India is a land of diverse cultures, languages, and traditions, and the same is reflected in its cuisine. From the rich and spicy gravies of the north to the tangy and coconutty curries of the south, India is a foodie's paradise. In this blog, we will take you on a gastronomic journey through India, exploring the most delicious and unique dishes that each region has to offer, starting from the north and moving towards the east, west, and south.

Uttar Pradesh
Let's begin our culinary journey with the land of kebabs and biryanis - Lucknow. Known for its nawabi cuisine, Lucknow has a rich history of Mughlai cuisine that has been passed down from generations. One of the must-try dishes in Lucknow is the famous Lucknowi biryani. Made with long-grain rice, meat, saffron, and a blend of aromatic spices, this biryani is slow-cooked in a sealed pot, giving it a unique flavour and aroma. Another popular dish from Lucknow is the Galouti kebab - a melt-in-your-mouth kebab made with minced meat and a secret blend of spices.

Punjab
Moving further, we come to the land of the Punjabis - Punjab. Known for its buttery and hearty dishes, Punjabi cuisine is a favourite among foodies all over the world. One of the most famous dishes from Punjab is the butter chicken - succulent pieces of chicken cooked in a creamy tomato-based gravy with a generous amount of butter. Another popular dish from Punjab is the chhole kulche- a delicious combination of spicy chickpea curry and crispy, fluffy bread.

Rajasthan
Next on our journey is the land of the royals - Rajasthan. Known for its desert landscapes and vibrant culture, Rajasthan has a unique cuisine that is influenced by its arid climate. One of the must-try dishes from Rajasthan is the Laal Maas - a fiery red meat curry made with a blend of spices and red chilies. Another popular dish from Rajasthan is the Gatte ki Sabzi - a vegetarian curry made with chickpea flour dumplings in a spicy yogurt-based gravy.

Gujarat
Welcome to the land of colours and festivities - Gujarat. The cuisine of Gujarat is as diverse as its culture, with a delightful mix of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavours. One of the must-try dishes from Gujarat is Dhokla - a savoury and fluffy steamed cake made from fermented chickpea flour, tempered with mustard seeds and served with chutney. Another popular dish from Gujarat is the Undhiyu - a flavourful mixed vegetable curry cooked with a medley of winter vegetables, spices, and herbs.

West Bengal
As we move towards the eastern part of India, we come to the land of the Bengalis - West Bengal. Known for its rich and diverse cuisine, West Bengal has a cuisine that is influenced by its proximity to the Bay of Bengal. One of the must-try dishes from West Bengal is the fish curry - a tangy and spicy curry made with a variety of fish and a blend of aromatic spices. Another popular dish from West Bengal is the Rasgulla - a spongy and syrupy dessert that explodes sugary sweetness in your mouth.

Maharashtra
Arriving on the western coast of India, we come to the gateway to the west- Maharashtra. Known for its bustling cities and beautiful beaches, Maharashtra has a cuisine that is a fusion of different flavours and cultures. One of the must-try dishes from Maharashtra is the Vada Pav - a humble street food that has become a cultural icon. It consists of a potato patty sandwiched between two buns and served with spicy chutney. Another popular dish from Maharashtra is the Misal Pav - a spicy curry made with sprouted beans, served with bread.

Kerala
Moving towards the southern part of India, we arrive at the land of the aromatic spices - Kerala. Known for its backwaters, coconut groves, and spice plantations, Kerala has a cuisine that is a delight for foodies. One of the must-try dishes from Kerala is the Appam with Stew - a fluffy rice pancake served with a mild and flavourful vegetable/meat stew. Another popular dish from Kerala is the Meen Curry - a tangy and coconutty fish curry that is a staple in every Keralite household.

Andhra Pradesh
Next, then there’s the land of the pearls - Andhra Pradesh. Known for its spicy and tangy cuisine, Andhra Pradesh has a cuisine that is a reflection of its fiery temperament. One of the must-try dishes from Andhra Pradesh is the Hyderabadi Biryani - a delicious blend of long-grain rice, meat, saffron, and aromatic spices, slow-cooked in a sealed pot. Another popular dish from Andhra Pradesh is the Gongura Pachadi - a tangy and spicy chutney made with Gongura leaves and a blend of spices.

Tamil Nadu
Finally, we end this journey with the land of the temples - Tamil Nadu. Known for its ancient temples and rich culture, Tamil Nadu has a cuisine that is influenced by its geography and history. One of the must-try dishes from Tamil Nadu is the Dosa - a crispy and savoury crepe made with fermented rice and lentil batter, served with spicy chutney and sambar. Another popular dish from Tamil Nadu is the Chettinad Chicken - a spicy and aromatic curry made with a blend of spices and herbs.

India's cuisine is a reflection of its rich culture, history, and geography. From the rich and hearty dishes of the north to the spicy and tangy curries of the south, India is a foodie's paradise. Each region has its own unique flavours and cooking techniques, making it a gastronomic journey that is truly unforgettable. So, the next time you travel within India, make sure to explore the local cuisine and indulge in the diverse and flavourful dishes that this country has to offer.

To enjoy these regions and local cuisines, Brightsun Travel offers flights and packages to all of these destinations with discounted deals from our airline and hotel partners. Please call us to book, and we are open 24/7 if you plan a last minute spontaneous foodie weekend away!