Indian cuisine is a feast for the senses—vibrant colours, aromatic spices, and various textures come together to create dishes that are loved worldwide. Whether you're savouring a creamy curry, biting into a crispy snack, or indulging in a fragrant rice dish, Indian food never fails to leave a lasting impression.
From street food to fine dining, Indian dishes have grown all over the world, and they are making their way to cuisine in restaurants across the globe. If you are wondering which food has won people's hearts (and taste), here is a list of 10 Traditional Indian Dishes that are loved across the globe.
1. Chicken Tikka Masala – The Dish That Became a Global Sensation
Chicken Tikka Masala is one of the most popular Indian dishes worldwide. Due to its massive popularity in the UK, it is often mistaken as a British creation. This dish consists of grilled, marinated chicken pieces cooked in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices. The chicken's slight smokiness and tangy, mildly spiced gravy make it a favourite among Indian food lovers.
Served with naan or basmati rice, Chicken Tikka Masala is a comfort dish that brings warmth with every bite. It's so famous in Britain that some even consider it a national dish!
2. Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) – The Creamy Delight
Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is another beloved Indian dish with a global fanbase. Originating from Delhi, it was accidentally created in the kitchens of the legendary Moti Mahal restaurant, where leftover tandoori chicken was cooked in a buttery tomato gravy.
The result? A rich, creamy, and slightly sweet curry that perfectly complements naan or rice. Its luxurious texture and balanced flavours make it an irresistible dish for anyone trying Indian food for the first time.
3. Biryani – A Feast in Every Bite
Biryani is more than just a dish; it celebrates flavours, aromas, and traditions. This fragrant rice dish is made by layering long-grain basmati rice with marinated meat (chicken, mutton, or even fish), slow-cooked with a mix of cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and saffron.
With regional variations like Hyderabadi, Lucknowi, and Kolkata Biryani, each style brings a unique twist to this classic dish. Biryani is a global favourite because it delivers an explosion of taste in every mouthful.
4. Samosa – The Irresistible Street Snack
A crispy, golden-brown triangular pastry filled with a spiced mixture of potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat, the samosa is an iconic Indian snack. Found in Indian restaurants and street stalls worldwide, this savoury delight is often served with tamarind or mint chutney.
Samosas, with their crunchy exterior and flavorful filling, are the perfect appetizer or teatime snack. Whether you're enjoying them on the streets of Mumbai or at a café in London, they never disappoint.
5. Tandoori Chicken – The Smoky Grilled Goodness
Tandoori Chicken is one of India's most famous grilled dishes, loved for its deep, smoky flavour. It is prepared by marinating chicken in a blend of yoghurt, lemon juice, and spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala before being cooked in a traditional clay oven called a tandoor.
The result is a dish with a slightly charred yet juicy texture, served with onion rings and a squeeze of lemon. Tandoori Chicken is not just an Indian favourite—it has inspired dishes like Chicken Tikka and Tandoori Kebabs across various international cuisines.
6. Dal Makhani – The Ultimate Comfort Food
Dal Makhani is a rich and creamy lentil dish made from black lentils (urad dal) and kidney beans slow-cooked with butter, cream, and aromatic spices. A staple in North Indian households, it has gained global recognition for its comforting and earthy flavours.
Dal Makhani is commonly paired with naan or jeera rice, making it a simple yet indulgent meal. If you're looking for a vegetarian dish that doesn't compromise on taste, it's a must-try!
7. Paneer Tikka – The Vegetarian Alternative to Tandoori Chicken
For vegetarians who crave the flavours of Tandoori Chicken, Paneer Tikka is a perfect choice. It features cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) marinated in yoghurt, spices, and lemon juice, then grilled or baked to perfection.
With a smoky and slightly charred exterior but a soft and creamy inside, Paneer Tikka is loved in India and vegetarian-friendly restaurants worldwide. It's commonly served as an appetizer with mint chutney.
8. Chole Bhature – The King of Indian Breakfasts
Chole Bhature is a North Indian delicacy that has won hearts far beyond India. It consists of chole (spicy chickpea curry) paired with bhature (deep-fried, fluffy bread). The pungent, tangy, and slightly sweet flavours make it an indulgent meal, often enjoyed for breakfast or brunch.
Served with pickles, onions, and a glass of sweet lassi, this dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser!
9. Dosa – The South Indian Crepe
Dosa is a crispy, golden-brown crepe from fermented rice and lentil batter. It originates from South India but has become popular worldwide due to its light yet satisfying nature.
Dosas are often stuffed with a spicy potato filling (Masala Dosa) and served with coconut chutney and sambar (a tangy lentil-based stew). They are gluten-free, delicious, and perfect for breakfast or a light meal.
10. Rogan Josh – The Rich Kashmiri Curry
Rogan Josh is a Kashmiri speciality known for its deep red colour and bold flavours. Traditionally made with tender lamb or mutton, this dish is slow-cooked with spices, including Kashmiri red chilli, cardamom, and cinnamon.
The slow-cooking method ensures the meat is incredibly tender. At the same time, the flavorful gravy makes it a perfect pairing with rice or naan. Its rich and aromatic taste has made it a favourite in Indian restaurants worldwide.
Final Thoughts
Indian cuisine is incredibly diverse, ranging from spicy and tangy to creamy and mild. These 10 dishes are just a glimpse of what Indian food offers, but they've undoubtedly left their mark worldwide.
Whether you're new to Indian cuisine or already a fan, these dishes are a must-try. From the smoky flavours of Tandoori Chicken to the comforting warmth of Dal Makhani, Indian food is an experience that keeps people coming back for more.
