With the availability of home delivery services and curbside pickup, many of us are dining out more than ever. 

It is easy to stick with the go-to eateries in the area. But, it can get so dull eating the same thing every week or so. Situations like these create the perfect opportunity for a culinary adventure.

Enter the flavorful world of Indian food. 

Some may be concerned that Indian dishes are too spicy. If this is a worry, many restaurants let you choose the spice level of your order. And yes, some are fiery hot. But there are also mildly spiced menu items. 

What about those who don’t eat meat or are looking to cut back? Indian restaurants often have vegetarian and even vegan dishes.

Are you ready to learn more? Let’s explore some tasty restaurant Indian dishes!

Chicken Tikka Masala

No one seems to agree on who created this dish or how. But almost everyone that has tried Chicken Tikka Masala spread the word about its delicious flavor 

Now it is true that the recipe for this Indian dish does vary. Most prepare it with boneless chicken, a blend of spices, and a tomato-based sauce. 

Masala refers to the spices used in chicken tikka masala. A few common ingredients are:

• Cinnamon
• Cumin
• Coriander

People the world over enjoy serving and eating this Indian food. Americans and the Brits especially! That’s why this Indian dish is at the top of our list.

Rogan Josh

Lamb is a protein not commonly found in American restaurants. If you are a fan or interested in trying it for the first time, ask for Rogan Josh.

While tender pieces of lamb and heat are the stars of this Indian dish, the aromatic spices are enticing. The cardamom, cloves, and garlic add to the flavorful taste.

TasteAtlas describes how Rogan Josh got its name:

“The name of the dish is derived from two words: rogan, meaning clarified butter or oil, and josh, referring to passion or heat.”

Butter Chicken 

Comparatively, Butter Chicken is the youngest Indian food on our list. A restaurant owner in India created it and added it to the menu. Needless to say, it became a big hit.

For those who prefer a mild lunch or dinner, give Butter Chicken a try! Of course, butter is a vital ingredient. Other notable ingredients are tomato gravy and an array of delicious spices that complete this amazing Indian dish.

Shish Kabob

Indian restaurants throughout the world are serving up fresh and tasty shish kabobs. 

Proteins of beef, chicken, and lamb are top choices. Chefs chop the protein into bite-size pieces and skewer them with fresh onion, peppers, and juicy tomatoes.

This menu item might be an ideal choice for younger children or picky eaters. Order a side of rice, garlic naan, or a garden salad to enhance this meal.

Vegetable Malai Kofta

One ingredient that pops up all the time in Indian cuisine is paneer. For those unfamiliar with Indian food, paneer is simply a cheese from India made with fruit or sometimes vegetable acid.

Now onto the yummy dish of Vegetable Malai Kofta. This dish incorporates paneer and commonly potatoes. The chefs combine these ingredients with choice spices, form them into ball-shaped dumplings, and then deep fry.

Next, they add the dumplings to assorted vegetables in a mild creamy sauce known as malai. Add Vegetable Malai kofta to your food bucket list today!

Peas Pulao

We can almost smell it now basmati rice, garlic, ghee, and bright green peas. What’s not to like about Peas Pulao?

Another scrumptious Indian food vegetarian option. Great weekly options for lunch at work, dinner at home, or out on the town.

Keep this in mind for meatless Mondays.

Jalfrezi 

Jalfrezi or Jalpharezi is a curry dish from Bengal. Special note – this dish is known to be spelled quite a few different ways.

Indian restaurants serve Jalfrezi with a protein of their choice. But, the thick curry sauce is what this meal is all about. Green chilies, peppers, and onions bring the sauce to life. Add some curry to your food routine by ordering Jalfrezi!

Palak Paneer

Spinach and paneer come together in delicious harmony with the Indian food Palak Paneer. 

Adding to the bright, rich taste are again the spices of India. Palak Paneer pairs well with the Indian bread Roti and Naan.

Dal Tadka

Treat yourself to the authentic Indian flavors of Dal Tadka. Spicy cumin combines with succulent lentils for a taste sensation.

Make your meal even better by combing Samosas as a starter or Gulab Jamun for dessert.

Salmon Curry

We didn’t want to leave out the seafood lovers on our list. Indian food incorporates all types of fish in its cuisine.

If you are craving a seafood dish, how about ordering Salmon Curry?

Some recipes call for the fresh addition of tomatoes and herbs. Ask your waiter how their restaurant prepares this specific curry dish.

The rich flavors of India are readily available to try and enjoy. Explore your neighborhood to find the best menus in town.

As you can see, Indian food has meals to please many palates. Investigate your local restaurants to find new options to delight your friends and family!

We hope we inspire you to branch out with these fabulous Indian dishes and discover even more. Happy eating!

Are you looking for a fantastic Indian restaurant in the Cleveland area? We invite you to try Indian Delight. Browse our menu for all the dishes mentioned above and so much more! Dine-in with us, takeout, or use our convenient delivery service partners. Visit www.idcleveland.com for more information today!