What is Indian Cuisine?

Indian cuisine is such a wonderful blend of flavours, colours, and fragrances, steeped in history and diversity. Whether in the lush valleys of Kashmir or the spice-laden shores of Kerala, there is something unique to be found in every region. Authentic Indian cuisine, as brought by NH 47 Restaurant here in Abu Dhabi, will surely bring you to the thought of its incredibly diverse culinary landscape.

A Symphony of Flavours: The Heart of Indian Cuisine

Indian cuisine is predominantly linked with its kaleidoscopic array of spices as well as very potent flavours. This is because ingredients such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala and a plethora of chillies are blended to infuse seasoned dishes that are flavoured in the most extreme extremes from one another: from sweet to mild to highly fiery and tangy. Each one of these is so meticulously prepared to blend spices, herbs, and techniques to cooking that every bite is an experience unto itself.

What are the Types of Indian Cuisines? 

Indian cuisine can be broadly classified into four categories of local cuisines: 

• North Indian Cuisine: rich and thick gravies, tandoori dishes, and heavy use of dairy.
• South Indian Cuisine: rice-based meals, coconut-based curries, and tangy flavours.
• East Indian Cuisine: freshwater fish recipes, mustard-based curries, and sweet desserts.
• West Indian Cuisine: spicy street food, and rich and vegetarian dishes.

North Indian Delights at NH47

• Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken is an iconic Indian dish, consisting of a rich, creamy tomato-based curry, which is said to be an offshoot of Delhi. This is one of those meat-rich dishes that consists of succulent lumps of grilled chicken simmered in a lavish gravy made using butter, tomatoes, and cream, seasoned with an aromatic mix of spices. It goes very well with naan, or even with steaming basmati rice. It's at the top of the popularity list of many at NH47.

• Chicken Biryani

Chicken Biryani is a gift to Mughlai cuisine. Layers of spiced chicken, saffron, caramelized onions, and aromatic herbs infuse this fragrant rice dish, all of which is slow-cooked 'dum' style so that all flavours are locked in in a heavenly concoction of spices and tender meat. Raita, a yoghurt-based side dish, and salad, a spicy curry, actually step up the experience.

• Rogan Josh

Rogan Josh is one of the staple products emerging from the Kashmiri region, the name is said to come from two words: "Rogan" which means oil, and "Josh" which is believed to mean heat. At NH47, we serve premium cuts of lamb, cooked with a combination of Kashmiri red chillies, yoghurt, and special spice blends that complement the fragrance and nuance of each dish's aroma to a mouth-watering crunch.

South Indian Specialities on NH47

• Masala Dosa

This crisp, thin crepe, from Karnataka, is prepared in a fermented rice and lentil batter. It has a spiced potato filling. The dish comes with coconut chutney and that spicy tangy sambar; the latter is a spicy vegetable stew based on lentils. It is very good for breakfast or for a light meal at any time.

• Chicken Chettinad

Although the dish Chicken Chettinad comes from the state of Tamil Nadu, it tastes spicy and robust. The preparation involves the use of chicken marinated with a paste of roasted spices, coconut, curry leaves, and fennel seeds. The result is a fiery, aromatic curry that is always accompanied well with steamed rice or parotta layer flatbread.

• Hyderabadi Dum Biryani

A classic from the Deccan region, Hyderabadi Dum Biryani is again one of the variants of biryani, cooked with basmati rice, marinated meat, and spices layered together and slow-cooked in a sealed pot, so this dish tastes aromatic with tender meat cooked in the unique 'dum' method. Try this out at NH47 for anyone who wants to have a real South Indian taste.

East Indian Specialties at NH47

• Fish Curry

Seafood will be the raison d'être in Bengali cuisine, and one such staple NH47 presents is Fish Curry with traditional East Indian flavours. Fresh fish is simmered in a mustard-based curry with tomatoes, onions, and a hint of green chillies. The pungency of the mustard seeds is balanced by the sweetness of the onions, and it is a flavorful dish served with steamed rice.

