Indian curries are renowned worldwide for their bold flavours, vibrant colours, and rich aromatic profiles. While popular curries like butter chicken, tikka masala, and rogan josh have gained international recognition, there exists a treasure trove of lesser-known curry varieties that often don't receive the recognition they truly deserve. These hidden gems encompass a vast array of regional specialties and culinary traditions from across India, showcasing the country's diverse culture and gastronomic heritage.
From the coastal regions of Kerala to the royal kitchens of Rajasthan, lesser-known Indian curries offer a delightful journey through a myriad of flavours. Tṣhese unsung curries provide a captivating glimpse into the diverse and exquisite tapestry of Indian cuisine. It's high time these lesser-known curries received the recognition they deserve, allowing food enthusiasts to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Indian flavours and appreciate the culinary heritage of this vibrant nation.
Here are seven lesser-known Indian gravies that will surprise and delight your palate.
1. Chettinad Kuzhambu:
Originating from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu, Chettinad Kuzhambu is a spicy and aromatic gravy that will awaken your senses. Made with a blend of roasted spices, onions, tomatoes, and coconut, this gravy is known for its fiery kick. It pairs perfectly with rice or crispy dosas, leaving you craving for more.
2. Dhaniya Murgh:
Dhaniya Murgh is a delightful Punjabi gravy that showcases the versatility of coriander (dhaniya) as a main ingredient. The dish features succulent chicken cooked in a vibrant green gravy made from fresh coriander, mint, yoghurt, and spices. The aromatic flavours and the tender chicken make this gravy a true crowd-pleaser.
3. Malvani Fish Curry:
Hailing from the coastal region of Maharashtra, Malvani Fish Curry offers a tantalising taste of the sea. This tangy and spicy curry is made with a medley of aromatic spices, coconut milk, tamarind, and fresh fish. The unique combination of flavours will transport you to the sandy shores of the Konkan coast.
4. Rogan Josh:
Originating from the beautiful valleys of Kashmir, Rogan Josh is a rich and aromatic lamb gravy that will leave you spellbound. The dish is characterised by its deep red colour and the perfect blend of spices like Kashmiri red chilli, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. The slow cooking process ensures the meat becomes tender and absorbs all the flavours, resulting in a truly heavenly experience.
5. Kolhapuri Vegetables:
Kolhapuri Vegetables is a spicy and flavoursome Maharashtrian gravy that will excite your taste buds. Made with a fiery mix of red chilies, onions, garlic, and a special Kolhapuri masala, this dish packs a punch. It is traditionally enjoyed with hot chapatis or bhakris, providing a burst of flavours with every bite.
6. Prawn Balchão:
Hailing from the sunny state of Goa, Prawn Balchão is a tangy and spicy gravy that will take you on a coastal adventure. This traditional Goan dish is made with a fiery blend of red chilies, vinegar, and spices. The prawns are marinated in this flavorful masala and then cooked to perfection, resulting in a dish that is both spicy and tangy.
7. Kathal Biryani Gravy:
For the vegetarians looking to explore unique Indian gravies, Kathal Biryani Gravy is a must-try. This gravy features tender jackfruit (kathal) cooked with fragrant spices and layered with aromatic rice, resulting in a flavorful combination. The slow cooking process allows the jackfruit to absorb the spices, creating a vegetarian delight that rivals its meat-based counterparts.
While curry may be the face of Indian cuisine, the lesser-known Indian gravies mentioned above offer a whole new world of flavours waiting to be discovered. From the fiery Chettinad Kuzhambu to the tangy Prawn Balchão, each of these gravies has a unique story to tell and an explosion of flavours to offer. So, step outside your curry comfort zone and embark on a culinary adventure through these hidden gems of Indian cuisine. Your taste buds will thank you!