Introduction
Indian cuisine is famous for its vibrant flavours. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a lifelong fan, there’s no denying the allure of a perfectly spiced curry, fluffy naan bread.
As you explore Indian food, you may wonder, “What are the most popular Indian dishes from best Indian restaurant?” or “What is the spiciest Indian food?” You might also find yourself asking, “What are traditional Indian foods to try?
In this blog, we’ll explore the 8 most mouthwatering Indian foods that you absolutely must try, including spicy curries, tender meats, and flavourful vegetarian dishes.
Butter Chicken – The Classic Favourite
One of the most popular Indian dishes, butter chicken (or murgh makhani) hails from North India and has become a global sensation. Creamy, buttery, and mildly spiced, butter chicken is a perfect introduction to Indian cuisine for beginners.
The rich, flavourful sauce combines tomatoes, cream, and a medley of spices, making it a comforting dish that pairs perfectly with naan bread or basmati rice.
Food Pairing: Butter chicken pairs perfectly with garlic naan or jeera rice for an indulgent meal. Learn more about our naan varieties to complete your meal.
Seafood Biryani – Fragrant Rice & Ocean Delights
If you’re a seafood lover, seafood biryani is a must-try. This variation of the classic biryani uses fresh, succulent fish or prawns layered with spiced rice, creating a fragrant, flavourful dish.
Each bite is a harmony of spices, seafood, and perfectly cooked basmati rice. The heat from green chilies and the aroma of saffron give this dish a unique twist on the traditional biryani.
Food Pairing: Seafood biryani is complemented beautifully by a cucumber salad or sweet lassi.
Lamb Rogan Josh – Rich, Fragrant Curry
Rogan Josh is a flavourful, aromatic curry from Kashmir. It is made with tender pieces of lamb or goat cooked in a mixture of spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon.
It’s a dish that perfectly represents the richness of Kashmiri cuisine.
Food Pairing: Pair with steamed basmati rice or naan for an elevated experience. Explore more about the flavours of Indian cuisine here.
Tandoori Fish – Smoky, Grilled Perfection
Tandoori fish is a flavourful seafood delicacy made by marinating fresh fish in a blend of aromatic spices, creamy yogurt, and zesty lemon juice. It is then traditionally roasted in a clay oven (tandoor), giving it a smoky aroma and a succulent, charred texture that enhances its rich taste..
Tandoori fish is a healthier option, as it’s grilled rather than fried, making it a light yet satisfying dish.
Fun Tip: To get the perfect smoky flavour, try to use cod or salmon, which hold up well in the tandoor and absorb the spices beautifully.
Food Pairing: Mint chutney or a side of onion salad are perfect accompaniments to tandoori fish.
Masala Lamb – A Spicy, Rich Feast
Masala lamb is a hearty, flavourful dish made from tender lamb pieces simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce. The spices like garam masala, cumin, and coriander give the lamb a rich, deep flavour that complements its tenderness.
Whether it’s made into a curry or dry-fried, masala lamb is perfect for meat lovers craving something spicy and savory.
Food Pairing: This dish goes wonderfully with naan or jeera rice.
Spinach Paneer Delight – A Creamy & Flavourful Classic
Spinach Paneer Delight is a rich and comforting Indian dish that blends tender paneer cubes with a velvety spinach-infused gravy.
Bursting with aromatic spices, this vibrant green curry strikes a perfect balance between creamy textures and earthy flavours.
Food Pairing: Serve with garlic naan to complement the creamy spinach curry.
Fish Curry – The Heart of Coastal India
The fish curry is a cornerstone of Indian coastal cuisine, particularly from regions like Goa and Kerala. Made with fresh, tender fish and a tangy coconut-based gravy, it’s a flavourful dish that brings out the best of the ocean.
The spices like turmeric, coriander, and curry leaves blend together to create a rich, aromatic sauce that perfectly complements the delicate fish.
Food Pairing: Pair the fish curry with steamed rice or appams (soft rice pancakes from Kerala). Explore our seafood options to see which works best.
Spiced Chickpea Curry with Fluffy Fried Bread
This North Indian delicacy brings together a bold and aromatic chickpea curry paired with light, airy fried bread. The chickpeas are slow-cooked with a fragrant mix of spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, creating a rich and flavourful gravy.
The deep-fried bread, golden and crispy on the outside yet soft within, perfectly complements the hearty curry. Often enjoyed as a satisfying comfort meal, this dish is a must-try for lovers of bold flavours and indulgent textures.
Food Pairing: A glass of sweet lassi balances out the spice perfectly.
From aromatic curries to flavorful tandoori specialties, each dish showcases the rich heritage and unique spices that define Indian cooking.
Whether you’re savouring a meal at a beloved local eatery or indulging in an exceptional dining experience at Ananda in Dublin, every bite offers a delightful fusion of taste and tradition, making it a truly unforgettable culinary journey.