This season, add the bright flavors of Indian cuisine to your celebrations. From a Christmas work party to ringing in the New Year, catering or ordering Indian food is a delicious way to make any party festive and cross a chore off your list.

Here are some incredibly tasty options for you to choose from in the upcoming months.

🎃 October 🎃

With the falling leaves and a chill in the air, October is a perfect month for some spicy Indian food. 

This Sweetest Day, treat your sweetheart to a meal made for sharing. We recommend starting with a Kachumber Salad – a blend of fresh onions, cucumbers, and tomatoes, with lemon, Chat Masala, and cilantro. A spellbinding main course of Rogan Josh is up next. Beautifully aromatic curry with tender lamb, garlic, ginger, and onion is sure to delight your senses. A Double Ka Meetha is an incredible way to finish a romantic dinner. Sweet sugary syrup with bread cubes fried in butter topped with almonds and pistachios.

Before the witches and ghosts come out for their yearly search for tricks and treats on Halloween night, be ready with a spicy dinner of Indian cuisine. Begin with a bowl of India’s national soup, Mulligatawny, and a side of fresh baked Naan. Heat up the night with an entrée of Vindaloo, the notoriously fiery hot Indian cuisine. The curry is a spicy combo of protein, potatoes, and flavorful seasonings. 

🍁November 🍁

When the calendar reads November, plans for the holiday season really go into gear. The countdown to Thanksgiving and possibly preparing to travel out of town to visit relatives is on. Of course, the traditional meal of Turkey with all the trimmings is what is most commonly served on the fourth Thursday of this month. But, with all the prep to create this iconic meal and the promise of leftovers after the main event, a savory bite of Indian food is a fantastic way to feed the family and guests in the days leading up to this holiday.

Consider take-out or ordering online while the pumpkin pies bake in the oven or the bread rises on the counter. This might be an excellent time for a lighter vegetarian lunch or dinner. A veg-based appetizer of Samosa Chat, a tasty blend of chickpeas, seasoned yogurt, onions, tomatoes, tamarind, and mint topped off with vegetable Samosas, is a superb choice. Crispy deep-fried Pakoras are another.

The yummy duo of cauliflower and potato is the base of the comfort food Aloo Gobi. It will make for a fantastic entrée leading up to Thanksgiving. A refreshing Mango Lassi will tempt the tastebuds and is a wonderful treat to add to the meal.

Are you having a Friendsgiving party this year? Take the gang to a local Indian restaurant, or add some Indian cuisine to your menu!

🎄December🎄

Christmas Eve and Christmas day are usually a whirlwind of events. The month of December is a flurry of activities, trimming the tree, shopping, wrapping presents, baking cookies, and more holiday excitement. Whether you travel to grandma’s house or she stops by yours, everyone needs a little bit of help this time of year.

Catering with Indian food can be the solution to keep you out of the kitchen and with friends and loved ones enjoying your holiday. Whether you are entertaining a group of ten or twenty-five, a meal packed with authentic Indian cuisine is a tasty option. 

Visit your favorite Indian restaurant in person or possibly even their website and look at the party platters and catering menu. 
Party platters may have the following Indian food to choose from:

• Tandoori Chicken
• Butter Chicken
• Vegetarian and Chicken Biryani
• Malai Kofta
• Paneer Tikka
• Garden Salads
• Butter Naan
• Extra Servings of Rice

Talk with the manager to plan a holiday menu for a company party or one at home. As with the party platters, vegetarian options will more than likely be available. For entrees selections, Biryani with chicken, vegetables, or goat will be a super way to feed a crowd. Paneer or chicken Tikka Masala is always a crowd pleaser. And it is hard to go wrong with the famous Indian dish that is Chicken 65.

When deciding on appetizers, don’t forget everyone’s favorite Samosas. These crispy triangles filled with spices, peas, and potatoes can quite possibly become a holiday tradition. Peas Pulao, with its Basmati rice, herbs, spices, and fresh peas, makes a tasty side dish to almost any curry. The same goes for butter or garlic Naan fresh from the oven.

The holidays are a time of gift giving. Give yourself a present of an Indian food dessert or two. Add a tray of Gulab Jamun for a sweet ending to the meal.

New Year’s Eve is a day to remember all the good times that were had in the previous twelve months. It is also the last day for many to indulge in holiday treats before resolutions kick in the next morning—ring in the new year with Indian food starters of Bhel Puri or Papri Chat. Order some Chili Chicken Wraps, Chicken 65 Wraps, Paneer, and Chicken Tikka Wraps. Finally, add some cheer with a dessert of Kheer!

