Indian cuisine has captivated taste buds across the globe with its bold flavors, aromatic spices, and rich culinary heritage. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to fine-dining establishments in London, New York, and Bangkok, Indian food has become a universal favorite. But what makes it so irresistible? Let’s explore some of the most eaten Indian dishes worldwide, why they are cherished, and where you can try them.
Why Indian Food Is So Popular Globally
The appeal of Indian food lies in its diversity and depth of flavors. The use of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala creates complex yet balanced dishes. Moreover, Indian cuisine caters to a variety of dietary preferences, offering delicious options for vegetarians, vegans, and meat lovers alike.
With Indian communities spread across the world, these dishes have become staples in international food scenes. Whether you’re dining at a high-end restaurant or grabbing a quick bite from a street vendor, the essence of Indian food remains intact—comforting, flavorful, and satisfying.
The Most Eaten Indian Foods Around the World
1. Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)
A creamy, rich, and mildly spiced tomato-based curry with tender chicken pieces, butter chicken is a favorite in Indian restaurants worldwide. This dish, originally from Delhi, pairs perfectly with naan or basmati rice.
Where to Try:
- Moti Mahal (Delhi, India) – the birthplace of butter chicken
- Dishoom (London, UK)
- Punjab Grill (Singapore)
2. Chicken Tikka Masala
Often considered Britain’s unofficial national dish, chicken tikka masala features grilled marinated chicken cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. Its origin is debated, with claims from both India and the UK, but its global popularity is undeniable.
Where to Try:
- The Shish Mahal (Glasgow, Scotland) – claimed to be the origin of the dish
- Bukhara (New Delhi, India)
- The Bombay Club (Washington, D.C., USA)
3. Biryani
A fragrant and flavorful rice dish made with aromatic spices and meat (or vegetables), biryani is beloved from South Asia to the Middle East and beyond. The Hyderabadi and Lucknowi versions are among the most popular.
Where to Try:
- Paradise Biryani (Hyderabad, India)
- Biryani by Kilo (Dubai, UAE)
- Darbar (Bangkok, Thailand)
4. Samosa
This crispy, deep-fried pastry filled with spiced potatoes, peas, or meat is a go-to snack in many countries. It’s commonly found at Indian restaurants, food trucks, and street vendors.
Where to Try:
- Chandni Chowk (Delhi, India) – famous for street samosas
- Samosa House (Los Angeles, USA)
- Saravanaa Bhavan (multiple locations worldwide)
5. Naan & Roti
No Indian meal is complete without bread. Naan, a soft, buttery flatbread, and roti, a whole wheat alternative, are staples served with curries and lentils.
Where to Try:
- Karim’s (Old Delhi, India)
- Veeraswamy (London, UK)
- Tamarind (New York, USA)
6. Dal Makhani & Dal Tadka
Lentils cooked with rich spices are a comforting and nutritious dish. Dal Makhani, made with black lentils and cream, is famous in North India, while Dal Tadka (yellow lentils with tempered spices) is a staple everywhere.
Where to Try:
- Bukhara (Delhi, India)
- The Yellow Chilli (Dubai, UAE)
- Mother India’s Café (Glasgow, Scotland)
7. Paneer Dishes (Palak Paneer, Paneer Butter Masala)
Paneer, a fresh Indian cheese, is used in creamy and flavorful curries. It’s a favorite among vegetarians worldwide.
Where to Try:
- Gaggan (Bangkok, Thailand)
- Bombay Canteen (Mumbai, India)
- Dosa Hut (Melbourne, Australia)
8. Chaat (Pani Puri, Bhel Puri, Aloo Tikki)
Indian street food is a sensory explosion of flavors, with sweet, tangy, spicy, and crunchy elements all in one bite.
Where to Try:
- Elco Pani Puri Centre (Mumbai, India)
- Kailash Parbat (New York, USA)
- Haldiram’s (various locations worldwide)
9. Tandoori Chicken
Marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked in a traditional tandoor oven, this dish is smoky, juicy, and packed with flavor.
Where to Try:
- Pind Balluchi (Delhi, India)
- Tandoor (Singapore)
- The Clay Oven (Los Angeles, USA)
10. Masala Dosa
A South Indian specialty, masala dosa is a crispy rice crepe filled with spiced potatoes, served with chutneys and sambar.
Where to Try:
- Mavalli Tiffin Room (Bangalore, India)
- Udupi Palace (San Francisco, USA)
- Murugan Idli Shop (Chennai, India)
11. Gulab Jamun & Jalebi
These deep-fried Indian sweets soaked in sugar syrup are a delight to end any meal with.
Where to Try:
- Kesar Da Dhaba (Amritsar, India) – famous for gulab jamun
- Brijwasi Sweets (Mumbai, India)
- Rajbhog Sweets (New Jersey, USA)
12. Lassi
A refreshing yogurt-based drink, often flavored with mango or rose, lassi is a great way to cool down after a spicy meal.
Where to Try:
- Amritsari Lassi Wala (Amritsar, India)
- Punjab Sweet House (Dubai, UAE)
- Punjabi Grill (Bangkok, Thailand)
Indian food is a culinary adventure that has found a home in almost every country. Whether you’re indulging in butter chicken in London, savoring biryani in Dubai, or relishing a masala dosa in Bangkok, the flavors of India continue to enchant food lovers worldwide.
Next time you travel, be sure to try these dishes at their best—and if you have a favorite Indian restaurant, let us know in the comments!