Food is an integral part of Indian culture, and Indian cuisine is a clear portrayal of the country’s rich traditions and culinary history. Known for its rich and complex flavors, Indian food has the goodness of spices, herbs, and ingredients that create a unique and memorable taste experience. It wouldn’t be wrong to say that Indian cuisine is deeply connected to the culture and traditions of India. It provides a sense of cultural identity and a way to stay connected to one's heritage, even when living far from home.
Indian food is incredibly diverse, with regional specialties and a wide range of dishes. People miss the opportunity to explore this diversity when living in a place with limited access to Indian restaurants and ingredients. For those who have Indian roots or have spent time in India, the food is closely tied to memories of family gatherings, celebrations, and childhood meals. The taste of Indian dishes can evoke feelings of nostalgia and homesickness. While Indian restaurants may exist abroad, some individuals may miss the authenticity and quality of dishes prepared by skilled home cooks or in local eateries in India.
Video credits: Joshua Weissman
So, if you are in the USA for work, study, or vacation and craving Indian food, here are 6 Indian dishes that are popular in the USA. Have a look:
Tandoori Chicken
Tandoori chicken is a scrumptious dish popular not just in India but also in the USA. It has juicy chicken pieces marinated in yogurt and a blend of spices, then cooked in a clay oven or tandoor. It's known for its smoky flavour and tender texture. Most of the North Indian restaurants across the USA have this dish on their menu.
Rogan Josh
Rogan Josh is a staple dish in Kashmiri cuisine and a key part of the highly regarded wazwan. The dish's striking crimson hue is because of the Kashmiri dry red chilies and an array of spices, which is a perfect amalgamation of Persian and Indian culinary traditions. This is yet another popular dish in the USA.
Malai Kofta
Malai kofta is a popular Indian dish known for its rich and buttery texture. While “malai” is the heavy and rich gravy, “kofta” refers to fried dumplings made with paneer, potato, and an array of spices. The dumplings are fried and cooked in a creamy gravy of nuts, onions, tomatoes, and other ingredients.
Biryani
Well, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that biryani has lovers abroad too. It is a flavourful and fragrant rice dish cooked with aromatic spices, herbs, and either chicken, lamb, or vegetables, and most importantly, utmost love and patience. It's a hearty and satisfying meal and can satisfy your cravings. Many Indian restaurants in the USA serve this scrumptious rice dish.
Butter Chicken
Who doesn’t like butter chicken? Butter chicken is a creamy and indulgent curry made with tender pieces of chicken simmered in a rich tomato and butter sauce. It's often served with naan or rice and is very popular in the USA. One can find butter chicken in every other North Indian restaurant in the USA.
Chana Masala
Chana masala is a vegetarian dish made with chana or chickpeas cooked in a flavourful tomato-based gravy with different herbs and spices. This is one of the most popular Indian dishes in the USA and is especially a favorite of vegetarians and vegans. It goes well with chapati, rice, kulcha or naan.