If you are Indian and have grown up in this nation of diversities, then the idea that “India is the melting pot” for global cultures and cuisines has probably been drilled into your head since childhood. Yes, in a way, India has always been an attractive land for conquerors and many settlers have found refuge here over the centuries, making this Asian subcontinental nation a true melting pot indeed. And the result, when it comes to food, has been truly amazing to witness.
As India became home to people from cultures around the world, their food and ours became the best of friends. It wasn’t the easiest of journeys, but no matter how different our origins, once in India, most cuisines and cultures found ways to integrate and create new culinary gems that are now not only popular in India, but the entire world. On Friendship Day 2023, let us celebrate these incredible global cuisines that have, over the centuries, become best friends with Indian cuisines and food culture.
Video Credit: YouTube/Asha In Kitchen
1. Persian Cuisine
The Mughal Empire's rule in India from the 16th to the 18th century brought Persian influences to Indian cooking. This led to the introduction of aromatic spices, rich sauces, and elaborate dishes like biryani (with or without meat, and even with jackfruit now) and kebabs (grilled skewered meat, which we have now turned into vegetarian and even vegan delights). The Mughals also popularized pilaf, a seasoned rice dish which we now enjoy as pulao, and incorporated elements of Iranian culinary techniques, resulting in a fusion of flavors that became an integral part of Indian cuisine.
2. Central Asian Cuisine
With the arrival of Turkic and Afghan rulers in India, Central Asian culinary influences entered the Indian kitchen. This gave rise to iconic dishes such as samosas, a delightful snack with spiced fillings enclosed in a crispy pastry, and naan, a leavened, oven-baked flatbread that complements Indian curries. Of course, no both samosas and naans have become vessels for other cuisines, like Chinese and Italian, to be integrated within Indian cuisine—thanks to pizza samosas and chowmein samosas. The rich and flavorful korma, a meat or vegetable stew cooked with yogurt and nuts, also reflects the influence of Central Asian cooking styles.
3. Portuguese Cuisine
The Portuguese presence in India during the 15th century significantly impacted Indian cuisine, especially Goan and Konkani cuisines as we know them today. They introduced ingredients like tomatoes, potatoes, and chili peppers to the subcontinent. These new additions revolutionized Indian cooking, leading to the creation of dishes such as the tangy and spicy vindaloo (originally "vinha d'alhos"), which is now synonymous with Goan cuisine. And let’s not forget how the humble potato made its way all over India to become a staple.
4. Chinese Cuisine
Chinese traders and immigrants introduced their culinary practices to India, giving rise to Indo-Chinese cuisine. This fusion combines Chinese stir-frying techniques with Indian spices and flavors. Popular dishes include Gobi Manchurian and Hakka noodles, both widely enjoyed as street food across the country. While large parts of Kolkata and Mumbai Chinese cuisines are still considered more “authentic”, others like Chinjabi have also emerged.
5. Jewish Cuisine
The influence of Jewish cuisine on Indian culinary landscape and culture can be traced back to the arrival of Jewish communities in India centuries ago. Jewish settlers, including the Bene Israel and Baghdadi Jews, brought their culinary traditions, which integrated with local flavors and techniques. Their dishes, such as Baghdadi Jewish biryani and various spice-infused stews, have become part of India's diverse gastronomy. Additionally, Jewish-Indian fusion foods like Kerala's matzah bread showcase the amalgamation of Jewish and Indian cooking styles.
6. Tibetan Cuisine
Tibetan refugees brought their culinary heritage to India, impacting regions near the Himalayas. Momos became popular street food, available in various fillings, and thukpas and other noodle soups enriched with Indian spices, are now cherished comfort foods. Of course, now momos are also vessels for crazy Indian experiments, leading to dishes like tandoori momos and Schezuan momos too. The blending of Tibetan and Indian flavors showcases a unique cross-cultural culinary experience.
7. Italian Cuisine
Italian culinary influences found their way to India through historical trade and colonization. But more recently, the Italian dish that changes the Indian culinary landscape was the pizza, which is now made with curry toppings in all their glory. Additionally, pasta made its way into the Indian culinary landscape, leading to the fusion of Italian and Indian flavors in dishes like "desi" pasta and baked pasta dishes with Indian spices.
8. Japanese Cuisine
While not as pervasive as some other influences, Japanese cuisine has made its mark on Indian shores in the last two decades. Sushi bars and Japanese restaurants have gained popularity in metropolitan areas, and elements of Japanese cooking, such as using seaweed and soy sauce, have been incorporated into modern Indian cuisine. The concept of sushi rolls has also inspired innovative adaptations using Indian ingredients and flavors, creating the much-loved veg sushi varieties now available everywhere.
9. Korean Cuisine
Korean culinary influence on Indian food is still relatively niche, but it has started to gain traction in certain circles. Korean flavors, such as kimchi and gochujang, have been incorporated into fusion dishes like kimchi dosas and kimchi biryani. The unique combination of Korean spice profiles with Indian ingredients showcases the potential for exciting cross-cultural gastronomic experiences.
10. American Cuisine
American influence on Indian cuisine has been particularly prominent in urban areas and among the younger generation. The spread of fast food chains and restaurants serving American dishes has led to the integration of certain elements into Indian cooking. For example, burgers, subs, and sandwiches are now widely enjoyed across India, often with unique Indian twists and flavors. Additionally, the popularity of American-style desserts like brownies, cupcakes, and cheesecakes has grown, with Indian bakers infusing local ingredients and tastes into these treats.