Indian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and diverse dishes, but there are some hidden gems that often get overlooked. Here are 13 underrated Indian dishes that are packed with taste and will leave you craving more. These dishes offer a unique twist on traditional flavors, bringing new excitement to your table. These underrated recipes surely deserve a spot in your kitchen.
Bombay Sandwiches
Dig into the street food scene with Bombay Sandwiches. It’s a simple dish with a complex taste profile, perfect for a quick lunch or snack. The vibrant ingredients layered between soft bread make it a beloved choice among locals and tourists alike.
Get the Recipe: Bombay Sandwiches
Cucumber Raita
Cool down with Cucumber Raita, a refreshing side that complements any spicy meal. This yogurt-based dish mixes grated cucumber with herbs and spices, offering a soothing texture and taste. It’s not only a perfect palate cleanser but also enhances the flavors of dishes it accompanies.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Raita
Butter Garlic Naan
Indulge in the rich flavors of Butter Garlic Naan. This flatbread is slathered in garlic butter, providing a fragrant and irresistible accompaniment to any curry or grilled dish. Its soft texture and buttery taste make it a favorite for mopping up sauces and gravies. It’s a simple pleasure that’s packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Butter Garlic Naan
Instant Pot Chicken Korma
Savor the creamy and luxurious Instant Pot Chicken Korma. This dish is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of India, featuring tender chicken in a smooth, spiced sauce made with yogurt and nut pastes. It’s quick to prepare in an Instant Pot, making it accessible for any home cook.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Korma
Kerala Fish Curry
Experience the tangy and spicy flavors of Kerala Fish Curry. It’s perfect for seafood lovers looking to explore regional Indian cuisines. The use of local spices and kokum gives it a distinctive taste that’s bold and invigorating. This curry is a beautiful introduction to Kerala’s celebrated culinary arts.
Get the Recipe: Kerala Fish Curry
Tandoori Chicken
Revisit the classic Tandoori Chicken, a dish that marries the robust flavors of marinated chicken with the intense heat of a tandoor oven. The result is succulent meat with a smoky char that’s often imitated but never duplicated. It’s a brilliant example of traditional Indian cooking techniques.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Chicken
Tamarind Chutney
Discover the sweet and sour world of Tamarind Chutney. This condiment is a staple in Indian cuisine, providing a perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness to accompany snacks like samosas and pakoras. Its deep, rich flavor enhances even the simplest meals.
Get the Recipe: Tamarind Chutney
Chicken Tikka Wrap
Chicken Tikka Wrap is a flavorful and portable meal perfect for on-the-go dining. This wrap features juicy, spiced chicken tikka pieces wrapped in a soft flatbread with fresh vegetables and creamy sauce. It’s a popular choice for a quick lunch or a light dinner, packed with bold flavors that will leave you satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Wrap
Palak Paneer
Serve it with roti or rice for a complete meal. Palak Paneer is a classic Indian dish that is subtly spiced, nourishing, and provides a perfect balance of flavors. It’s often overshadowed by more well-known dishes but stands out for its simplicity and depth of taste.
Get the Recipe: Palak Paneer
Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani
Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani offers a quick and easy way to enjoy a classic Indian dish that’s usually reserved for special occasions. It’s a less common but incredibly tasty variation of the traditional biryani. It’s perfect for a fancy dinner without the fuss. Dig into this dish for a taste of Indian seafood like no other.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Shrimp Biryani
Onion Samosas
Onion Samosas are a snack often overlooked outside of India. These small, crispy triangles are filled with a spiced onion mixture that’s both sweet and savory. They’re a common street food item that offers a crunch with every bite. Once you try these, you’ll see why they are a staple in Indian snack culture.
Get the Recipe: Onion Samosas
Chicken Kathi Rolls
Each bite is a perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors. Chicken Kathi Rolls are a street-food favorite from Kolkata that deserves more global recognition. They’re filling, flavorful, and perfect for any meal of the day. An underrated gem that encapsulates the vibrant essence of Indian fast food.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Kathi Rolls
Caramelized Cashews and Raisins
Often overlooked, this combination makes for a luxurious and satisfying treat. Caramelized Cashews and Raisins are a simple yet decadent treat. This dish combines the rich, nutty flavor of cashews with the sweetness of raisins, all brought together by a caramel glaze.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Cashews and Raisins