India’s cuisine is one of the most diversified globally, distinguished by its nuanced use of various spices, vegetables, cereals, and fruits found throughout the country. In addition, the different demographics of the ethnically diverse Indian subcontinent are reflected in the cuisine of each geographical region, which encompasses a myriad of foods and cooking styles.
Indian food has had an impact on cuisines all around the world, particularly in Southeast Asia. Today, it’s one of the most popular cuisines globally, with a big Indian diaspora and the general populace in North America, Australia, Europe, and even many parts of Africa relishing it.
Diverse Regional Cuisines in India
India’s cuisine is as diverse and locally specific as its people. India’s history, religious and cultural practices, trade partners, conquerors, and all strongly influenced these cuisines. Even though Indian cuisine is prominently region-specific, with common elements, curries, which are gravy-like sauces or stew-like dishes such as meat, cheese, vegetables, pulses, etc., are a staple of Indian cuisine across the country. However, the specific spice mixes and ingredients vary by area. Fortunately for the people of Melbourne, there are some of selected best Indian restaurants in the city.
• Northern Indian Cuisine is heavily influenced by Mughal cuisine. It is known for its heavy usage of dairy: milk, paneer (an Indian cheese), clarified butter (ghee), and yogurt. From samosas to kebabs, the favorite snacks are quite popular. Tandoors, or clay ovens, are popular cooking methods in the North, which impart a characteristic charcoal flavor to foods like tandoori chicken and naan bread. Dal makhani or paneer makhana, palak paneer, aloo gobhi, and other vegetable preparations are famous vegetarian meals. Korma, a creamy curry made with coconut milk/ yogurt and an assortment of spices with cashews or almonds, is another Northern Indian menu classic. Additionally, a variety of meats, most commonly chicken or lamb curries, are also relished in this cuisine.
• Western India Cuisine has three primary regions – Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Goa – defined by their geographical and historical characteristics. Fish and coconut dominate Maharashtra’s cuisine due to its coastal setting. Gujarati cuisine is largely vegetarian, and many of its dishes have an underlying sweetness; this region is also known for its chutneys due to the dry climate that yields smaller vegetables. Goa’s cuisine is a vibrant blend of India’s and Portugal’s culinary influences, with distinctive vindaloo dishes featuring meat.
• Eastern Indian Cuisine is noted for its desserts with subtle sweetness and exquisite taste, such as Rasgulla. The use of mustard oil, mustard, and poppy seeds in this cuisine lends a subtle zing to the meals. Rice and fish are very popular in Eastern Indian cooking.
• Southern Indian Cuisine is rich in curries with stew-like dishes – sambar and rasam – being common that containing a variety of vegetables. In addition, Southern Indian cuisine is notable for its fried or griddle-cooked appetizers, such as dosa (a big rice pancake filled with vegetables) served with chutneys and curries. There are also idlis, the cooked rice balls that go well with sambar and rasam. Then the world-famous biryanis, the amalgamation of fragrant rice with the choice of meat, is considered an ethereal food option.
If you are tempted to try the Indian cuisines, you will not be disappointed with the food served at various good Indian restaurants in Melbourne.
Give Yourself an Exquisite Indian Treat
Indian cuisine is not merely food, but it is a celebration of a great taste that has originated from a vibrant culture. If you find yourself craving some fine dining clubbed with a riot of flavors and a memorable experience of trying the fine Indian symphony, then you cannot miss the wide selection of the crème de la crème of the exquisite Indian dishes; only at the best Indian restaurant in Melbourne.
