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India is known for having some of the best food culture in the world. The number and range of spices and fresh ingredients used across the country has led to an unparalleled diversity of flavors. Throw in the seemingly countless ways in which dishes are prepared and composed, and you have some of the tastiest dishes on Earth.

In order to truly appreciate Indian cuisine though, it’s necessary to understand how much food varies between regions, and the historical processes that led to these differences.

For those who are merely looking to enjoy delicious food, history might not seem to be of the utmost relevance, beyond the basics. When you really study a culture, however, you learn just how important the past is in defining the flavors of a country that we enjoy today. People who are well versed in international studies come to understand that history, cultural development, and even religion all play key roles in shaping what we see and experience in any given country in the present. And this kind of understanding is particularly relevant in India, where the differences in how regions have developed have specifically led to fascinating variations in culinary tendencies from one place to the next.

Indian cuisine is the result of thousands of years of evolution and outside influences from regions like Persia and China. The country's efficient trading networks have long provided access to almost any spice in existence, from chilis, to cinnamon, to mustards –– leading perhaps most importantly to the creation of different types of masala. This variety of spice mixes led in turn to the creation of numerous types of stew known as curry. At the same time meanwhile, the disdain for alcohol in Indian culture has led over time to the cultivation of different types of juices and hot drinks (like the much-celebrated chai), which only further enhance the country's flavor offerings, so to speak.

In these ways, different cultures, religions, and events shaped India's cuisine over time. Inevitably though –– given the vastness of the country, the variation in trade networks and resource availability, and even the different major religious influences over time –– different regions within the country also developed unique flavors and dishes. As we alluded to in a prior look at northern cuisine in the country, every part of India has its own unique cuisine.

For a few significant examples, consider the following....

1. Delhi

Among other things, Delhi is known largely for its different types of stuffed flatbread, kababs, and Indian ice cream. All these are Delhi’s takes on popular meals, and are drawn from the blend of cultures that exist in the city. Street food is the name of the game, ultimately, and this also means variety. You're likely to find foods from different regions in Delhi if you look and ask around.

2. Kerala

The best local cuisine also takes advantage of special, available ingredients. Food in Kerala, for example, is mostly vegetarian (with a healthy dose of seafood), and also takes advantage of the spice that has long been produced in the area –– namely, ginger, cardamom, and black paper. There are numerous dishes specific to Kerala, but one worth knowing is Arikadaka, a dish made by cooking mussels with rice flour in their shell.

3. Punjab

Punjab cuisine has a strong Central Asian influence (typically associated with India's Muslims rather than its Hindu population). The meals are usually rich in butter and whole wheat. That said, this is also considered an area of fairly diverse cuisine, and one in which you're more likely to find a sampling of Indian food from different regions. One of the most popular dishes though is the Sarson ka saag, made of mustard greens, ginger, and garlic, accompanied with makki di roti, a type of flatbread from the northern regions of India.

4. Sikkim

This particular region is influenced by multiple ethnic groups at once, though it's the Nepalese cuisine that largely defines the food scene. Meat, rice, milk, and some locally grown vegetables are staple ingredients, though there are also some surprising elements to the cuisine as compared to most of the rest of India. For instance, the Bhutia Buddhists in the area will consume beef (which many Indians do not), and alcohol is far more prevalent in Sikkim.

It wouldn’t be possible to cover the complex history and culture of India and how the cuisine has come to be in a single article. To do so would require a study of Muslim and Hindu influence, a record of conquests, complex studies of trade over centuries, and consideration of where ingredients come from. But we hope that this piece has given you a sense of the complexity, and an appreciation for how learning a place's history and culture can help you appreciate wonderful food even more.

content intended only for the use of patelbros.com By Anna Rows

India is home to extraordinary over-the-top delicious and flavorful food that will transport you to food heaven. When eating Indian food, you are guaranteed to experience a plethora of flavors in just one sitting. What characterizes India is its undying love for food items, as its cuisine is not only different in taste but also the ingredients used and cooking methods. 

In addition, what makes Indian cuisine vastly unique from other cuisines is also its dining etiquettes and how the food is served.  For instance, sitting on the floor and eating is a common practice in India. Eating with your hands is part of Indian culture. Most Indians prefer eating with their fingers rather than using cutlery. You will find people eating in a thali in every corner of India. 

In an Indian traditional thali,  there are no courses as all of the food is served together on one platter. It has now become the most popular method for serving meals in India.

What is a Thali?‍

Thali is a Hindi term for a large plate. It's a stainless steel platter with small katoris or bowls, each containing a separate dish. Thali’s usually have 4 to 6 steel bowls. The purpose of a thali is to create a balanced and nutritional meal-offering 6 different flavors: sweet, salt, bitter, sour, astringent, and spicy on a single plate. The servings have proper proportions. Thali is an integral part of everyday eating, festivals, and celebrations like weddings. 

Types of Indian Thali:‍

Every region in India has their version of thali as it varies from region to region.   Thalis are both vegetarian and nonvegetarian.  All thalis include condiments like chutney,  pickle, and raita. Below is a list of common types of thalis found around India.

