Introduction

A country of more than 1 billion people, India is as diverse as it gets, and so is its cuisine! Vast geography, invading cultures, and regional differences have all left their mark over time. What holds this diverse cuisine together, however, are the aromatic and flavorful spices common to all Indian cuisine. The real art of Indian cooking is in blending these spices and tastes — sweet, sour, salty, spicy, bitter, and astringent — so that they are in perfect harmony in each dish.

In addition to the variety of tastes present in Indian cooking, the diverse landscape provides a variety of fruits, vegetables, and meats that influence the local cooking of each region. Northern Indian cooking is rich in meats, nuts, and amazing breads. The cuisine of western India is simpler, focusing on rice and lentils. The eastern coastline is blessed with abundant seafood, which is reflected in the cuisine of the region. Southern India is famous for its legendary pickles and chutneys, and its healthy, varied vegetarian options.

In this book, we’ve collected fifty of the best Indian recipes that are representative of each of these cultures and regions to try in your home. Some recipes are classics that you can find in any Indian restaurant — and some are more obscure, and will give your palate a pleasant surprise with bold combinations of spices and flavors. If this is your first experience with Indian food, you may find yourself quickly becoming a fan, and if you’re a seasoned eater, you may just find a new favorite! These full-flavored recipes are abundant in fruits and vegetables, and will leave you satisfied without feeling full all day. In these fifty dishes, you’ll find everything from seasoning blends to satisfying entrees, to sweet treats for the end of your meals — all with enough variety to keep you coming back again and again!