thick, vibrant mixture. The dish is garnished with fresh coriander, a squeeze of lemon, and often topped with a dollop of butter. It’s commonly served with chopped onions and a lemon wedge on the side.
- Pani Puri: A beloved snack across India, Pani Puri is a delightful combination of taste and textures. It consists of small, round, hollow puris (crisp deep-fried balls made from semolina or wheat flour) which are punctured on top and filled with a mixture of flavoured water (‘Pani’), tamarind chutney, chilli, chaat masala, mashed potatoes, diced onions, and boiled chickpeas. The flavoured water is typically a tangy and spicy blend of tamarind, mint, green chilli, and cumin. Each puri is eaten whole in a single bite, leading to an explosion of flavours in the mouth. Pani Puri is not just a food item; it’s an experience, often enjoyed at street food stalls where the vendor customises the filling and spice level to each customer’s preference.
- Idli Sambar: A classic South Indian dish, Idli Sambar is renowned for its simplicity and nutrition. Idli are soft, pillowy steamed rice cakes made from a fermented batter of ground rice and urad dal (black lentils). The fermentation process adds a slight sourness to the idlis and makes them wonderfully light and fluffy. They are typically served with Sambar, a savoury, tangy soup made from toor dal (pigeon pea lentils), tamarind, and a variety of vegetables like drumsticks, eggplant, pumpkin, and tomatoes. The soup is flavoured with a special blend of spices and herbs, including mustard seeds, curry leaves, asafoetida, and red chillies. Idli Sambar is often accompanied by a variety of chutneys, such as coconut chutney or tomato chutney, making it a balanced and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the day.
Which is the tastiest Indian food?
Determining the tastiest Indian food can be a topic of lively debate, as it is inherently subjective and influenced by personal taste preferences. Nonetheless, many food enthusiasts and culinary experts often cite Biryani as one of the top contenders in Indian cuisine. This iconic dish is celebrated for its harmonious blend of flavours: this fragrant rice dish is a rich array of spices, and consists of marinated pieces of meat or a mixture of vegetables. Each element in Biryani is carefully prepared and layered, allowing the flavours to meld and intensify during the cooking process. The spices – typically including saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves – impart a complex, aromatic profile, while the meat or vegetables, marinated in yogurt and spices, contribute depth and heartiness. This intricate combination of ingredients and cooking techniques results in a dish that is not only deeply satisfying but also a sensory journey through the rich tapestry of Indian flavours, making Biryani a strong contender for the title of the tastiest Indian food.
What is India’s top 1 famous food?
As for India’s number one famous food, Biryani stands proudly at the pinnacle. More than a mere culinary delight, Biryani represents a gastronomic odyssey, deeply embedded in India’s diverse cultural fabric. It’s not just a dish, but an emblem of the subcontinent’s rich culinary heritage. Biryani varies significantly from region to region, with each variant reflecting the local flavours and traditions. For instance, the Hyderabadi Dum Biryani is known for its intricate layering and slow-cooking method, which seals in the flavours and aromas, resulting in a dish that is both delicate and robust. On the other hand, the Kolkata Biryani, influenced by the city’s historical connections, features lighter spices and includes potatoes along with meat or chicken. These regional variations add to the allure of Biryani, making it a dish that not only tantalises the taste buds but also tells the story of India’s diverse culinary landscape. It’s this combination of rich flavors, cultural significance, and regional diversity that makes Biryani arguably the most famous and celebrated dish in Indian cuisine. At any Indian wedding, the presence of Biryani is essential. This celebrated Indian dish, with its rich flavours and festive essence, is a staple at such grand occasions, embodying the joy and opulence of the celebration.
Exploring Swagath Biryani House
After exploring the rich and diverse world of best Indian dishes available for takeaway, if you find yourself in Sydney, Australia craving for some authentic Indian food and especially Indian Vegetarian dishes, place online ordering from Swagath Biryani House. Located at the heart of Sydney, Australia, Swagath Biryani House is an Indian restaurant that offers a tantalising array of Indian dishes, with a special focus on the iconic Biryani. Known for their use of traditional recipes and fresh ingredients, they provide an authentic Indian dining experience. Whether you are in the mood for a spicy Rogan Josh or a flavourful Biryani, Swagath Biryani House promises to transport your taste buds straight to the streets of India. Check out their menu and more at Swagath Biryani House.
With these mouth-watering Indian takeaway dishes, you’re now equipped to dive into the rich and flavourful world of Indian cuisine. Whether it’s the creamy Butter Chicken or the spicy Pani Puri, each dish has a story to tell and an experience to offer. So, the next time you’re thinking of ordering takeaway, why not give one of these Indian dishes a try and order from Sawgath Biryani House? Your taste buds will thank you!
Swagath Biryani House offers an easy, user-friendly online ordering system. This platform is not only intuitive but also safe and secure, ensuring a seamless experience when placing your takeaway order. Whether you’re craving the rich flavours of Biryani or any other Indian specialty, Swagath Biryani House makes it effortless to enjoy your favorite dishes with just a few clicks.
Conclusion
So in this blog, we’ve journeyed through the diverse and rich tapestry of Indian dishes, exploring dishes that delight the palate and warm the soul. From the creamy Butter Chicken to the aromatic Biryani, each recipe offers a unique taste of India’s culinary prowess. These most famous Indian dishes are not just food; they are a celebration of culture, tradition, and the endless creativity of Indian cooking. Whether you’re a connoisseur of Indian food or a curious explorer of new flavours, these dishes are sure to provide an unforgettable culinary experience.