1. North Indian Thali

Known as the spiciest, colorful and flavorful thali. North Indian thali is heavily influenced by Punjab and its surrounding areas. In this thali, you will find the usage of rich and hearty Moghul elements like milk, cheese, yogurt, cream, nuts, saffron, chilies, and ghee (clarified butter).  
Some of the items that a North Indian thali include are Punjabi chole (chickpea curry), palak paneer (spinach with cottage cheese), paneer tikka (grilled paneer with veggies), dal makhni (creamy lentils), butter chicken (chicken with spiced tomato and butter sauce), khadi chawal (rice with chickpea flour yogurt curry), saag (leafy vegetable), paratha (flatbread), ladoo and gulab jamon. To gulp down the meal, sweet lassi is served at the end.  North Indian thali is the most prevalent around the globe with its ingredients readily available in major supermarkets.

2. South Indian Thali

What makes South Indian thali unique is its served over a banana leaf.  The curries, lentils, pappadum, and condiments are placed around the side of the leaf with a large serving of rice in the middle. 
The thali is primarily vegetarian with main components including rice, lentils, vegetables, and fruits like coconut with heavy use of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg. Some of the main entrees include rasam (spicy soup), sambar (lentil based vegetable stew), idli (rice cakes),  sabzi (vegetable curry),  and medu urad dal vada (fritters).

3. Gujarati Thali

As the climate in Gujarat is dry, it is common to add jaggery to food to stay hydrated. A Gujarati thali includes flatbreads: rotili, thepla, and puris.  Some farsans or snacks you will spot on the thali are samosas (fried potato pastries), dhokla, and chakri (gram flour snack). Main entrees include dal (lentils),  shaaki (vegetable curry), kadhi (chickpea flour yogurt curry), khichdi (rice with lentils). Some delicious desserts include doodhpak (rice pudding) and jalebi (Indian-style funnel cake). 
Additionally, Gujarati thali also has certain seasonal items. Aamraas (mango pulp) is served during the summer and undhiyu is served in the winter.

4. Bengali Thali

Bengali cuisine uses a unique blend of spices called paach phoran. This is a mixture made of five whole seed spices: mustard seeds, nigella seeds, fennel seeds, fenugreek seeds, and cumin seeds.  This spice blend is used in most Bengali dishes. Thali is a mix of vegetarian and nonvegetarian dishes.  
Fish and rice are a staple in Bengali cuisine. Bengali thali has a variety of fish, vegetable, and lentil dishes. Some items include shukto (vegetable curry), alu bhaate (mashed potatoes, begun bhaja (fried eggplant), machher jhol (fish curry), and maach bhaja (fried fish).

Due to distinctions in atmosphere and soil conditions across India, the cuisine is different from one another, as every region uses spices, herbs, and ingredients that are grown locally. Indian cuisine may vary from region to region, it still manages to keep the value system in place across the board. Thali is an example of this uniformity.  Eating Indian thali food is an experience that everyone must try. 

When food trends go viral on social media, they go beyond the screen we are looking at. They travel through our kitchen, into our belly, and eventually end up as posts on our social media pages. Since the pandemic started, people have been experimenting more in their kitchens. Both ametuer and professional cooks alike have put their creative hats on to  come up with out of the box and groundbreaking viral recipes.  

In the last couple of years, viral food recipes on TikTok have been seen trending everywhere. From easy cooking hacks to surprising food combinations, we have penned down some of our favorite memorable and worthy of noting food recipes:

1. Liquid Dough Paratha

Let’s admit it, making homemade parathas can be messy and cumbersome. This recipe is a solution for the days when you are craving homemade parathas. It does not require any kneading or rolling, so you can make them quickly without the mess.
To prepare the liquid dough batter,  add the flour and salt into a bowl, then slowly add water while whisking. The batter will be similar to that of a pancake.  In a heated frying pan with oil, pour an even layer of the paratha mixture and cook on each side until golden brown.  This recipe has received mixed reviews. While some expert chefs say it's an innovative idea, others call it time consuming because  it takes up to 7 minutes to make each paratha.

2. Fanta Maggi

When you think of your favorite Indian comfort food, without a question, Maggi noodles instantly come to mind. A street food vendor in India came up with this out of the box recipe, and it has become the talk of the country on social media.  This creative concoction is easy, and can be made within minutes.
First, butter is added to a heated wok to saute onions and green chilies. Next, water and fanta are added along with some spices. Finally, Maggi noodles are added and cooked. Fanta Maggi is garnished with chaat masala and lemon. The taste has been  described as “sweet and sour”, “spicy and sweet” and “weird but tasty”.

3. Feta Pasta

Feta pasta was perhaps the most talked about viral recipe of 2021. A TikToker in Finland was the first to share this recipe, which quickly grew in popularity due to its minimal prep time and delicious flavors.
In a baking dish, add olive oil, cherry tomatoes, garlic, salt, pepper and mix it well. Add a block of feta cheese with chili flakes on top. Bake for about 30 minutes at 400F or until the tomatoes have burst and the feta cheese has softened. Bake for an additional  10 minutes at 450F until the cheese has turned golden brown. Take the baked cheese out of the oven and mix well. Finally, add the boiled pasta and fresh basil and mix well.  
This is a very versatile dish, and people have created their own versions by using different types of pastas, or additional ingredients such as protein, veggies and spices.  Some serve it as a dip, while others went a step further by making it into a soup. The taste is described as “rich and creamy” and “decadent and fulfilling”.

