Different types of Indian traditional food

Indian cuisine is one of the most popular cuisines in the world, it is known for its diversity, colorfulness and rich aroma. There are countless varieties of food items in India that are distinguished by region, language, caste and tribe. Although, today India has embraced several foreign cuisines, majority of the Indians throughout the country prefer to eat traditional food that their ancestors ate since many years. Despite the diversity, there are certain types of conventional Indian food that are widely prevalent in all parts of the country, these foods are discussed below

         Flat Breads or Rotis:

In India there are different types of breads that are a specialty food of a certain region. In Punjab the flatbreads made of corn are unbelievably tasty and they are nutritious as well. These flat and unleavened circles of bread look very similar to tortillas and are a favorite Indian vegetarian food for many. Most people love to eat flat breads with curries or a vegetable side dish, while some others like it to be stuffed with vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower and potatoes that are marinated in various aromatic spices. The stuffed flatbreads are a popular breakfast for people living in the northern and western states of India.

·         Chutney:

It would be quite safe to say India is a land of chutneys. There are innumerable varieties of chutneys prepared in India. It is a kind of salsa or a relish that is often served in small bowls as accompaniments for snacks or even in full course meal. Depending on the type of snack or the meal being served, chutney can be sweet, sour or spicy. This traditional food item is made from a combination of ingredients like tamarind, mango, onions, mint leaves, tomatoes and pineapple.

·         Dal:

Dal refers to different kinds of beans or lentils. They are used extensively in Indian food. There are different kinds of Dal dishes in India and they are made of innumerable combinations of ingredients like vegetables, legumes, curry powder, mustard seeds, curry leaves, coriander, potatoes, chickpeas and Indian brown butter, Ghee. The popular Indian vegetarian food is usually eaten with steamed rice or Indian breads. The combination of Dal and Rice is a staple diet in almost all parts of India.

·         Tea:

This has been the national beverage of India since 4th century. It has been part of the Indian lifestyle since ages and it is often taken as refreshment drink and is also served at all socializing events.

·         Curries:

Indian curries are world famous. Curry is a gravy or sauce that is cooked with vegetables and various aromatic spices. The dish is made with masala and other ingredients like tomatoes, onions, ginger and garlic that add aroma and taste to it. All the ingredients are cooked together with vegetables and the end result is a thick stew. There are different types of curries and each state in India has its own specialty curries that are made with the local ingredients. This Indian vegetarian food can be eaten with both rice and flatbreads.