Your Guide to Enjoy Indian Food Without Worry

Indian cuisine is as diverse as its culture. Beyond the abundant spices, even naan bread comes in dozens of varieties, each with its own texture and ideal pairings of dishes and dips. On your upcoming trip to India, you might find yourself lingering at a food stall, mouthwatering yet hesitant. Concerns about food hygiene, water quality, and adjusting to local spices often arise when we watch vlogs about Indian food.

In this article, we will introduce must-try Indian food and share tips on how to choose food safely and enjoy street snacks with confidence. By eating like the locals, you will embark on a flavorful adventure, fully immerse yourself in the culture, and experience the incredible of India.

Why You Should Try Indian Food

Indian food is built on a foundation of bold and aromatic spices that give each dish its unique character. Spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cardamom are more than just ingredients - they are the soul of Indian cooking. These spices are masterfully combined to create vibrant flavors that range from fiery and tangy to sweet and earthy.

With rich seasonings, Indian cuisine transforms simple ingredients into unforgettable dishes. Especially India street food, it is like a window into the heart of India, shows the tradition and creativity. Whether it is the tangy chaat of Delhi in the north or the creamy coconut chutneys of the south, every bite is a burst of spice and flavor, offering a taste of India's incredible diversity.

Top Must-Try Dishes in India

From north to south, India's cuisine is diverse and unique in every region and city. Whether it is Delhi's Chaat (savory snack mix), Agra's Paratha (flaky flatbread), Mumbai's Vada Pav (India's burger), Kolkata's Kathi Rolls (stuffed wraps), or Hyderabad's Biryani (spiced rice), the variety is endless. While it is impossible to try them all during a short trip, I've put together a Must-Try List to help you choose the best dishes to savor along the way.

Must-Try Indian Food Guide

Masala Chai

A steaming cup of masala chai is undoubtedly the best way to awaken your taste buds to India's flavors. My first experience with masala chai was during a cooking class in Delhi. The host took us to a local market to explore spices - there were so many that I couldn't remember all their names. But I will never forget the ones used to brew this tea: ginger, cinnamon, clove, cardamom, and black pepper. The rich, layered aromas, simmered together with creamy milk, revealed just how masterfully Indian people use spices to create something so comforting and flavorful.

Garlic Naan

I remember a friend on our trip who wasn't a fan of curry. Every meal, we'd order garlic naan, and it pretty much carried her through our entire 10-day journey in India. I can confidently say it is a foolproof choice. If you are a carb lover, this bread is made for you. Be sure to eat garlic naan while it is hot since it is soft yet chewy, with the perfect blend of garlic and cilantro aromas. Personally, I love pairing it with different curries for the ultimate flavor combination.

Butter Chicken

Butter chicken is actually a type of Indian curry. Its sauce is rich and creamy, with the subtle aroma of onions and the sweet tang of tomatoes. The chicken is marinated in yogurt, lemon juice, and spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala, then grilled or pan-seared for a smoky depth. It pairs perfectly with Indian fragrant basmati rice or naan, making it an ideal choice for anyone trying Indian curry for the first time.

Tandoori Chicken

If you are sitting at a restaurant and unsure what to order, tandoori chicken is always a safe choice. A good tandoori chicken is crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, served with a squeeze of lemon and a side of fresh chutney. The marinade typically includes a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, garam masala (a mixed spice), and a touch of red chili for heat, along with lemon juice for tanginess.

The chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices before being cooked in a tandoor oven, giving it a unique smoky flavor and a crispy, charred exterior.

Biryani

Biryani is a fragrant rice dish made with basmati rice, marinated meat (chicken, mutton, or beef), and a blend of aromatic spices like saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. The meat is slow-cooked with yogurt and spices, then put the cooked rice on the top and cooked together to allow the flavors to meld. Biryani often garnished with fried onions, boiled eggs, and fresh herbs, and it captures the essence of Indian cuisine. Try it, and it will definitely be one of your favorites.