4. Airfryer Pasta Chips

This pasta chip recipe might take the award for the most  creative  way to eat pasta.  This is another simple recipe that is super easy to make. Use boiled pasta, add oil, cheese and seasonings, and then place it in the airfryer for 8 to 10 minutes at 400F.  The end result is crispy and crunchy snackable pasta chips.
You can also make it an Indian style version by adding spices such as chili powder, chaat masala, garam masala, or amchur powder. These Indian pasta chips can be served with mint or mango chutney.  This is a guaranteed crowd pleasing  appetizer or snack.

Some of these buzzworthy food trends have gained a cult following. Some supermarkets even have dedicated sections of the store for the ingredients of viral recipes. 2021 was a big year for food trends, and needless to say, they’re here to stay.  What makes these food trends unique is that they are versatile and fit for all types of tastes. 

The last two years have been tough on everyone due to the ongoing threats posed by covid that limit gatherings, entertainment and travel. We all can agree that one thing that has kept us sane and brought us together during this time is food. We look forward to seeing more out of the ordinary and intriguing food trends in 2022!

Indian women are turning heads and killing the game and receiving their long overdue global recognition. Gone are the days, where Indian women were just known for taking over conventional career paths. Nowadays,  you will see Indian women representing themselves and setting trends in all fields of life.  From being global entrepreneurs, having their own skincare and collaborating with top notch luxury fashion lines, to being comedians, to having their own successful food series, Indian women are doing it all. Below are some of our favorite Indian women crush taking over the world by storm:

1. Padma Lakshmi

Padma was born in Chennai and moved to the U.S. at an early age. With many achievements under her belt starting at a young age, Padma is best known for her hosting gig on the Emmy Nominated show, Top Chef. She currently has a Hulu series called Taste of Nation which was recently nominated for Gotham Award for Breakthrough Series. She's also a food expert, artist ambassador for American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)  for immigrant rights and women’s rights, and a New York Times best-selling author. While struggling with endometriosis herself, a gynecological condition which is often discovered later in life, Padma co-founded the Endometriosis Foundation of America (EFA) to bring awareness, start research,  and educate other women. It is amazing to see Indian personalities bringing awareness about a major fertility problem which is overlooked and often kept secret in our society.

2. Dolly Singh

Dolly Singh comes from humble beginnings and grew up dreaming of becoming famous one day. She certainly worked hard to achieve that dream by creating content that is hilarious and relatable for her audience. She now has over a million followers on social media. It is rare that you find an Indian woman that is a comedian and a fashion blogger that is authentic. What makes Dolly Singh unique is that her content is not scripted and presented without the heavy editing. The content  is based on normal and relatable things that other Indian women often encounter issues like arranged marriage to struggling with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). On her YouTube channel, she plays a character called  ‘Raju Ki Mummy’ on the Raju Ki Mummy chat show. On her show, she collaborated with Bollywood celebrities like Priyanka Chopra, Sonam Kapoor,  Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Pankaj Tripathi.  She recently appeared in the Netflix web series  called  Bhang Beanie Bhaag.  In today’s digital area, where content creators only show curated content with a certain aesthetic, it's great to see Dolly Singh keeping it real.

3. Diipa Büller-Khosla

Born in Delhi and now based in Amsterdam. An important goal of Diipa is female empowerment. Diipa is an influencer and  an entrepreneur.  She was named Elle India’s Influencer of the Year in 2019.   She is the founder of Post of Change, a non-profit organization that brings together the reach of social media  influencers and online platforms to successfully bring social change. In 2019, she was awarded “The Changemaker Influencer” by Inflow Summits. She collaborated with big brands like Dior, Louis Vuitton Armani, Fendi, Jo Malone, Mac, Bvlgari, and Spotify.  Recently, Diipa launched her own skin line called Inde Wild, skincare products made with Ayurvedic remedies that she grew up using.  Growing up, Diipa was often bullied because of her skin color, Diipa turned a negative into a positive and has become a proponent  of skin pride and  has shown the world that being brown is beautiful.   Recently, Diipa discussed body positivity and reminded women that instead of hiding, they should be proud of their postpartum stretch marks and body. Diipa has become a social media clout.

The above Indian women have built a one of a kind relationship with their audience by bringing awareness to issues important to women. It is empowering to see Indian women taking on vital roles and winning in life. They have shown the world that the future will consist of powerful and successful Indian women everywhere. 

Overall, this year was a big year for Indian women as they were spotted in major roles from the White House (Vice President Kamala Harris) to being Miss Universe 2021 (Harnaaz Sandhu) to being global CEO of luxury brand, Chanel (Leena Nair).  The glass ceiling has definitely been broken by Indian women and this is the start of the world recognizing the shift in power.  Indian women are making history and this is just the beginning.  

Let’s face it, no one does glitz and glam better than Indians. Thanks to Bollywood movies for introducing the world to the most colorful mecca of fashion.  Dresses including sarees, lenghas, and Indian Inspired gowns caught the attention of more than just other desis. Indian embroidered prints with delicate lace, thread, and stone work have become increasingly popular globally. With a strong presence at award shows and premieres, we tend to overlook those who perform right alongside big name celebrities. We are talking about the outfits that captivate everyone’s attention at the red carpet. These four top Indian designers have made big debuts globally dressing up big celebrities and representing Indian fashion.

