The unique flavors and one-of-a-kind dishes found in Indian cuisine are a culinary delight for those in search of the next great bite.
Finding a new restaurant or discovering a delicious dish is fun for many diners who look forward to trying something fresh during the work week or on the weekend.
Going out and ordering Italian and Mexican dishes are relatively common. Some, though, are not as familiar with the exotic flavors of India. Here you can learn a bit more information on ordering Indian food and the incredible ingredients in some of the most popular items on the menu.
Choosing the Right Restaurant
Today it is easier than ever to find customer feedback on everything from a tube of toothpaste to upscale vacation destinations. It is always a good first practice to look into Indian restaurants near you on search engines and to check out their social media pages. Diners will usually review their specific order. Seeing many compliments or complaints about a particular dish is a good indication of what to try or avoid.
Platforms like Facebook and especially Instagram will give you an excellent first glimpse of what the restaurant is offering and probably an idea of the entrees they are best at preparing.
One more tip, check out the delivery partners that the restaurant works with for discounts for first-time customers and a free appetizer or dessert with an order. This way, you not only get to try a new spot but also enjoy savings and try more of the menu at no cost!
Spice Levels
A typical first thought about Indian food is that it is very spicy. While some dishes are spicy hot, many restaurants will allow you to choose the heat level you are comfortable eating. If you are looking for mild Indian cuisine, look for appetizers and entrees that do not include mustard, fresh black pepper, chilis, or ginger. When you are craving some spice, ask your waitperson if they provide a sauce or recommend a drink to relieve your palate. For all the spice lovers out there, try one or two of these dishes the next time you order Indian food:
- Vindaloo – This zesty dish brings the spice level and heats up the appetite with its tangy curry. Some restaurants will let you choose your own protein. Shrimp, lamb, or chicken are all tasty options.
- Chicken 65 – A famous Indian dish to add to your food bucket list, Chicken 65 is known for its genuine flavor and as a spicy treat.
- Madras Curry – Chicken or lamb tomatoes, onions, and shredded coconut add to the blend of herbs and spices that make Madras Curry an Indian food favorite.
Vegetarian Friendly
Ordering Indian food that is vegetable based is easy and delicious. Many restaurants have a wide selection of dishes that diners can choose from based on their preferences. In some cases, Indian restaurant menus even have a dedicated vegetarian section.
Catering a large event or hosting vegetarian friends and family is also a snap. For a smaller gathering, ask the manager if they have any platters or other deals that can feed ten or more people. Look over the restaurant’s brochure or visit your favorite Indian restaurant’s website to view the catering menu for a corporate lunch or big celebration.
Add some of these famous vegetarian Indian dishes to your next meal:
- Samosa Chat – A yummy way to begin your feast is with a fantastic appetizer. Samosa Chat will do just that! A seasoned yogurt, tamarind, and mint sauce complement the main ingredients of veg samosas, chickpeas, onions, and tomatoes.
- Paneer Tikka Wrap – For a lunch filled with Indian BBQ made to savor, enjoy a Paneer Tikka Wrap. The fresh paneer soaks up every bit of the Tikka spices for a really scrumptious lunch or snack any time of the day.
- Palak – When you are craving something light and mild for dinner, then go with the Palak. This veg menu item is a spinach curry with authentic Indian spices and herbs.
More Tasty Indian Food Options
A one-hour lunch break, dinner after work, or even take-out doesn’t have to be the same old routine. Liven up your meals with a bright taste straight from India. When looking at the menu online or in person at the table, some Indian cuisine will be prepared in a saucy curry, while other dishes are primarily marinated meat or rice dishes. For example, Tikka Masala is prepared with meat or paneer in a tomato sauce, whereas Chicken Tikka is a dish made with marinated chicken baked in a clay oven. Biryani can be vegetarian or have a variety of meats to choose from sitting on a bed of aromatic Basmati rice. Take a look at a few more traditional Indian dishes:
- Seekh Kabob – Tender lamb is made even more enticing with the addition of ginger, garlic, and peppers perfectly cooked on a skewer.
- Peas Pulao – Fresh peas, Basmati rice, and herbs come together in a tasty combination in this Indian cuisine, also referred to as Indian rice pilaf.
- Butter Chicken – This saucy Indian food staple is a great welcoming meal into Indian food. Mildly spiced, with tomatoes, juicy chicken, and creamy, rich butter.
Indian Delight is the best spot in Cleveland to eat excellent Indian food. Visit our website www.idcleveland.com to view our menu today!