• Shrimp Malai Curry

Hailing from the coastal regions of Bengal, this rich, creamy dish is sure to satisfy all your cravings. Prawn Malai Curry consists of prawns cooked in rich coconut milk gravy that includes spices of turmeric, and cumin, along with a touch of garam masala. The subtle sweetness of coconut milk compliments the prawns perfectly. This creates a mild yet flavorful experience.

West Indian Wonders at NH47

• Pav Bhaji

Pav Bhaji is the most popular street food in Mumbai; it is a spicy vegetable mash with buttered pav or bread rolls. The bhaji includes potatoes, peas, tomatoes, and a special spice mixed together and then cooked until it becomes a thick, aromatic gravy. NH47 brings the authenticity of street food in Abu Dhabi for its delicious Pav Bhaji.

• Goan Fish Curry

Goan cuisine uses coconut, vinegar, and spices. A tangy spicy fish curry made from fresh fish, coconut milk, and mixed spices like coriander, turmeric, and red chillies. Kokum, it is said, is a souring agent of Goan cuisine that gives that special zing to the curry.

Indian Breads at NH47

If there was one staple of Indian cuisine, it was sure to be breads, and at NH47, we just have everything for you: naan, paratha, and maybe even stuffed with spiced potatoes and peas

• Naan

Soft and fluffy flatbread cooked in a tandoor (clay oven), Naan is a versatile accompaniment that goes well with almost any curry. We offer you plain, garlic, and butter naan to suit your preference.

• Paratha

Paratha is a flaky, layered flatbread and is a staple of North India. It's commonly stuffed with potatoes (Aloo Paratha) or cottage cheese (Paneer Paratha) and served with yoghurt, pickles, or curries.

• Roti

Roti is a whole wheat flatbread, which forms an integral part of most Indian households. A better alternative to this richness and spice, NH47 serves a range of gravies.

Desserts to Complete Your Meal

No Indian meal is ever complete without a sweet note. We also have the traditional Indian sweets at NH47:

• Gulab Jamun

Dissolved milk deep-fried pastry, soaked in rose water and cardamom-flavoured sweet syrup melt-in-the-mouth dessert to beat that dreaded spicy end.

• Ras Malai

Ras Malai is a Bengali special that is rich, soft paneer balls soaked in thick, sweetened milk, flavoured with cardamom and saffron. This creamy and lightly flavoured dessert is a favourite of all the dessert fans out there.

• Kulfi

Kulfi is an Indian ice cream made by thickening milk and adding cardamom and saffron flavour. It is denser and creamier than ordinary ice cream and provides a rich feel of indulgence through taste.

FAQs

Q: Is Indian Food Very Spicy?

A: Yes, Indian food is very spicy, but the level of spiciness varies depending on the region of the origin and the dish. Spices like chilli, cumin, coriander, and turmeric are used for offering flavours, but the spices can be adjusted as per individual preference.

Q: What is the Role of Spices in Indian Cooking?

A: Spices are used in Indian cooking by providing a variety of flavours, aromas, and colours to dishes. Popular spices such as cumin, turmeric, garam masala, and cardamom.

Q: Is Indian Cuisine Vegetarian?

A: A significant amount of Indian dishes are vegetarian, due to the cultural and religious variations. 

Q: Is Indian Food Healthy?

A: Yes, Indian cuisine can be healthy, because it uses a lot of vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. However, many dishes can also be rich in oil and fats, so balance in the diet is very essential.

Conclusion

At NH47 Restaurant Abu Dhabi, we pride ourselves on serving genuine Indian food, and for that reason, our chefs apply an old-fashioned cooking technique with high-grade ingredients in order to have flavours from India on your plate. From the rich gravies of North India to the fiery curries of the South, the fresh seafood of the East, and the vibrant street food of the West, you'll find it all in our diverse menu to suit every single palate.

There is something new waiting for you at NH47- the culinary journey through India's extremely diversified and delicious recipes. From appetizers to desserts, every dish is a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and culinary expertise.

Visit NH47 Restaurant Abu Dhabi today and experience the best of Indian cuisine in an ambience that is as warm and inviting as the food itself!