1. Falguni Shane Peacock

The designer couple duo is based in Mumbai and have been creating avant garde outfits for 15 years.  Their signature style is traditional and contemporary that includes feathers, sequins and prints.  They are known for their unique silhouettes which caters to all body types with bold and edgy designs and flawless detailing.  The designer’s ability to blend western silhouettes with Indian embellishments has been very successful as the designer duo has styled some of the most iconic celebrities on the red carpet and on stage both in India and globally. Some of the show stoppers that love wearing the designer’s extravagant creations include Shipla Shetty, Priyanka Chopra, Beyonce, Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga and Katy Perry. The designer’s most recent work is showcasted on the Sex and the City reboot where the main character, Sarah Jessica Parker is spotted wearing a Falguni Shane Peacock lengha.

2. Sachin & Babi

The designer duo is based in New York and their fashion house was founded in 2009. Their designs are  known for their impeccable Indian embroidery, texture and colors. In the early days, the couple worked behind the scenes for top designers like Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera, and Manolo Blahnik until they went on to start their own brand. The designs are produced in their family owned factory in Mumbai. They are known for their unique and contemporary evening wear. The Sachin & Babi brand caters to all body sizes and has a diverse list of clients that include Alia Bhatt, Mindy Kaling, Michelle Obama, Sofia Vergara and Octavia Spencer. After the pandemic started, the brand launched  the Good Kloth company that includes personal protective equipment (PPE), uniforms and loungewear. 

3. Naeem Khan

Born and raised in India, Naeem Khan moved to the U.S. in 1978 for apprentice with the famous designer, Halston. As a young boy, he cultivated a vast knowledge of design and  textile from his father and grandfather who designed formal wear for Indian royal families. Naeem Khan designs are known for their melitcous beading, rich embellishment,  shimmering sequins, elegant and timeless silhouettes. He has become the most sought out designer for western bridal wear as his collections goes above and beyond the western traditional style and include florals, unique geometric patterns, lace, hand embroidery, sequins, fringe and feathers. Naeem Khan’s luxury gowns are adorned and worn by high profile celebrities such as Deepika Padukone, Michelle Obama, Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middelton, Queen Noor of Jordan, Beyonce, and Taylor Swift.

4. Sabyasachi Mukherjee

Originally from Bengal, Sabyasachi is the most sought out for Indian bridal wear. He is one of the most celebrated designers in India. Sabya’s is known for his traditional designs with personalization and celebration of Indian culture and heritage especially of his hometown, Kolkata. His clothes have gained a cult following for their vibrant color combinations, luxury fabrics and  eclectic designs. Sabya is the most wanted designer for real life Bollywood weddings and has dressed the following for their nuptials, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, Anushka Sharma, Priyanka Chopra and Bipasha Basu. In 2017, Sabya did a collaboration for a limited edition shoe capsule collection with the world famous red sole owner, Christian Louboutin. Recently, Sabyasachi collaborated with H&M to showcase Indian textiles and prints. The Sabyasachi x H&M collection was sold out globally within hours after launching.

Indian designs have been a long time muse to global fashion. Global luxury brands like Christain Dior and Gucci have been inspired by Indian craftsmanship, artisanal weaving, embroidery and embellishment methods. The variety and influences that designers can draw from every region in India is massive, and no other country can top that.

Undoubtedly, no other cuisine compares to the flavor, aroma, depth and variety of Indian cuisine. Indian cuisine is known to be diverse as compared to other cuisines worldwide as the use of spices and herbs in varying degrees makes every dish unique in flavor from the other. The exotic flavor of Indian food is popular worldwide and is loved in every corner of the globe. When eating Indian food, you are guaranteed to experience a plethora of flavors in just one sitting. Over the last decade, Indian cuisine has taken over the world’s top culinary stage and claimed its spot on the global map as it won top honors for its culinary delights. Below are the top movers and shakers who have a big hand in putting Indian cuisine on the global map:

1. Sanjeev Kapoor

Just like the Kapoors of Bollywood, Sanjeev Kapoor is the most celebrated chef in every corner of India. Long before turning to Google and YouTube for recipes, chef Kapoor’s popular show khana khazana served as a recipe guide in Indian households everywhere. Khana khazana is one of the top and longest running food tv shows in India and has over 500 million viewers. In 2011, he also launched his own food channel called Food Food. Chef extraordinaire has authored over 150 best selling cookbooks. In 2017, he was awarded Padma Shri by the government of India. Interesting and impressive fact, in 2017, chef Kapoor claimed his spot in the guinness book world records as he cooked over 918kg which is over 2000 pounds of khichdi on live tv. If you are looking for a five star fine dining experience,visit one of the locations of Chef Kapoor’s famous restaurant chain called yellow chili, where your tastebuds will get the chance to try chef’s signature dishes like Shaam Savera, Lalla Mussa Dal, Gulab e Gulkand and Royal Hara Bhara Kabab

2. Vikas Khanna

Chef  Vikas Khanna has received exclusive culinary top honors and has a list of unparalleled accomplishments.  This charismatic chef is based in New York and is the owner of an upscale Michelin star Indian restaurant called Junoon. Junoon has been the recipient of a prestigious Michelin star award for 8 years in a row. Chef Khanna is the judge of Masterchef India and has worked with world renowned chefs like Gordon Ramsey, Bobby Flay and Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Some of the chef’s top recipes include chicken tikka masala, pumpkin biryani with pistachios, khubani ka shahi tukda and chai-infused emperor's green rice. Last year in the beginning of the global pandemic, Chef Khanna started the “feed india” initiative to deliver food and supplies to those in need across India.

