The 78th Independence Day falls on the 15th of August 2024, and this year, the country is geared up for the whole celebration in memory of that rich history and immense cultural diversity. This is a great opportunity to indulge in the varieties of flavours from different regions that make this country truly special.
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All the eight Union territories of India present their own culture, which is unique and different from one another, and celebrate the delightful array of traditional classic dishes showcasing their culinary heritage. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands present an aspect of freshness that is not matched elsewhere, while the flavours of Jammu and Kashmir are captivating and aromatic. These stories are, indeed, not simple meals as they each speak volumes about tradition, community, and history.
Famous Dishes Of 8 Union Territories
Andaman And Nicobar Islands - Fish Curry
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are surrounded by the immense Indian Ocean, and its cuisine is famous for its fresh seafood dishes. Among all of them, fish curry stands out as a must-try dish. This dish is achieved when locally sourced fish, like brill, is combined with a blend of spices and then cooked with onions, tomatoes and a fusion of spices that gives a rich, tangy flavour to the dish. The Fish curry goes best when paired with rice, and this is one of the try dishes from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
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Chandigarh - Butter Chicken
One of Chandigarh's most famous dishes is butter chicken. It is also known as Murgh Makhani, which is absolutely an iconic dish of this union territory. This dish originated in the kitchens of the renowned Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi, and sometimes, it became a staple in Chandigarh's culinary heritage. In butter chicken, the tender pieces of chicken are perfectly complemented by creamy tomato-based gravy, infused spices, and fortified butter. It is served with naan and rice.
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Dadra And Nagar Haveli And Daman And Diu - Ubadiyu
Ubadiyu is the classic dish of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. It is mostly eaten in the winter, making it a perfect seasonal dish. Ubadiyu is the delectable mix of vegetables and beans slowly cooked in an earthen pot, sealed with dough and buried in hot coals, allowing the ingredients to cook in their juices. Ubadiyu is a special dish which shows the rural traditions and agricultural roots of this Union Territory.
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Lakshadweep - Mus Kavaab
A South India special fish curry. Mus Kavaab is one of the sought-after delicacies of Lakshadweep Island. It is prepared from boneless fish - mus, which is then marinated with a paste made from coconut, turmeric, chilli powder, coriander powder, cardamoms and cloves. After that, these chunks are cooked along with onions and tomato and tossed with curry leaves.
Puducherry - Mutton Samosa
Mutton Samosas are a famous dish in Puducherry, which offers a spicy twist to the classic Indian snack. It is Stuffed with a mixture of minced mutton and various spices. These triangular pastries are deep-fried to perfection and served to people piping hot. The result is a crispy exterior giving way to a flavourful and spicy filling, making mutton samosas a popular street food choice for tourists.
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Jammu And Kashmir - Rogan Josh
The term "Rogan Josh" is derived from the words "Rogan," which refers to clarified butter or oil, and "josh," which represents passion or heat. Thought to have Persian origins, this lamb curry is closely associated with Kashmir and tempts the senses with its fiery red sauce and tender meat. A delectable blend of caramelised onions, aromatic garlic, smooth yoghurt, sharp ginger, and other fragrant herbs and spices go into making this stew.
Ladakh - Thukpa
Thukpa is the staple dish and a hearty noodle soup, which is a well-known dish from Ladakh. It is made with hand-pulled noodles, vegetables, and meat, which are the key ingredients, and is seasoned with local spices and herbs, making it a warm and comforting meal for the Ladakh region, especially during the cold winter months.
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Delhi - Chole Bhature
Delhi, a food lover paradise, is famous for its street food, one of which is chole bhature. This dish is the favourite among locals and tourists due to the delectable combination of flavourful chole and soft, fluffy bhature.