🎆January 🎆

New Year’s Day signals the end of the holidays. It is the day many spend taking down the decorations, trying to break a bad habit, and finding other ways to be healthier. So why not spice up your January first with some Indian cuisine? 

A Butter Chicken Bowl is a flavorful way to begin the year. Ingredients include Chana Masala, fresh vegetables of onions, tomatoes, lettuce, carrots, and cucumbers, all topped off with a slice of lemon, a fried chili, and sprinkled with cilantro.

Start planning your holiday meals with incredible Indian food and make your season a tasty one!

Dine in or order online from Indian Delight for any of the authentic Indian cuisine mentioned above. Visit our website www.idcleveland.com to view our menu and to inquire about quick or large catering services.

Here we are going to learn interesting facts about not only Indian food and India but also some fun details you need to know!

Second Largest Population In The World

With almost 1.4 billion people, India has the second-largest population in the world. China has the largest population of over 1.4 billion people. A report in 2021 stated that India might soon take the top spot because of the lower birth rates in China.

The Six Flavours

There are six primary flavours that make up any Indian Dish. They are:

• Sweet
• Sour
• Salty
• Bitter
• Spicy
• Astringent

If you are unfamiliar with astringent flavours, think of green tea, broccoli, or yogurt.

All Those Spices!

India produces 70% to 75% of all the world’s spices. No wonder the food is so amazing! With such quantities and varieties to choose from, the flavours are bright and rich. From amchoor to white peppercorns, the Earth is more delicious because of Indian spices.

What A Celebration

Indian weddings are colourful affairs that can last up to three days. One of the most prominent wedding colours is red. Often the bride will wear a different outfit for each wedding event and ceremony.

A Dish With A History

Did you know that the Indian dish curry has been around for thousands of years? According to an article by the Smithsonian Magazine, there is evidence of curry spices from 2,500 and 2,000 BC.

The Magazine goes on to say that “curry is not only among the world’s most popular dishes; it also may be the oldest continuously prepared cuisine on the planet.” Fascinating!

Pack An Umbrella

The standard yearly rainfall of Mawsynram earned the town a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. The city achieved this feat by enduring a whopping one thousand inches of rain in one year!

Veggie Lovers

Vegetarians may choose Indian food because of all the delicious menu items. And for a good reason. India has a vegetarian population of up to 39%. 

More Facts

There is so much more to explore about Indian cuisine and India. Here are a few facts we couldn’t leave out:

• Chess originated in India.
• India produces the most milk in the world.
• The Himalayas are most commonly known as being in Nepal, but they stretch to India too!
• India is the second-largest English-speaking country.
• Some say that Chicken Tikka Masala was created in Scotland, not India. 
• Hinduism is the major religion in India.
• There is a five-thousand-year-old city in India where people live to this day.
• The Indian currency is the rupee.
• India is also home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World – the Taj Mahal!
• The primary colours on the flag of India are orange, white, and green.

Indian Delight has a great variety of delicious Indian food. Dine with us in person, order takeout, or get it delivered. Visit www.idcleveland.com to view our menu today!

Let’s take a look at a few mild Indian dishes you might like to try.

Bread –

One of the best things about trying different cuisines is finding new flavor combinations. One of the best ways is often with bread. Whether it is used to soak up the last bit of sauce, dip, or paired with a soup or an entree, trying a new type of bread is fantastic.

Ask for these types of bread the next time you order. 

Naan – Naan is a type of leavened soft and mild flatbread that is served in most Indian restaurants. It is a fabulous addition to any meal or snack. Some menus may also offer Garlic Naan or Butter Naan.

Tandoori Roti – This dish gets its name from the traditional vessel it is cooked in, a Tandoor oven. Tandoori Roti is the perfect accompaniment to any curry dish.

Laccha Paratha – Another mild Indian food is a bread that is fried in ghee, or clarified butter, that produces flaky, crispy layers.  

Whole Wheat Partha – Last on our bread list is Whole Wheat Partha. This particular bread dough can be hand-tossed or rolled out to attain its signature crunchy texture.

Appetizers and Main Dishes –

Diners looking to avoid spicy heat levels do not have to miss out on appetizers. For some, appetizers are the best part of the meal. Consider these mild Indian dishes to start your dining experience off deliciously.