3. Vineet Bhatia

Based in London, Chef  Bhatia was the first Indian chef to receive a Michelin star for his restaurant called Zaika in London and later for his other restaurant named Rasoi in Switzerland. He is the only Indian chef that holds a Michelin star in the United Kingdom and outside of the United Kingdom. Chef Bhatia’s does not conform to traditional Indian cooking style rather his food inspiration comes from anything and everything. Chef’s cooking style is a  combination of traditional and contemporary. Chef likes to mix and match various ingredients from different flavors to create new and out of the world recipes. Some of his popular iconic dishes include salmon-coconut cakes, dill raita, chicken koftas, edamame salsa grilled peaches, white chocolate rabdi and cardamom panna cotta and sweet fennel lollipop. Chef Bhatia is the judge-host of Masterchef India and also appears as the judge on The Final Table on Netflix.  In addition to his list of achievements, Chef Bhatia also authored two books, Rasoi: New Indian Kitchen and My Sweet Kitchen.

As evident from their numerous accolades, these chefs have paved the way, filled in the big shoes, and made great progress in introducing Indian cuisine to a worldwide audience while garnering new fans along the way. Indian cuisine has finally received its recognition in the global culinary world. There are various definitions of what a great chef may be but a key factor is how they represent and give back to the cuisine of their homeland. It is no easy task to get your feet wet in the top culinary world and these chefs above have done a fine job in representing India.

In recent years, Bollywood dance has taken over the world center stage. Bollywood is known for their over the top dance numbers and stunts with upbeat music and colorful costumes. Dance is a big part of Indian culture.  From performing kathak in temples to doing bhangra in weddings, you will find people dancing everywhere in India. Thanks to TikTok, Bollywood dance offs have now become a trend.  

Before the pandemic started, Bollywood inspired dance workout classes were gaining popularity across the country as Indian music was often seen being used in various classes like yoga, zumba and barre.  If you are looking for a new hobby, want to choreograph a dance number for your friends or family’s upcoming wedding or want to get in shape by dancing to bollywood music, you no longer have to step into the gym and worry about getting an awkward look while learning your favorite dance move, you can enjoy learning bollywood dance from the comfort of your home. We have penned down suggestions for Indian dance groups that offer virtual dance classes:

Bollyx Fitness

Featured on NBC’S shark tank, Bollyxfitness offers bollywood inspired dance workout routines with step by step library tutorials with ability to customize your workouts by song, duration and intensity. They offer low and high intensity workouts that are up to an hour. Bollyx also offers a free trial class to new members.  Some of our favorite Bollyx’s  dance videos include “mera tera boyfriend” and “gallan goodiyaan”.

Bfunk

Based in New York, Bfunk also known as bollywood funk is a leading dance institute which offers virtual lessons as well as outdoor lessons with limited capacity. At Bollywood funk, you will find Bollywood music mixed with other dance schools such as hip hop and jazz. They challenge their participants to bring their own unique dance moves to the east meets west canvas of dance. In bfunk’s dance videos, you will spot dancers from every background.  If you are looking for a quick burst of energy, check out our favorite modern dance off  “ghungroo” and “jalebi baby”

Bhangra Empire

Bhangra is everyone’s favorite type of Indian dance in Indian weddings as it is the most popular and energetic folk dance. Bhangra Empire is based in California and has been around since 2006. If you are looking to learn bhangra the proper way, Bhangra Empire offers beginner, intermediate, advanced and master level classes. Bhangra Empire appeared on America’s Got talent, have performed during the half time of Golden State Warriors and well as for Barack Obama’s first state dinner in 2009. Check out the remake of the legendary song “yaar bolda”

Andaaz Dance Academy

Based in San Diego, California, Andaaz offers dance classes on Bollywood dance as well folk dances like bhangra and garba.  In addition to group lessons, they offer individual dance lessons and couple dance lessons  They also do live performances at sangeet and weddings. Check out easy to follow mellow dance number “bahara bahara”

Dance is the best discovery of mankind as it is the one of the best stress relievers. All of these groups listed above are unique in their own way and will inspire you to get out of your comfort zone. These Bollywood dance  groups will guarantee that you get off the couch and get your groove on.  Bollywood dancing will give you the adrenaline rush you have been looking for. 

Are you a fan of Bollywood dancing or have taken a class to learn to choreograph a dance number? Share your favorite dance routine or dance group in the comment section.

