Even if you are a self-proclaimed lover of Indian
cuisine, the menu of the sub-continent is so diverse, there are bound to be
certain regional specialities that tickle your tastebuds more than others. From
the flame-grilled meats of the Punjab to the coconut curries of Kerala, each
state offers its own signature dishes and preferred ingredients and cooking
techniques.
Indian cuisine is an amalgamation of the food of
countless different cultures and ethnicities as opposed to simply offering a
one-trick pony menu - also known as the typical Anglicised curry house menu
here in the UK.
So, without further ado, let us begin on a foodie
tour of India, exploring five regional specialities along the way…
Bebinca - the traditional sweet of Goa
The tiny western state of Goa might be renowned
for its spicy curries and seafood stews, but one of the crowning achievements
of Goan cuisine has to be bebinca, the sumptuous traditional sweet of the
state. A painstakingly layered cake, this dessert can be time-consuming to
prepare so is generally saved for special occasions such as weddings, holidays
and festivals.
Khandvi - super snack of Gujarat
Gujarat is renowned for its delectable vegetarian
offerings and khandvi is the state’s go-to vegetarian-friendly snack when hunger
strikes and you’re on the move. A mouth-watering mix of yoghurt and gram flour,
this snack is flavoured with an aromatic smattering of mustard and sesame
seeds. Ginger, turmeric, coconut and green chillies top off this flavoursome
dish, making khandvi a firm favourite in the hearts of both the Gujarati old
and young.
Kalaadi - the famous cheese of Kashmir
More of a product than a dish, kalaadi is
nevertheless one of the most famous exports of Kashmir. It is created from
cow’s milk unlike the buffalo cheeses that are so prevalent in other parts of
the sub-continent and is produced in the hills dotted around the state. Kalaadi
is typically fried, salted and eaten with tomatoes as a snack in Kashmir.
Irachi Ishtu - the breakfast stew of Kerala
Golden Kerala with its sandy stretches of
coastline and swaying coconut trees is one of the most popular destinations for
visitors to India. The cuisine is one of its greatest attractions, though it is
usually the seafood dishes that garner the greatest attention. However, irachi
ishtu is a popular breakfast stew made with chicken or mutton and plenty of
herbs, spices, vegetables and the velvety notes of coconut milk.
Thalipeeth - the pancake of Maharashtra
Breads are one of the most important staple foods
in India and each region has its favourite recipes. Thalipeeth is a flatbread
found on the streets of Maharashtra and consists not just of flour sourced from
grains and pulses but a flavoursome spread of ingredients including cumin,
coriander and chopped onions. Thalipeeth is often served with a scoop of thick
buffalo cream and is one of the signature snacks of Maharashtra.
Sample some of the best authentic Indian food in
the UK at one of London’s best Indian fine dining restaurants - book your table today.
