Top 7 Gourmet Food Experiences to Try on Your Next Trip to India
India is a country with a diverse culture, with a myriad of different regional cuisines. This makes it the ideal place to try some of the world's best gourmet food experiences. From the rich and fragrant curries of the east to the fantastic street food of the north, Indian cuisine has something for everyone. Here are the top 7 gourmet food experiences to try on your next trip to India!
1. The Royal Mughal Feast
Experience the regal grandeur of the Mughal Empire with a lavish feast. Enjoy succulent kebabs, tandoors and biryani, prepared with aromatic spices and fresh local ingredients. You'll be treated to a feast for royalty, served with royalty-style hospitality. Try the much-loved Mughal dish of Nihari, with its intensely flavourful and incredibly tender beef. This is a culinary highlight of any trip to India!
2. Seafood in Goa
Head down south to the tropical paradise of Goa, where you'll find some of the best seafood in India. From light and crunchy prawns to the mellow flavour of the mussels, enjoy an abundance of fresh local seafood that is cooked to perfection. One of the main highlights are the range of delicious Goan curries. Try the fantastic Xacuti or the sweet-tangy Balchao made with coconut and tamarind!
3. Punjabi Tastes
Experience the authenticity of Punjabi fare, bursting with flavour and made with plenty of paneer (soft cheese)! From sweet and sour Kadaiya to the heavily spiced makki ki roti, Punjabi food offers plenty to savour. Try out dishes like the buttery Dal Makhani or the exquisite kulchas stuffed with paneer. The richly-spiced flavours of Punjabi food make it a popular cuisine all over the country.
4. Biryanis of the Deccan Plateau
Biryanis are a popular dish in India and the Deccan Plateau is an ideal place to sample them. There are many varieties available, each with its own distinct taste and ingredients. A typical Deccan biryani will include whole spices, fried onions and cashews. The spices are of the best quality and each area has its own unique blend. The slow cooking process makes for a very succulent and flavoursome result!
5. Gujarati Delights
Gujarat is known for its delicious vegetarian delights and Gujaratis love to indulge in some of the tastiest food. Try the classic Gujarati thal, which includes a variety of lentils and vegetables cooked together in a special blend of spices. The Sev Khamni is a unique Gujarati snack made with a special combination of chillies, mashed potatoes and spices. The combination is both spicy and flavourful, making for a truly unique taste experience.
6. Curries of South India
Simmering, aromatic and spicy! This is how all South Indian curries are. Start off your exploration of South Indian delicacies with a light and flavoursome coconut-based Sambhar. Then, fill up with the accompaniments such as the crispy Pakoras, the spicy dosa, the sweet Payasam and the traditional Idli. Try the famous Chettinad curry, which has a distinct flavour of coconut and curry leaves.
7. Street Food of India
No food exploration in India would be complete without tasting the street food delights. From chaat to gol gappe, there's something for everyone. Try out the variety of pakoras, including vegetable and cheese, or take on the chilli chaat challenge! If you have a sweet tooth, indulge in the creamy kulfis and the mouth-watering jalebi.
Each Indian city offers something unique in terms of street food specialties, so be sure to try out as many as you can!
India is a culinary heaven and these 7 experiences are just an insight into the fabulous range of flavourful dishes. You'll be sure to find even more hidden gems as you explore the many diverse regions and local food cultures. Be adventurous with your food choices during your trip to India and you'll be sure to be rewarded!