“Chai tou piyange?” which translates to “will you have chai?” is a common phrase that you hear if you live in or are visiting an Indian household. Chai is an essential drink in India.  It can even be considered rude if you don’t serve chai to guests visiting your house,  as Indians are known for their warm hospitality.  If you are Indian, you know that your morning is not complete without a cup of  garam (hot) chai.  Chai is the national hot drink of India. It is no surprise that India is one of the largest  producers of tea in the world, with  more than half of it being consumed domestically. 

What is Chai?

You may  have heard of “Chai Tea” (which translates to “Tea Tea”) while visiting your local coffee shop. Chai is made with strong, black, loose leaf tea that has been boiled with milk and sugar. There is no defined recipe for chai. Rather, there are many variations on how to make it, and everyone has their own preference. Some people mix water, milk, sugar and black tea together and let it come to a boil, while others prefer to boil water and black tea together first, then add milk and sugar separately at the end. While some prefer to use black loose tea,  others prefer tea bags. Chai is very different from herbal teas found in cafes. Traditional Indian chai requires boiling, and it is not complete without milk. Let’s go over the most common types of chai found in India:

1. Masala Chai

This is perhaps the most common chai you will find  in India. The tea is prepared with spices like ground cloves, ground cardamom, ground black peppercorn, ground nutmeg and cinnamon. It can also be made with  ready made masala chai powder. Masala chai has a spicy and creamy taste, and  is served with savory and sweet snacks like  cookies, papad, samosas, and pakoras.

2. Eliachi Chai(Cardamom Chai)

Green cardamom pods or cardamom powder is added to the black tea. Green cardamom produces a zesty citrus flavor that gives a sweet aromatic flavor to the chai. Eliachi chai can be served with mithai, an Indian sweet concoction.  Read all about Indian mithai here. 

3. Adraak Chai (Ginger Chai)

A must have winter delight, ginger chai is prepared with freshly grated ginger and cinnamon. Adraak chai has a strong yet distinct taste, and is often used to facilitate the healing of common colds. 

4. Kahwa 

Originating from Kashmir, kahwa is made with green tea infused with cardamom, cloves, and saffron. It does not include milk, and  is traditionally prepared in a metal kettle called samovar.  Kahwa is a winter specialty and is often served after a heavy meal as it is known to help digestion. 

5. Kashmiri Chai

Kashmiri Chai also known as noon chai or gulabi chai (pink tea). Kashmiri chai gained a cult following in the past few years, introducing it to restaurants, streetside cafes and weddings. This pink drink was initially only served to the royals due the sacred supply of Kashmiri tea leaves.  Unlike other chais which take a few minutes to prepare, kashmiri chai is time consuming. The taste is described as “creamsicle of flowers”.  Looking for a fail proof recipe to brew your cup of pink, check out our previous blog post. 

Now that we have presented you to the must have world of Indian chai, we suggest making a pit stop at your local Patel Brothers store to pick up some Indian tea from their selection of different varieties. 
Leave a comment to let us know which of these chai you have tried and which one is your go to favorite.

If you are a newbie in the kitchen, wondering where to begin or not wanting to spend the time figuring out the recipe instructions your mom gave you on the phone, social media is a great source for cooking.  Instead of being overwhelmed with lengthy recipes that are hard to follow,  we recommend following these Indian food bloggers! They will make cooking your favorite recipes easy and fun. Without further ado,   we present to you our favorite food bloggers:

1. The Chutney Life

Starting out with Palak Patel,  also known as thechutneylife (https://www.instagram.com/thechutneylife/). Palak grew up on the east coast in a large Indian family.  Her recipes are inspired by her mom’s cooking, but made with her own twists. If you are looking for Indian fusion recipes and meal ideas to make your toddlers happy, Palak is your girl. Her scrumptious recipes include mexican papdi chaat, tandoori veggie quesadillas, samosa chaat pizza, masala corn toast and tandoori chicken wings. Some of Palak’s toddler friendly recipes are moong dal pudla, khichdi and broccoli  quinoa tikki. Palak is a regular at Patel Brothers. Check out her Patel Brothers haul which lists some of her family favorites.

2. Ministry of Curry

Don’t have the time to cook for hours standing by the stove? Ministry of Curry is best known for her quick and easy instant pot and air fryer recipes. (https://www.instagram.com/ministry_of_curry/), Archana Mundhe is a former software engineer who grew up in a small town near Mumbai and moved to the U.S. in the late 90s. Some of her fail-proof recipes include mushroom masala, paneer tikka, masala fries, and dal makhani. Archana has a wide collection of vegetarian and nonvegetarian recipes.  She also likes to recreate viral Tiktok recipes such as pasta chip, feta pasta, ramen, and the tortilla trend. A few years ago, Archana published her first ever book entitled the ‘Essential Indian Instant Pot Cookbook’ that has been featured in Oprah Magazine, People Magazine, and Food52. 

3. Vegan Richa

Looking for vegan recipes? Vegan Richa has hundreds of clean and easy plant based recipes that you can follow. (https://www.instagram.com/veganricha/)

In addition, she has many recipes that are gluten-free and soy-free.  A few of her delicious recipes  include restaurant style aloo gobi, vegan cauliflower tikka masala,  pulled jackfruit sandwiches, vegan malai kofta, vegan paneer 65, vegan ras malai cake and vegan malai ladoo. Richa Hingle, based in Seattle, has two cookbooks - ‘Vegan Richa’s Indian Kitchen’ and ‘Vegan Richa’s Everyday Kitchen’. She has been featured in Buzzfeed, Huffington Post, Glamour and Oprah.com.

