Lentil dhal – a meatless dish that will win you over
Indian
Indian cooking is built on spice — turmeric, cumin, garam masala, and chilli give every dish colour and depth. Find fragrant curries, creamy tikka masala, lentil dal, and fluffy naan for mopping up the sauce. Whether you like it fiery or mild, start here.
Frequently asked questions
What defines Indian cuisine?
Layered spice and rich sauces. The base is curry with turmeric, cumin, and garam masala, plus lentil dal, yoghurt marinades, and breads like naan or chapati.
Does Indian food have to be very spicy?
Not at all. You control the heat with the amount of chilli — tikka masala and korma are creamy and mild, so even the spice-shy can enjoy them.
What's the best dish to try first?
Go for butter chicken or a simple red lentil dal. Both cook in one pot, the flavours are gentle, and the ingredients are easy to find.
Which spices should I buy to get started?
Turmeric, cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, and chilli will cover you. Add fresh ginger and garlic and you have the base for most curries and dals.
What do you serve with curry?
Basmati rice or naan bread — ideally both, since there's always plenty of sauce. A cooling yoghurt raita softens the heat, and pickled onion or mango chutney rounds it out.
Are there meat-free options?
Plenty. Indian food is rich in vegetarian dishes — lentil dal, chickpea chana masala, or paneer cheese with vegetables fill you up without any meat.