8 Mouthwatering Indian Foods You Need to Try ASAP

Key Point:

Eight Featured Indian Foods:

• Vegetable Samosas: Triangular fried pastries filled with spiced vegetables
• Chicken Seekh Kebabs: Skewered minced chicken with aromatic spices
• Mixed Pakoras: Crispy fritters made with various vegetables in chickpea flour batter
• Paneer Tikka: Marinated and grilled Indian cottage cheese
• Chicken Tikka: Marinated chicken pieces cooked in a tandoor
• Gulab Jamun: Sweet milk-solid balls soaked in rose-flavoured syrup
• Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani): Creamy, mild curry with tender chicken
• Biryani: Aromatic rice dish with multiple regional variations

Are you ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through India’s culinary landscape? Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavours as we explore 8 Mouthwatering Indian Foods You Need to Try ASAP! From crispy snacks to rich, aromatic curries, Indian cuisine offers a tantalizing array of dishes that will leave you craving more.

Join us as we take you on a gastronomic tour, starting with the irresistible Vegetable Samosas and ending with the fragrant Biryani. Along the way, we’ll explore tantalizing appetizers, succulent kebabs, creamy curries, and decadent desserts. And for those in Regina, Canada, we’ll reveal where you can savour these delectable dishes right in your backyard. Get ready to discover why Indian food has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of food lovers worldwide!

Vegetable Samosas

Vegetable samosas are a beloved triangular fried snack that originated in northern India. These savoury pastries are typically filled with a flavorful mixture of vegetables, including:

• Potatoes
  
• Peas
  
• Carrots
  
• Onions
  

The filling is seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices, creating a perfect balance of flavours. While vegetable samosas are the most common variety, other variations exist, featuring fillings such as meat, chicken, fish, or seafood.

Historical Significance

The name “samosa” derives from the Persian word “sanbosag,” meaning “crescent,” which reflects its historical shape. Over time, samosas have spread globally, particularly throughout South Asia, the Arabian Peninsula, and North Africa. In different regions, they may be known by various names, such as “sambousek” in Arabic or “samsa” in Central Asian languages.

Preparation and Cooking

To create the perfect vegetable samosa:

1. Prepare the dough using maida flour (refined wheat flour)
   
2. Sauté onions, spices, and vegetables for the filling
   
3. Shape the dough into cones and fill them.
   
4. Fry until golden brown.
   

For a healthier alternative, some prefer to bake their samosas instead of frying. This method still achieves a crispy texture while reducing oil content.

Serving Suggestions

Samosas are often served with various accompaniments, including:

• Yogurt
  
• Chutney (mint or tamarind)
  
• Ketchup
  

They pair exceptionally well with a hot cup of chai, making them a perfect snack for any time of day.

Now that we’ve explored the delicious world of vegetable samosas let’s move on to another mouthwatering Indian food: Chicken Seekh Kebabs. These flavorful skewered meat delicacies offer a different yet equally tantalizing experience for your taste buds.

Chicken Seekh Kebabs

Now that we’ve savoured the crispy delight of vegetable samosas, let’s sink our teeth into another mouthwatering Indian food favourite: Chicken Seekh Kebabs.

A Flavorful Journey from  to Plate

Chicken Seekh Kebabs are a beloved dish characterized by skewered meat sausages, traditionally cooked over a charcoal fire. These kebabs offer a perfect balance of flavours, allowing the accompanying chutneys and raitas to complement their savoury profile.

Key Ingredients and Preparation

To create authentic Chicken Seekh Kebabs, you’ll need:

• Ground chicken (or lean minced lamb for a traditional variation)
  
• Onions, garlic, and ginger
  
• Green chilli paste
  
• Spices: coriander, cumin, garam masala
  
• Fresh coriander (cilantro)
  
• Egg (for binding)
  

The preparation involves:

1. Toasting and grinding spices to enhance flavour
   
2. Mixing spices with ground meat
   
3. Kneading the mixture to achieve the desired texture
   
4. Shaping the kebabs around skewers
   

Cooking Methods and Tips

While grilling over hot coals is the preferred method for authenticity and flavour, these versatile kebabs can also be:

• Pan-fried
  
• Air-fried
  
• Baked
  

For tender, cohesive kebabs:

• Use fatty meat for moisture
  
• Dry ingredients thoroughly
  
• Ensure proper mixing to bind meat proteins.
  
• Refrigerate the mixture before shaping.
  

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Seekh Kebabs are best enjoyed with:

• Cooling cilantro-mint raita
  
• Warm naan or fragrant rice
  
• Pickled onions and kachumber salad
  
• Indian pickles for an extra kick
  

As we transition from these succulent kebabs, get ready to explore the crispy world of Mixed Pakoras, another irresistible Indian food that will tantalize your taste buds.

