With more than a billion people living in an area that’s a third the size of the U.S., India is one of the most beautiful, diverse, and fascinating countries in the world. And if there’s one thing everyone agrees on, it’s that Indian food is an unforgettable experience.
There’s a lot to love about Indian cuisine: bold flavors, fiery spices, and a sheer diversity of dishes that could fill pages of a menu. Sure, it might take a while to prepare, but the wait is always worth it.
If you’ve ever wanted to try Indian food but felt intimidated by the spice, you’re not alone! The good news is that there are many non-spicy Indian dishes and mild curries that are perfect for beginners. And if you’re vegetarian or vegan, you’ll be delighted to know that India is one of the best places on Earth for plant-based food – many classic dishes are naturally meat-free.
Of course, some people can be a bit intimidated by how spicy Indian food can be; luckily, there are a ton of non-spicy Indian food recipes available out there.
First Time Trying Indian Food? Start with the Basics
When you’re ordering Indian food for the first time, go for dishes that are flavorful but not overwhelming. Look for mild curries, creamy sauces, and familiar textures like rice, lentils, or grilled chicken.
If you’re dining at a restaurant:
- Ask your server which dishes are “medium” or “mild.”
- Order a raita (a yogurt-based side) to cool down spicy food.
- Try naan or roti—Indian breads that pair perfectly with curries.
Now that you’re ready, here are some of the best Indian dishes for beginners.
Start It Right: Popular Indian Appetizers
Most Indian appetizers are deep-fried or lightly pan-fried, giving them a satisfying crunch without being too heavy.
Samosas — These are small pastry triangles filled with spiced potatoes, peas, chutney, or even minced lamb. Crisp, comforting, and addictive.
Idli — Known as Indian rice cakes, idlis are soft, steamed savory pancakes made from rice and lentil batter, often served with coconut chutney and sambar (a lentil-based soup).
Vendakkai Varuval — Deep-fried okra coated in a spiced batter. Crunchy and full of flavor, it’s a perfect vegetarian snack to share.
Curry and Spice: Understanding the Flavors
If you’re new to Indian food, the variety of curries and spice blends might feel overwhelming. Here’s what you need to know:
Curry — A general term for spiced sauces made from blends of cumin, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, clove, and cardamom. Every region—and every household—has its own version, which is why no two curries taste the same.
Masala — A spice mix that can be mild or fiery. Cooked in oil to release flavor, masala forms the base of many Indian dishes like chicken tikka masala or paneer butter masala.
Paneer — A mild, fresh Indian cheese (similar to ricotta or firm tofu). It’s often cubed, fried, or simmered in creamy tomato sauce. Perfect for vegetarians.
Saag — A creamy spinach-based dish made with mustard greens or collard greens, spiced with masala and thickened with yogurt.
Raita — A refreshing yogurt and cucumber side dish that helps balance the heat of spicy curries. It’s your best friend when trying Indian food for the first time!
Everything Nice: Classic Indian Main Dishes
Most Indian main dishes are hearty, flavorful, and full of aromatic spices. Whether you like mild or spicy food, you’ll find something that fits your taste.
Chicken Tikka — Boneless pieces of marinated chicken roasted until juicy and smoky. Usually served with mint chutney.
Chicken Tandoori — Cooked in a traditional clay oven called a tandoor, this dish has a beautiful charred flavor.
Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) — The ultimate beginner-friendly dish! Tender chicken pieces in a rich tomato, cream, and butter sauce. Mild, silky, and impossible not to love.
Vindaloo — For spice lovers, vindaloo is a fiery Goan curry made with vinegar, garlic, and lots of chili. Proceed with caution—but it’s delicious!
Sweet Endings: Traditional Indian Desserts
Don’t skip dessert—Indian sweets are a treat on their own.
Gulab Jamun — Deep-fried milk solids soaked in a rosewater and cardamom syrup. Soft, warm, and irresistible.
Payasam (Kheer) — A creamy rice pudding made with condensed milk, cashews, and raisins. A comforting way to end your meal.
Discovering Indian Food Is a Journey
Trying Indian food for the first time is like traveling through flavors. Each dish tells a story—from the street snacks of Delhi to the creamy curries of Punjab and the coastal spices of Goa.
Start mild, keep an open mind, and enjoy the variety. Whether you’re a fan of vegetarian Indian food, looking for non-spicy Indian dishes, or ready to dive into classic curries, Indian cuisine has something for everyone.
So – what’s your favorite Indian dish? Let us know in the comments!
FAQ About Trying Indian Food for the First Time
1. Is Indian food always spicy?
Not at all! Many Indian dishes are mild and creamy, such as butter chicken, korma, or paneer makhani. You can also ask for “mild” when ordering.
2. What is the best Indian dish for beginners?
Butter chicken is a great start. It’s rich, flavorful, and not too spicy. Pair it with naan and raita for a perfect first experience.
3. What Indian food should I order if I’m vegetarian?
Try dishes like saag paneer, chana masala (chickpeas in tomato gravy), or vegetable biryani — all full of flavor without meat.
4. How can I cool down spicy Indian food?
Eat small bites with naan or rice, sip a yogurt drink (lassi), or have raita on the side — it balances the heat beautifully.
photo sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