Indian Chicken Biryani

Mango Lassi

When the weather is hot, a glass of mango lassi is incredibly refreshing. This drink is perfect for those with a sweet tooth, usually made with mango, yogurt, and sugar, and sometimes flavored with spices. The sweetness can vary from place to place. Although it is one of the most popular drinks in India, I recommend avoiding roadside stalls for it, as they often use ice. Instead, try it at a restaurant or a cleaner beverage shop.

Pani Puri

Pani Puri is not just food. It is a fun, interactive snack that captures the lively spirit of Indian street food culture. When you pop one into your mouth, the burst of flavors -refreshing, spicy, and sour - will dance on your taste buds.

Indian Street Food Pani Puri

Crispy hollow round balls (puri) are filled with mashed potatoes, onions, tomatoes, chickpeas, then topped with a tangy green soup (pani). I tried this at a street food stall during the Delhi Food Walking Tour with my local guide. I didn't add the sour soup when eating my pani puri. I just added the vegetable stuff and tamarind chutney, and it was already delicious.

Dosa

Dosa is a thin, crispy pancake made from fermented rice and urad dal (lentils), offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. This iconic South Indian dish is often served with a variety of flavorful chutneys and sambar, a spiced lentil soup. Whether plain or stuffed with spicy potato filling, you can expect a light yet savory experience with the dosa's delicate texture, complemented by the tangy, spicy dips.

Samosa

This is another snack made with mashed potatoes. Often considered the soul food of India, samosas are the perfect snack to enjoy with your friends or as part of a larger meal. It is a golden, crispy pastry filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat, often served with tangy tamarind or mint chutney. The irresistible crunch and warm, spiced center make it a must-try for anyone craving authentic Indian street food.

Gulab Jaamun

Gulab jamun is a delectable dessert made from deep-fried dough balls soaked in fragrant, rose-scented syrup. These soft, melt-in-your-mouth treats are golden brown on the outside and soaked with sweetness on the inside. With a hint of cardamom and saffron, gulab jamun is rich, indulgent, and perfect for ending a meal on a sweet note. Often served warm, this beloved dessert will satisfy any sweet tooth and is a true celebration of Indian culinary tradition.

How to Enjoy Indian Food With Confidence

Avoid Raw Food and Ice

Stick to cooked food, like fried items or grilled dishes. Be cautious with drinks, avoid handmade juices or ice by the streets, and opt for bottled or hot beverages.

Take Precautions in Advance

Take probiotics a few days before your trip to help your stomach adjust. Carry hygiene essentials like portable utensils, disinfectant wipes, or hand sanitizer, and always wash your hands before eating.

Be Cautious When Choosing Street Food Stalls

Look for busy stalls with long lines, as they tend to have fresh, popular food. And try just one new dish at one time to avoid 'Delhi belly'. Also, check if the stall is clean and if the vendor uses gloves or tongs to handle food. Skip high-risk foods like dairy and seafood, especially in hot areas, as they spoil quickly.

Suggestions for Staying Safe Without Missing the Fun

In the Golden Triangle area, there are some of the best food experiences in India, including Food Walking Tours and Cooking Classes. If you are curious about street food but worried about missing out by only trying one type at a time for safety consideration, I recommend walking tour with a local guide. A Food Walking Tour ensures you are eating safely at clean, well-curated stalls, it is truly a perfect blend of food and adventure.

For those like me, who are not only into street food but also fascinated by Indian cuisine, a cooking class is a must. Start by exploring the local markets to discover spices and ingredients, then learn to make famous Indian dishes at a local home. Trust me, making naan is one of the most fun parts!

You can share your thought and book the food experiences with Odynovo through the tour packages as below:

Take a Culinary Adventure With Odynovo

Feeling more confident to try Indian cuisine now? From street food to fine dining and even hands-on experiences, just write to Odynovo and leave your interests via [email protected], and we'll handle the rest! You just be ready to embrace the chaos, relish the flavors, and let India's streets tell their story.