Kabobs – Tender pieces of seasoned beef, chicken, and sometimes even goat, skewered and cooked to perfection. Kabobs are a go-to mild Indian dish. 

Lentil Soup – Creamy and light Lentil Soup is a tasty mild appetizer to start your lunch or dinner. Pair it with any of the bread we mentioned above for extra flavor.

Pakora – Packed with flavor but easy on the spiciness, try this deep-fried fritter when you are hungry for Indian food.

Main dishes can be easier to order when looking for less spicy menu items. Some restaurants allow you to choose the spice level when you are ordering. If you are unsure, always talk with your waitperson for more details.

Peas Pulao – First up is a vegetarian rice dish made with the bright flavors of fresh peas, herbs, and spices. Order this and share it with the table!

Butter Chicken – Fans of Indian food across the globe love Butter Chicken. As for spice level? It is served just right, mild! Try it with Whole Wheat Partha to soak up the buttery goodness.

Vegetable Malai Kofta – When your taste buds are craving something creamy and deep-fried, order the mild Indian dish Vegetable Malai Kofta. An incredible combination of crispy dumplings and mixed vegetables.

Chicken or Paneer Tikka – For a truly authentic Indian dish, order Paneer, an Indian cheese, or Chicken Tikka, marinated and cooked in a clay oven. Fill your hungry belly with this hearty, aromatic dish.

Beverages –

Your local Indian restaurant may serve beverages you have never tasted before. A Lassi is a refreshing yogurt drink that is sometimes flavored with fruit, including mango.

They may also have different teas and chai combos that you should definitely sip! Ask the staff for their recommendations.

Cleveland’s Best Indian Food –

Indian Delight offers a delicious menu with mild Indian dishes and vegetarian options. We invite you to dine-in, takeout, or get convenient delivery. Ask about our catering menu and services for your next corporate event or special occasion. View our menu or get in touch with us today. www.idcleveland.com

With all the fantastic options, let’s look at which Indian dishes are the most popular that you might want to try your next evening out.

Biryani –

Biryani recipes come in a variety of preparations. Different meats such as lamb, chicken, beef, or even goat can be incorporated into this Indian dish. Vegetarians can also count on this staple by choosing one made with ingredients like carrots, cauliflower, potatoes, and peas. 

The hallmark of Biryani has to be the spicy blends and basmati rice. What makes it so remarkable is its universal appeal. Serve it on any special occasion or order an average Thursday for a truly exceptional meal.

Fun Fact – Swiggy, a well-known food delivery service in India, reported that in 2021 Chicken Biryani was the most ordered meal!

Samosas –

As any Indian food lover can attest, Samosas are undeniably tasty. Their iconic triangle shape and crisp exterior are just about irresistible.

Our favorite recipe is a taste sensation of spices, potatoes, and peas. Samosas make the perfect appetizer for your meal or snack at any time of the day.

Interestingly Samosas are also known by a couple of different names. Here are just a few:

• Samsa
• Samuza
• Sambosa
• Singada

Butter Chicken –

Tender chicken, herbs & seasonings, tomato, onion, and garlic come together in one of the most popular Indian dishes in the world – Butter Chicken.

Talented home cooks and restaurant chefs alike know that serving this dish leaves friends, family, and customers with full bellies and complete satisfaction.

The next time you eat Butter Chicken, keep these facts in mind:

• Butter Chicken is traditionally prepared in a clay oven known as a tandoor.
• Compared to some other Indian dishes, Butter Chicken is relatively young. It was first made in the nineteen-fifties.
• Its country of origin is Delhi, in North India.
• Butter Chicken is also known as Murgh Makhani.

Rogan Josh –

For an authentic taste of Indian cuisine, look no further than Rogan Josh. Juicy lamb, fresh garlic, spicy ginger, and onion give this aromatic curry true zest.

Order a side of rice, Naan, or Tandoori Roti to make this a fantastic lunch or dinner. 

Here is the answer if you have ever wondered how Rogan Josh got its name. First, this Indian food can also be spelled, Roghan Josh. Roghan is oil in Persian, and Josh means to heat or boil.

Chicken Tikka Masala –

The key to any delicious Chicken Tikka Masala begins before cooking. This Indian cuisine recipe is most commonly marinated in yogurt and a blend of rich spices to make it tender and flavorful.