4. Pipping Pot Curry

Craving Indian food and searching for simple yet traditional indian recipes?

Meeta Arora (https://www.instagram.com/pipingpotcurry/), has a huge collection of vegan, vegetarian and nonvegetarian recipes from various regions of India. Some of her popular traditional recipes include pav bhaji, palak paneer, poha, butter chicken, chicken vindaloo, dhokla and gujurati khandvi. 

Meeta Arora is a former Product Specialist that resides in California. Meeta likes to create classic Indian recipes by using time saving modern kitchen appliances such as an instant pot, air fryer and kitchenaid. She has been featured on MSN, Buzzfeed, and Taste of Home.

The next time you find yourself looking for a new recipe idea or scrambling to make a quick dinner for your family after a long day of work, be sure to check out one of the food bloggers above. Their delicious recipes will leave you and your family satisfied and happy!  

Americans love their apple pie, Italians love their gelato and Indians love their Mithai. Mithai is a colorful sweet confection that comes in all colors, flavors, textures, shapes, and sizes. India is known for its over the top rich culinary cuisine.  It is also home to extraordinary desserts.  Just like pastry shops or gelato shops, there are entire shops dedicated to selling these scrumptious goodies. You can also find these sweet goodies at your local Patel Brothers store. 

What is Mithai?

Mithai is an Indian sweet confection primarily made from ingredients such as flour, milk, sugar, nuts, and ghee. Before the commercial era, countless hours were spent at home preparing these sweet treats. Aside from being served as dessert, mithai is traditionally served as a form of greeting, celebration,  and gift giving.  Mithai is a part of every Indian celebration. Mithai is commonly passed out in religious celebrations and given out as birth, engagement, and wedding announcements.  It's also a must have at Indian weddings. If you happen to attend an Indian wedding, you will find mithai being fed to the bride and groom by their family and being passed along to guests. Mithai is an important part of Indian culture and is found everywhere in India with different regional variations. 

The next time you go to an Indian sweet shop, you will no longer be overwhelmed by looking at all of the delicious options and spending time figuring out what ingredients each has as the list below will serve as a guide. Let’s go over five must have mithai that you will find in every mithai shop:

1. Gulab Jamun 

Perhaps, the most desired mithai in a mithai box, Gulab Jamun is a brown colored melt in your mouth mithai. This deep fried ball shaped mithai is made from milk solids, flour and sugar. Once deep fried and brown, it is soaked in a sticky syrup that consists of sugar, cardamom, saffron and rosewater for a few hours. Gulab Jamuns are typically served warm. 

2. Jalebi 

Having a live jalebi station for weddings and parties has now become the new trend as nothing beats eating fresh jalebis off the stove. Orange in color and often referred to as Indian funnel cake. This pretzel shaped mithai is made by frying dough batter. Once fried, jalebi is soaked in a sticky syrup that consists of water, sugar, cardamom and saffron. Jalebi is crunchy from the outside and juicy from the inside.  It can be served warm or cold.  Jalebi with milk is a popular breakfast item in North India.

3. Ladoo

Receiving a  box of ladoos from friends or family is usually an indication of happy news. There are multiple variations of this sphere shaped mithai. Yellow in color, besan ladoo is made by roasting besan (gram flour) in ghee,  sugar and nuts and made into balls. Ingredients similar to besan ladoo,  motichoor ladoo is prepared by deep frying tiny droplets of gram flour and mixing it into a sugar syrup and then shaping into round balls.  White in color, coconut ladoo is made from desiccated coconut, condensed milk, ghee and nuts.  Check out our foolproof coconut ladoo recipe.

4. Barfi

The interesting name is derived from a Persian word “barf” which means snow/ice. Barfi is described as soft milk based fudge. This triangle or diamond  shaped mithai is made from milk powder, condensed milk, sugar, and nuts and topped off with edible silver leaf. Some barfi flavors include pistachio, mango, chocolate, and kaju  (cashews).

5. Gajar ka halwa

A quintessential winter delight and the ultimate comfort mithai, gajar ka halwa originated in Punjab. Bright orange in color,  this indian  pudding is made by slow cooking grated carrots in ghee, milk, sugar and cardamom. 

Mithai has gained massive popularity recently, as chef extraordinaires around the world have put their creativity to the test and have come up with Indian fusion desserts like gulab jamun cheesecake, motichoor cream cheese cups and barfi cheesecake jars. Rich and decadent, each mithai has its own identity. Be sure to try one of these scrumptious delicacies as your sweet tooth will thank you and leave you for craving for more.

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, for most people, the last year was the most amount of time they have ever spent inside. For others, it was the year with the most amount of takeout ordered or the most amount of TV watched. While some people have discovered a new appreciation for cooking or baking while being stuck at home, others are itching to go back to safe and comfortable restaurant dining. As we reflect on the way food habits have changed in the last year, it is compelling to look at how food habits have changed throughout history.