Mixed Pakoras

Now that we’ve savoured the succulent Chicken Seekh Kebabs, let’s dive into another irresistible Indian food that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds: Mixed Pakoras.

A Crispy Medley of Flavors

Mixed Pakoras are a beloved Indian food and appetizer that exemplify the rich culinary traditions of the subcontinent. These bite-sized fritters are a testament to the versatility and creativity of Indian cuisine, offering a delightful crunch with every bite.

The Art of Pakora-Making

To create these mouthwatering morsels:

1. Finely chop or grate a variety of vegetables, such as:
   
   • Onions
     
   • Potatoes
     
   • Cauliflower
     
   • Carrots
     
   • Spinach
     
2. Prepare a batter using chickpea flour (besan) mixed with water and a vibrant blend of spices, including:
   
   • Turmeric
     
   • Cumin
     
   • Coriander
     
   • Fenugreek
     
   • Chili powder
     
3. Coat the vegetables in the spiced batter.
   
4. Deep-fry the mixture in hot oil for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.
   

The result is a harmonious fusion of textures and flavours, with a crispy exterior giving way to a tender, flavorful interior.

A Versatile Snack for All Occasions

Mixed Pakoras are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They’re perfect as:

• A starter for your Indian feast
  
• Finger food for gatherings
  
• A satisfying snack to enjoy at home
  

What’s more, these fritters are naturally gluten-free and vegan, making them an inclusive option for various dietary preferences.

The Perfect Accompaniment

To elevate your Mixed Pakora experience, serve them with complementary dipping sauces such as:

• Refreshing Minted Yogurt Sauce
  
• Zesty Coriander Mint Chutney
  

These cooling sauces provide a delightful contrast to the spices in the pakoras, creating a balanced and unforgettable flavour profile.

As we move on from these crispy delights, get ready to explore another classic Indian food that’s sure to impress: Paneer Tikka. This vegetarian favourite showcases the versatility of Indian cuisine, offering a tantalizing grilled cheese experience that’s uniquely Indian.

Paneer Tikka

Now that we’ve savoured the crispy goodness of Mixed Pakoras let’s indulge in another mouthwatering North Indian dish: Paneer Tikka. This vegetarian appetizer is a true crowd-pleaser, featuring marinated chunks of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) grilled to perfection.

The Art of Marination

The secret to exceptional Paneer Tikka lies in its marination process. Here’s what makes it unique:

• Thick yogurt or hung curd forms the base
  
• A blend of aromatic spices, including:
  
  • Red chilli powder
    
  • Turmeric
    
  • Coriander powder
    
  • Garam masala
    

For the best results, marinate the paneer cubes and vegetables (like bell peppers and onions) for at least two hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the flavours to penetrate deeply, ensuring each bite is bursting with taste.

Grilling Techniques

While traditionally cooked in a Tandoor, Paneer Tikka can be prepared at home using various methods:

1. Oven grilling
   
2. Stovetop cooking
   
3. Air frying
   

Each technique can impart a unique flavour profile, with oven grilling coming closest to the authentic smoky taste of Tandoor-cooked Paneer Tikka.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Paneer Tikka experience:

• Brush with butter while grilling for added richness
  
• Serve with mint or coriander chutney.
  
• Sprinkle chaat masala and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
  

Variations to Try

For those looking to experiment, consider these delicious variations:

1. Hariyali Paneer Tikka: Infused with green herbs
   
2. Achari Paneer Tikka: Tangy and spicy pickle-flavoured marinade
   
3. Malai Paneer Tikka: Creamy and mild, perfect for those who prefer less heat
   

As we move from the vegetarian delight of Paneer Tikka, our culinary journey takes us to its non-vegetarian counterpart. Up next, we’ll explore the succulent and flavorful world of Chicken Tikka, where tender chunks of marinated chicken replace the paneer, offering a different yet equally tantalizing experience for meat lovers.

Chicken Tikka

Now that we’ve savoured the delightful Paneer Tikka, let’s turn our attention to another tandoori favourite that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds – Chicken Tikka.

A Tandoori Delight with a Rich History

Chicken Tikka is a beloved dish that originated in Northern India, where tikka kebabs were traditionally cooked in a tandoor. This flavorful creation has since evolved into a popular fusion dish, particularly associated with Indian cuisine. Unlike its creamy cousin, Butter Chicken, Chicken Tikka boasts a spicier profile and a chunky sauce made with chopped onions.