Every restaurant recipe may vary to some extent, but this curry is famously good wherever it is served.

Chicken Tikka Masala is a global phenomenon for sure, but no one enjoys it more than the British. Some even claim that it was first made in Glasgow, Scotland, but this is now mostly dispelled.

Final Thoughts –

We hope you enjoyed learning more facts about some of the famous Indian food served at kitchen tables and restaurant booths near and far. These tasty dishes are sure to be devoured at your next family function, work event, or quiet evening.

Stay tuned for more yummy articles, facts, and tips on Indian food!

Indian Delight serves up the best Indian dishes in Cleveland, Ohio. Visit our website, www.idcleveland.com, to browse our menu or reserve a table today. 

Do you have a special event coming up? Don’t forget to check out our Catering Services!

Read on to find the vegetarian Indian dishes to add to your next order.

Soups and Salads –

Sometimes, a light but filling soup and salad lunch are all you need. Hearty and seasoned, this refreshing selection works whether you dine in, grab and go, or snag during your lunch hour.

Lentil Soup –

Fill up with a tasty bowl of warm Lentil soup any time of the year. Spice levels may depend on your restaurant of choice. Read reviews or ask your waitperson if you prefer a mild or more spicy lentil soup.

Mulligatawny Soup – 

Taste the flavours of Indian cuisine with this soup made with coconut, lentils, a variety of vegetables, and spices. Some restaurant recipes may call for a garnish of chicken or other meats. If your local chef adds this garnish, just specify in your order to remove it.

Palak Shorba –

A cup or bowl of Palak Shorba is sure to fill your veggie cravings. This Indian cuisine calls for spinach and other green leafy vegetables. As with most recipes, restaurants may vary. Some may be spicy hot with the addition of ginger.

Kachumber Salad – 

This crisp and delightful salad has a blend of fresh cucumbers, onions, tomatoes, and a hint of cilantro that is sure to please. 

Garden Salad –

A simple garden salad with a house-made dressing of your choice might be the perfect counterbalance to a spicy soup, appetiser, or entree.

Appetizers –

A variety of delectably savory appetisers make any meal more delicious and memorable. Try a few of our favourites the next time you crave vegetarian Indian dishes.

Samosas –

Treat yourself to the vegetarian Indian food delight of Samosas. Order a few extras for the table or the family to-go order because they go quickly!

Papri Chat –

Filling chickpeas and seasoned potatoes bring this dish to life! Some restaurants might serve this Indian cuisine with a yogurt-based condiment and fresh herbs.

Mixed Vegetable Appetiser Plates and Platters –

If you are unsure of which appetisers you will like, order a plate or platter to get a taste of them all! Choices may include but definitely are not limited to, Samosas, Paneer Pakora, Chili Pakora, and Vegetable Pakora.

Entrees –

The main star of every meal is the entree. Vegetarian Indian food does not disappoint. Regardless if you are hungry for a curry or a lentil-based dish, check out these fantastic entrees.

Aloo Gobi – 

A perfect vegetarian Indian food combination of potatoes and cauliflower will tempt your taste buds with this dish. It is made with the comforting aromas and tasty spices that make this cuisine instantly recognisable.

Vegetable Malai Kofta –

When you are deciding on a mild menu item, go for Vegetable Malai Kofta. This meal has the incredible vegetable blends you love and fried dumpling balls for a flavour sensation!

Daal Tadka – 

Do you love lentils? Then this is the choice for you. A perfect blend of yellow lentils, cumin, and other rich spices makes this a delicious lunch or dinner.

Desserts –

Any fine meal deserves a sweet ending. Do you have a sweet tooth to indulge in but are unfamiliar with Indian cuisine desserts? Give one of these a chance the next time you are out.

Kheer –

In this yummy dessert, raisins, almonds, and rice pudding come together in a fabulous trio of tastiness.

Gulab Jamun –

Gulab Jamun is a classic dish prepared with deep-fried cheese and covered with a syrup flavoured by rose.

Ras Malai –

This creamy dessert marries cottage cheese dumplings, cardamom, and rose water into a perfect end-of-the-meal bite.

As you can see, there are many incredible vegetarian Indian dishes everyone must try! Add one of these menu items to your order for this week’s special treat. Indian Delight is serving up some of the best vegetarian Indian food in Cleveland! We invite you to dine with us, grab some takeout, or use our convenient delivery partners. Visit www.idcleveland.com to browse our menu and order today!