Indian street food pani puri with chutneys and spices – popular Indian dishes

Food Guides

10 Popular Indian Dishes You Must Try at Least Once

Published on March 18, 2026

Indian cuisine is one of the most diverse and flavourful cuisines in the world, and many of the most popular Indian dishes are loved globally for their rich spices and unique flavours. Known for its aromatic herbs and wide variety of dishes, Indian food offers something for everyone. From creamy curries to fragrant rice dishes and crispy street food, every region of India brings its own distinct cooking styles.

One of the reasons Indian cuisine is so popular worldwide is its balance of spices and ingredients that create bold yet comforting meals. Whether you enjoy mild and creamy curries or spicy and fiery dishes, Indian food has plenty of options to explore.

If you’re new to Indian cuisine or simply want to try something different, here are 10 popular Indian dishes you must try.

1. Butter Chicken

Butter chicken curry – one of the most popular Indian dishes with creamy tomato sauce

Butter chicken is one of the most famous Indian dishes around the world. It features tender pieces of chicken cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce made with butter, spices, and aromatic herbs. The rich and slightly sweet flavour makes it a favourite for many people. It is commonly served with naan bread or basmati rice.

2. Biryani

Chicken biryani with basmati rice – one of the most popular Indian dishes in India

Biryani is a fragrant rice dish made with basmati rice, spices, and meat such as chicken, lamb, or goat. Some versions are vegetarian and include vegetables or paneer. The rice is cooked with aromatic spices like saffron, cardamom, and cloves, creating a deeply flavourful and satisfying dish.

3. Masala Dosa

Masala dosa with potato filling served with chutney and sambar

Masala dosa is a popular South Indian dish made from a fermented batter of rice and lentils. The thin, crispy crepe is filled with a spiced potato mixture and served with coconut chutney and sambar. Masala dosa is commonly enjoyed as breakfast but is also popular throughout the day.

4. Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken tikka masala in creamy spiced tomato sauce with Indian spices

Chicken tikka masala consists of grilled or roasted chicken pieces cooked in a creamy tomato curry sauce. It is known for its rich flavour and smooth texture. This dish is extremely popular in many countries and is often served with naan or steamed rice.

5. Samosa

Samosas are crispy, deep-fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes minced meat. They are one of the most popular Indian snacks and are often served with tamarind or mint chutney. Samosas are widely enjoyed as street food or as an appetizer before a main meal.

6. Rogan Josh

Rogan josh lamb curry with rich red gravy and Indian spices

Rogan josh is a traditional lamb curry that originated from the Kashmir region of India. The dish is known for its deep red colour and rich flavour created by a blend of spices such as cardamom, cloves, and Kashmiri chilli. It is usually served with rice or naan.

7. Chole Bhature

Chole bhature with chickpea curry served with fried bread and onions

Chole bhature is a famous North Indian dish made with spicy chickpea curry known as chole, served with deep-fried bread called bhature. This hearty and flavourful dish is commonly enjoyed as street food and is a favourite comfort meal for many people.

8. Paneer Butter Masala

Paneer butter masala with creamy tomato gravy and Indian spices

Paneer butter masala is a popular vegetarian dish made with paneer, a type of Indian cottage cheese. The paneer is cooked in a creamy tomato and butter sauce with mild spices. It is rich, slightly sweet, and commonly served with naan or rice.

9. Vindaloo

Spicy vindaloo curry with tender meat in rich red sauce and chillies

Vindaloo is a bold and spicy curry that originates from the coastal region of Goa. Traditionally made with pork, the dish is also commonly prepared with chicken or lamb. Vindaloo is known for its intense heat and tangy flavour created from vinegar, garlic, and red chillies. It is a favourite among people who enjoy spicy food.

10. Tandoori Chicken

Tandoori chicken grilled with spices – one of the most popular Indian dishes

Tandoori chicken is a classic Indian dish where chicken is marinated in yogurt, lemon juice, and a mixture of spices before being cooked in a traditional clay oven called a tandoor. The cooking method gives the chicken a smoky flavour and juicy texture.

Where to Try These Popular Indian Dishes in Adelaide

If these dishes have made you hungry, Adelaide has many excellent restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Indian cuisine. From creamy butter chicken to spicy vindaloo and crispy dosa, many local restaurants offer these dishes as part of their takeaway menus.

If you’re looking for great places to try them, explore our guide to the best Indian takeaway in Adelaide where we highlight some of the most popular Indian restaurants in the city.

Final Thoughts

Indian cuisine offers a remarkable variety of dishes that reflect the country’s diverse culture and culinary traditions. From rich and creamy curries to crispy snacks and spicy specialties, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you are discovering Indian food for the first time or already love its bold flavours, these 10 popular Indian dishes are a great place to start your culinary journey.

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