The Art of Marination

The secret to perfect Chicken Tikka lies in its marination process. Here’s what makes it unique:

• Double marination technique
  
• First marinade: Lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and salt
  
• Second marinade: Yogurt, spices, and optional cheese for added richness
  
• Marination time: 8 to 48 hours for optimal flavour absorption and tenderness
  

Cooking Methods

While traditionally cooked in a tandoor, there are several ways to prepare Chicken Tikka at home:

1. Grilling over charcoal
   
2. Using an oven
   
3. Air frying
   
4. Stovetop griddle cooking
   

For the best results, direct fire is preferred to achieve that signature smoky aroma and flavour.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Marinade

To create an authentic Chicken Tikka marinade, consider including:

• Acids: Lemon juice or yogurt for tenderizing
  
• Oils: For richness and moisture
  
• Flavour enhancers: Herbs, spices, garlic, and ginger
  
• Aromatics: Kasuri methi and chaat masala for authentic taste
  

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chicken Tikka with:

• Cilantro or mint chutney
  
• Various types of Indian bread
  
• Rice
  
• As a filling-in wraps
  

For an extra touch of indulgence, baste the chicken with melted ghee during cooking.

As we move from the smoky allure of Chicken Tikka, our culinary journey takes us to the sweet realm of Indian desserts. Next, we’ll delve into the syrupy delights of Gulab Jamun, a perfect way to round off your Indian feast.

Gulab Jamun

Now that we’ve savored the delectable Chicken Tikka let’s satisfy our sweet tooth with a beloved Indian dessert: Gulab Jamun.

A Sweet Symphony of Flavors

Gulab Jamun is a quintessential Indian sweet that graces festive occasions and celebrations. These soft, golden-brown balls are a testament to the rich culinary traditions of India. Made from milk solids or milk powder, these delightful treats are deep-fried to perfection and then soaked in a fragrant rose-flavoured sugar syrup.

The Art of Preparation

Creating the perfect Gulab Jamun requires precision and patience. Here’s a glimpse into the preparation process:

1. Dough making: Combine milk powder or khoya with flour, a leavening agent, and a touch of ghee.
   
2. Shaping: Form smooth, crack-free balls from the dough.
   
3. Frying: Deep-fry the balls in ghee or oil at a controlled temperature (350°F to 360°F).
   
4. Soaking: Immerse the fried balls in warm sugar syrup infused with cardamom and rose water.
   

Pro Tips for Perfect Gulab Jamun

To achieve melt-in-your-mouth Gulab Jamun:

• Ensure the dough is well-kneaded and free of cracks.
  
• Maintain the correct frying temperature to avoid burning or undercooking.
  
• Allow the fried balls to soak in the syrup for 1-3 hours for optimal flavour absorption.
  

Serving Suggestions

Gulab Jamun can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. For a modern twist, try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or garnished with chopped nuts and rose petals.

As we indulge in the sweet, syrupy goodness of Gulab Jamun, our taste buds are primed for the next culinary adventure. Moving from dessert back to the main course, we’ll explore the rich and creamy world of Butter Chicken, a dish that perfectly balances the sweetness we’ve just experienced with its savoury depth.

Butter Chicken

Now that we’ve satisfied our sweet tooth with the delectable Gulab Jamun let’s dive into a savoury sensation that’s become a global favourite: Butter Chicken.

A Creamy Delight: Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a beloved Indian dish that combines rich flavours with a milder spice profile, making it accessible to a wide range of palates. This popular curry has won hearts worldwide with its perfect balance of taste without overwhelming heat.

Key Ingredients

• Boneless chicken (breast or thighs)
  
• Butter
  
• Onion, garlic, and ginger
  
• Spices: garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and chilli powder
  
• Tomato sauce and paste
  
• Heavy cream
  

Preparation Method

1. Marinate the chicken with yogurt, ginger, garlic, and spices (ideally overnight for best results).
   
2. Brown the marinated chicken in oil or ghee.
   
3. Prepare the sauce by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger.
   
4. Add spices and tomato sauce, simmering to meld flavours.
   
5. Combine the chicken with the simmering sauce.
   
6. Finish with a generous dollop of butter and cream for added richness.
   

Serving Suggestions

Butter Chicken pairs perfectly with:

• Basmati rice
  
• Naan bread
  
• Brown rice or coconut rice for a healthier option
  

For a complete Indian feast, consider serving it alongside other dishes like mixed pakoras or vegetable samosas.

Customization and Dietary Adaptations

• Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing chilli powder.
  
• For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut milk for heavy cream.
  
• Use chicken thighs for a more succulent texture or breast for a leaner option.
  

Storage and Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container:

• Refrigerate for 3-5 days
  
• Freeze for up to three months.
  

When reheating, add a splash of water to maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency.

