10 Must-Try Dishes for First-Time Indian Food Explorers in Delhi NCR

India, a country known for its diverse culture and rich heritage, is also famous for its exquisite cuisine. The Indian culinary scene is a gastronomic delight, offering a wide array of dishes that are as diverse as its culture. Delhi, the capital city, is a food lover’s paradise, offering a plethora of mouth-watering dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. If you are a first-time Indian food explorer in Delhi National Capital Region (NCR), here are 10 must-try dishes that you should not miss.

1. Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a popular dish in Delhi. It is a creamy and rich dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a buttery tomato sauce. It is best enjoyed with naan or rice.

2. Chole Bhature

Chole Bhature is a classic North Indian dish that is a must-try in Delhi. It consists of spicy chickpeas (chole) served with deep-fried bread (bhature). It is often accompanied by pickles and yogurt.

3. Biryani

Biryani is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish made with basmati rice, meat (chicken, mutton, or fish), and a blend of spices. It is a complete meal in itself and is a must-try for any food lover.

4. Gol Gappe

Gol Gappe, also known as Pani Puri, is a popular street food in Delhi. It consists of hollow, crispy puris filled with a mixture of flavored water, tamarind chutney, chili, chaat masala, potato, onion, and chickpeas.

5. Samosa

Samosa is a popular Indian snack. It is a fried or baked pastry with a savory filling, such as spiced potatoes, onions, peas, lentils, and sometimes meat. It is often served with mint or tamarind chutney.

6. Tandoori Chicken

Tandoori Chicken is a popular dish made by roasting chicken marinated in yogurt and spices in a tandoor, a cylindrical clay oven. The result is a deliciously spiced and smoky chicken.

7. Dal Makhani

Dal Makhani is a staple dish in Delhi. It is a creamy and buttery lentil dish made with whole black lentil, red kidney beans, butter, and cream. It is best enjoyed with naan or rice.

8. Aloo Tikki

Aloo Tikki is a popular North Indian snack made of boiled potatoes, onions, and various spices. It is typically served hot with tamarind and coriander-mint sauce.

9. Paneer Tikka

Paneer Tikka is a vegetarian alternative to chicken tikka. It is made from chunks of paneer marinated in spices and grilled in a tandoor. It is a popular appetizer in Delhi.

10. Jalebi

Jalebi is a popular Indian dessert. It is made by deep-frying a wheat flour batter in pretzel or circular shapes, which are then soaked in sugar syrup. It is best enjoyed hot.

These are just a few of the many delicious dishes that Delhi has to offer. Each dish is a unique blend of flavors and spices, offering a taste of India’s rich culinary heritage. So, if you are a first-time Indian food explorer in Delhi NCR, make sure to try these dishes for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.