There are dozens of Indian dishes out there that will make your mouth water and your taste buds sing with joy. While most Americans are familiar with popular dishes such as chicken tikka masala or butter chicken, there are many others that remain under the radar but are equally delicious. To help spread the word, here is a list of underrated Indian foods that deserve more attention from Americans looking to spice up their diets.
Underrated Indian Foods You Should Know About
Litti Chokha
Litti Chokha is a traditional Indian dish made from rice and lentil stew. The rice balls are filled with the dal and then served with a side of spicy chutney, curd, and pickles.
It originates from the state of Bihar in India, where it’s one of the most popular dishes to eat at special occasions or festivals like Krishna Janmashtami. The name comes from its appearance, as if it were made into small clay pots (litti), which you would use to cook over an open fire or in a pit on your stove.
Many food van business cooks are talented in preparing Litti Chokha, and everyone should try this dish when you have a chance to visit India.
Gajar Ka Halwa
Gajar ka halwa is a traditional Punjabi dessert made with carrots and sugar. It consists of cooked carrots that are blended into a paste, which is then cooked further in ghee (clarified butter), milk, and nuts. This dish can be eaten at many sweet business stalls as it is or served with ice cream or hard-boiled eggs.
Mirchi Bada
Mirchi Bada is a deep-fried spicy potato snack. It’s usually served with mirchi ka salan or habañero chutney. These balls are made using boiled potatoes and then dipped in a batter of rice flour, maida, and besan (chickpea flour). The balls are deep-fried in hot oil until golden brown on both sides. Mirchi bhajia has been popular for years and is one of those dishes that you can find almost everywhere in India.
Dal Baati Choorma
Dal Baati Choorma is a vegetarian Indian dish that consists of yellow lentils (dal), roasted bread known as baati, and a spicy yoghurt paste (chhoorma). The dal is cooked with spices, then mashed and mixed with chopped onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and garam masala. As per Chef Online’s experts, “It’s usually eaten on the side but can also be added to the dal balls or poured over the top when served.”
Keema Pav
Keema pav, a popular street food in India, is a spicy minced meat dish that’s served in a soft bun. It’s usually made with minced meat, onions, and spices like garlic and cumin. The keema pav served at this restaurant has ground lamb mixed with tomatoes and cream sauce. It’s topped with melted cheese, lettuce and tomato—and served with a side of pickle and salad.
Dhokla
Dhokla is a popular Gujarati dish that’s made from fermented rice and lentils. This vegetarian snack is typically served as an appetizer or side dish, but it can also be used in a variety of recipes to add some protein and fiber to your meals. It’s most often served with chutney and pickles, but you could top it with yoghurt for a healthier option.
There are many more underrated foods from the street food business in India that you might not have tried. Google “Indian take out near me” to find restaurants that serve these. If you’re looking for something new to try, consider these dishes and give them a try!