If you’re curious about Indian food, you’ll want to check out these 19 must-try dishes. They’re not just meals; they’re a journey through India’s diverse regions. You’ll find something comforting and familiar alongside dishes that might challenge your taste buds in the best way possible. It’s all about exploring and enjoying the variety. Dive in, and you might just find your new favorite meal among these beloved classics.
Mango Rice
This dish pairs the sweetness of mango with the subtle flavors of rice, creating a refreshing contrast that’s perfect for a summer meal. It’s a delightful twist on the traditional, offering a burst of flavor in each bite. Ideal for those looking to add a tropical spin to their dining table, it’s easy to see why this one’s a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Mango Rice
Lamb Curry Instant Pot
Making use of modern cooking techniques, this Lamb Curry recipe delivers deep flavors in less time. It’s rich, meaty, and perfectly spiced, making it a hassle-free meal for any day of the week. The Instant Pot does the heavy lifting, letting you enjoy complex tastes without the long cooking time.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Curry Instant Pot
Gujarati Kadhi
A comforting bowl of Gujarati Kadhi is all about soothing, tangy flavors that are a hallmark of Gujarati cuisine. This yogurt-based gravy is light yet satisfying, perfect for those who enjoy a meal that’s both simple and flavorful. It’s often enjoyed with rice or khichdi, making it a staple in many households.
Get the Recipe: Gujarati Kadhi
Lamb Palak Saag Gosht
Combining tender lamb with nutrient-rich spinach, this dish is a hearty choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s a robust meal that brings warmth with every bite, ideal for chilly evenings. Often savored with bread or rice, it’s a full meal that promises to satisfy.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Palak Saag Gosht
Shahi Paneer Instant Pot
Shahi Paneer is a royal treat made effortlessly in the Instant Pot, combining creamy cheese with a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s luxurious and velvety, perfect for those special dinner occasions. Paired with naan or rice, it offers a dining experience that’s hard to forget.
Get the Recipe: Shahi Paneer Instant Pot
Beans Palya Beans Poriyal
This South Indian delight features stir-fried beans with coconut and a sprinkle of mustard seeds, offering a crunch with every bite. It’s a light, nutritious side that complements both rice and roti beautifully. A perfect choice for those seeking something simple yet flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Beans Palya Beans Poriyal
Mango Dal
Mango Dal brings a sweet and sour flavor to the traditional lentil dish, making it a refreshing summer meal. It’s a vibrant mix of tastes that enhances the plain canvas of dal, proving that even everyday ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary.
Get the Recipe: Mango Dal
Cabbage Palya
A testament to the magic of simple ingredients, turning the often-overlooked cabbage into a dish full of flavor with just a few spices and a quick stir-fry process. Cabbage Palya is great for a light lunch or as an accompaniment to a more elaborate dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Palya
Kosambari
This traditional salad is crisp, fresh, and full of texture, combining lentils with cucumber and carrot, dressed lightly. Kosambari is often served during festive occasions as a refreshing side, perfect for balancing out richer dishes.
Get the Recipe: Kosambari
Majjige Huli
A comforting, yogurt-based curry that’s mildly spiced and very soothing. Majjige Huli is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of tang in their meals, often served over rice or with a side of hot chapatis. It’s a staple in many homes for its comforting qualities.
Get the Recipe: Majjige Huli
Kitchari Instant Pot
Kitchari, made in an Instant Pot, combines rice and lentils into a nourishing and digestible meal that’s ready in no time. It’s a go-to dish for anyone seeking a wholesome meal, often enjoyed with a dollop of ghee on top for an extra touch of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Kitchari Instant Pot
Bharwa Bhindi
Stuffed with a tantalizing filling, Bharwa Bhindi takes the humble okra to new heights. Each piece is packed with spices, offering a crunchy, flavorful experience. It’s a popular choice for a side dish or a main course in vegetarian feasts.
Get the Recipe: Bharwa Bhindi
Basmati Rice
The aroma of freshly cooked Basmati Rice is irresistible. This staple grain is versatile and pairs well with almost anything, serving as the perfect base for any meal that needs a gentle, fragrant complement. It’s a simple pleasure that elevates any dish it accompanies.
Get the Recipe: Basmati Rice
Dal Palak Spinach Dal
This combination is not only hearty but also packed with vitamins, making it a smart choice for a healthy diet. Dal Palak blends lentils with spinach for a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. It’s a comforting bowl that feels both indulgent and beneficial.
Get the Recipe: Dal Palak Spinach Dal
Instant Pot Jeera Rice
This aromatic dish is a fantastic side that adds a subtle flavor boost to meals, great for those looking to spice up their dinner routine without too much fuss. Instant Pot Jeera Rice takes the hassle out of cooking, delivering perfectly fluffy rice seasoned with cumin seeds.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Jeera Rice
Masala Mac and Cheese
Imagine your favorite comfort food with a spicy twist; that’s Masala Mac and Cheese. It’s creamy, cheesy, and just spicy enough to keep things interesting. This fusion dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings where you want to serve something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Masala Mac and Cheese
Chettinad Chicken
This dish is a feast for the senses, offering a deep, tantalizing flavor that makes it a favorite among spice enthusiasts. Chettinad Chicken is famous for its rich aroma and the bold spices that define the Chettinad region. It’s a real treat for anyone looking to explore authentic regional Indian cooking.
Get the Recipe: Chettinad Chicken
Ragi Rotti
A nutritious alternative to traditional flatbreads, made from ragi flour known for its health benefits. Ragi Rotti is a bread that is staple in many diets, offering a rustic, hearty texture that pairs well with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. It’s a simple way to incorporate more grains into your meals.
Get the Recipe: Ragi Rotti
Kolhapuri Lamb/Lamb Kolhapur
This dish is bold and assertive, perfect for those who love their food to pack a punch. Lamb Kolhapur brings together the intense heat of Kolhapuri cuisine with the richness of lamb. It’s a hearty meal that commands attention at the table, celebrated for its vibrant and robust flavors.
Get the Recipe: Kolhapuri Lamb/Lamb Kolhapur