If you love nothing more than authentic Indian cuisine, it’s worth knowing where your favourite dishes originate from. Good Indian food has evolved over the years and as India is a hugely diverse country, each state has its own unique culture, traditions and cuisines. So with this in mind, here are some signature dishes from various Indian states.
Goa – Fish Curry
India has a large stretch of coastline. And with Goa located by the sea, it’s perhaps no surprise that fish curry is a popular dish in this state. While there are many varieties of this Goan staple available, traditional fish curries tend to be made from coconut milk (or freshly ground coconut), a range of common curry spices (include masala mix) and something to give a distinct slight sourness, usually tamarind but it can also be vinegar.
Maharashtra (Mumbai) – Pav Bhaji
Originating from the capital city of Maharashtra (Mumbai), Pav Bhaji is a street food dish consisting of a thick vegetable curry and served with a soft bread roll. Bhaji is loaded with potatoes, cauliflower, carrots and onions and is blended with bhaji masala and a mix of spices that are designed to make the dish a little fiery.
Punjab – Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, originated from the Punjab and is so delicious that it’s become a popular Indian staple worldwide. Legend has it that a Punjabi chef living in New Delhi was experimenting with butter-fried chicken and came up with something so mouth-watering that he decided to give it a name – Murgh Makhani – or buttery chicken. The chicken is marinated in spices and yoghurt before being cooked with tomatoes, green chillis and onions. Butter chicken is a great choice for anyone who likes their curries on the milder side.
Gujarat – Dhokla
Nestled along the Western coast of India, Gujarat is a state well known for a healthy and high-protein snack known as Dhokla. This is a savoury cake made from a ground, fermented batter of rice and lentils, which is steamed to get a fluffy texture. Dhokla is typically served with deep fried chillies and coriander chutney. It’s garnished with fresh coriander and/or grated coconut.
Tamil Nadu – Chettinad Chicken Curry and Dosai
Not only is Tamil Nadu one of the loveliest and most fascinating places to visit in India thanks to its superb beaches, wildlife sanctuaries and temples, but it’s also renowned for its delicious dishes. This includes Chettinad Chicken Curry, made from chicken, fresh ground spices and herbs. Dosai is also a popular regional recipe. This fermented crepe is made from rice batter and black lentils.
If you’re looking for ‘authentic Indian cuisine near me,’ visit Little India in South Kensington. Our restaurant offers a host of Indian starters, mains and sides as well as exciting chef specials that are sure to tingle your taste buds. Book a table today or order a takeaway and enjoy some of the best Indian cuisine that London has to offer.