As we move from the creamy indulgence of Butter Chicken, our culinary journey through Indian cuisine continues. Next, we’ll explore the aromatic and flavorful world of Biryani, a dish that showcases the perfect harmony of spices and rice in Indian cooking.

Biryani

Now that we’ve savoured the rich and creamy delight of Butter Chicken let’s move on to another iconic dish that’s a true celebration of Indian flavours – Biryani.

A Fragrant Rice Dish Fit for Royalty

Biryani is a beloved rice dish that holds a special place in Indian cuisine. This aromatic and flavorful creation has its roots in royal kitchens, with each region adding its unique twist to the recipe. Here are some of the most popular types of biryani you should know about:

1. Hyderabadi Biryani: Originating from the royal kitchens of the Nizams, this biryani is known for its:
   
   • Marinated meats
     
   • Fragrant Basmati rice
     
   • Rich blend of spices
     
   • “Dum” cooking technique using a dough-sealed pot
     
2. Lucknowi (Awadhi) Biryani: Characterized by:
   
   • Persian-inspired cooking method
     
   • Separate cooking of meat and rice
     
   • Use of saffron and star anise
     
   • Subtle and delicate flavours
     
3. Kolkata Biryani: A unique variation featuring:
   
   • Addition of potatoes and boiled eggs
     
   • Aromatic rose water and saffron.
     
   • Influence from Awadhi cuisine
     
4. Malabar Biryani: A coastal delight is known for:
   
   • Use of Khyma rice
     
   • Local spices and coconut
     
   • Incorporation of cashews and raisins
     

Vegetarian and Regional Variations

Biryani isn’t just for meat lovers. There are delicious vegetarian options and regional specialties to explore:

• Tahari Biryani: A vegetarian delight with potatoes and traditional biryani spices
  
• Bombay Biryani: Features spicy fried potatoes and tangy flavours from plums and kewra water
  
• Chettinad Biryani: Rich in traditional spices and coconut milk
  
• Dindigul Biryani: Known for its dark colour and mild flavour, using free-range goat meat
  

Whether you prefer your biryani spicy or mild, with meat or vegetarian, there’s a version to suit every palate. The combination of aromatic rice, perfectly cooked proteins or vegetables, and a harmonious blend of spices makes biryani a true culinary masterpiece.

As we conclude our journey through these mouthwatering Indian dishes, you might be wondering where to find such delectable cuisine. In the next section, we’ll explore Little Nepal Cuisine, a restaurant serving the best Indian foods near you in Regina, Canada, where you can experience these flavours firsthand.

Little Nepal Cuisine: Serving the best Indian foods near you in Regina, Canada

Now that we’ve savoured the aromatic and flavorful Biryani, let’s explore where you can find these mouthwatering Indian dishes in Regina, Canada.

Little Nepal Cuisine: Your Gateway to Authentic Indian Flavors

If you’re craving the delectable Indian foods we’ve discussed, look no further than Little Nepal Cuisine in Regina. This restaurant stands out for its commitment to delivering authentic Indian flavours and warm hospitality. Whether you prefer to dine in, take out, or have your meal delivered, Little Nepal Cuisine has you covered.

Signature Dishes

Little Nepal Cuisine offers a tantalizing array of popular Indian dishes, including:

• Chicken Tikka: Marinated chicken roasted to perfection in a traditional clay oven
  
• Butter Chicken: Tender boneless chicken simmered in a rich, creamy butter sauce
  
• Channa Bhatura: A classic North Indian combination of fluffy fried bread and spiced chickpea curry
  
• Chicken Biryani: Fragrant rice dish with boneless chicken and aromatic saffron
  

Diverse Menu Options

The restaurant caters to various dietary preferences, offering:

• Gluten-free options
  
• Vegan-friendly dishes
  
• Vegetarian specialties like Vegetable Noodles and Vegetable Manchurian
  

Convenient Dining Experience

Little Nepal Cuisine ensures a seamless dining experience with:

• Online table reservations
  
• Easy ordering for takeout
  
• Delivery services
  

Special Offers and Events

While Little Nepal Cuisine doesn’t explicitly mention buffet options or party halls like some other Indian restaurants in Regina, they focus on providing an unforgettable dining experience. Their chefs blend traditional techniques with innovative flavours to create dishes that keep customers coming back for more.

By offering authentic Indian cuisine in a refined setting, Little Nepal Cuisine has established itself as a go-to destination for those seeking the rich and diverse flavours of India right here in Regina, Canada.

Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Indian food or new to this vibrant cuisine, these eight mouthwatering dishes are a perfect starting point for your culinary journey. For those in Regina, Canada, Little Nepal Cuisine offers an authentic taste of these delectable Indian foods. So why wait? Treat your taste buds to the rich, spice-infused world of Indian cuisine and discover your new favourite dish today!