The Netflix show ‘Cooked’ (2016), discusses the ways that food and cooking habits have formed and changed throughout history. In episode 2, entitled “Water,” the show ‘Cooked’ explains the history of pot cooking, the ways that different cultures use pots to cook staple meals, and the importance of having the right tools to create the perfect dish. Using this episode as our inspiration, we dove deep into the history and cultural relevance of cooking in a pot.

The History of Pot Cooking‍

According to this article, using fire to cook may have emerged around up to 300,000-400,000 years ago. There is evidence that humans were using fire in Qesem Cave in Israel, in addition to some evidence that humans may have used fire in a cave in Africa as far back as 2 million years ago! From what we know, the idea of using fire to cook has pretty much been around since humans have been around. Evidence suggests that primitive humans used fire to cook not only to improve the flavor of meat, but to kill bacteria as well. Even some 1.9 million years ago, humans knew that it was unhealthy to consume raw meat. Cooking meat also makes it easier to consume, so there are several benefits that humans gain in using fire to cook our food

Obviously when our neanderthalic ancestors were cooking, they were not using All-Clad pots and pans to prepare their meals. Tools used back then included birch bark and stone pots for stone boiling. There is evidence that around 25000-29000 BCE, people in China and Japan began using ceramic pottery to cook. But ceramic cookware is only safe on open air fires and in ovens, not on stovetops, so with time, technological evolutions including copper cookware and cast iron skillets were invented. Wood ranges and dutch ovens were introduced during the Victorian era. With industrialization in the 1800s, came more technological adaptations to cooking. The gas oven was patented in 1826 and the electric range was invented in 1892. For more details on the history and evolution of cookware, read the very informative article linked above.

The Cultural Importance of Pot Cooking‍

One point that the ‘Cooked’ episode touched on was the importance of seasonings used in pot cooking. The seasonings, herbs and spices used in a dish can be helpful clues as to the culture and cuisine of the food cooking within a pot. The ‘Cooked’ episode mentions two proponents of Indian cooking that also have nutritional medicinal benefits; star anise, which is a good antiseptic and mustard seed, which aids with gas. Other common spices used in Indian cooking include cumin, saffron and turmeric. These key herbs and spices used in different culture’s cuisines vary from country to country. Common key ingredients used in Chinese cooking include sesame oil and sesame seeds, ginger root and soy sauce. Common seasonings used in Italian cuisine include oregano, basil and garlic. The flavors that live inside of pot dishes are typically a dead giveaway as to where the dish is being cooked geographically around the world. Different herbs, spices and seasonings are cultural keys as to what country a certain meal derives from. There is a full list of the main herbs/spices used by different countries here. The shape and type of pot used for cooking can also be a clue into what culture’s dish may be cooking inside;  the type of clay pot used for Indian cooking is called Handi,  the type of ceramic pot used to cook Moroccan food is called a tagine, and it is shaped differently than the ceramic pot used for cooking Japanese cuisine, called a donabe. When cooking a traditional Japanese dish in a donabe, one may use herbs like mitsuba, shiso and negi and spices like wasabi, togarashi and shoga. But, when cooking in a traditional Moroccan tagine, you may be using herbs like onions, garlic, parsley and cilantro and spices such as salt, pepper, ginger and turmeric. 

Tools to Start Pot Cooking‍

If you’re interested in learning more about pot cooking, it’s history and cultural significance, watch the second episode of ‘Cooked’ on Netflix. If you’re already inspired to start mastering pot cooking yourself, here are some of the tools you may need: to learn about why a clay pot is crucial to Indian cooking, read our blog post here. To learn about the best pots and pans for different types of appliances and cooking, check out this helpful page.

According to the “Water” episode of ‘Cooked,’ Americans in 2016 spent an average of 27 minutes per day preparing food, compared to spending an average of 60 minutes per day preparing food in 1965. Now more than ever, thanks to the pandemic, we have more time on our hands-- so now is the perfect time to try to master the art of pot cooking.

Contributing Writer: Marissa Bachrach

Over the last few years, India’s street food scene has gained massive popularity everywhere as famous YouTube food vloggers Trevor James (The Food Ranger), Mark Weins and others have traveled to India to try Indian street food delicacies.  If you have lived in India or have visited India,  there is something exciting and fascinating about taking a quick break and stopping to eat your favorite street food from a street vendor.  Aside from the feeling of nostalgia, you experience the authentic taste and flavor of your favorite finger food. India is known for its rich history, culture, culinary cuisine and fashion.  It is home to extraordinary over the top smorgasbord street food. India’s street food is an experience itself, the taste is difficult to replicate in a restaurant setting.

What is street food?‍

Street food consists of ready to eat foods and drinks sold usually in a cart outside of a shopping market or a business hub. Street food is meant for immediate consumption.  Street food carts usually carry  finger foods or fast food and are usually cheaper compared to a cafe or restaurant.  You will find street food in every corner of India and each region has its own specialty to offer and the locals will tell you that the street food in their town or city is better than anything else you will try in India. In North India, popular street food items include vada pav, pani puri, bhel puri, chole bhature, aloo tikkis, pakoras, kachoris, and samosas. In South India, street food items include dosa, fried fish, and potato bondas.  

The food street scene in India is exceptional and the options are endless. We have compiled a list of five street foods that are bound to release an array of rich, bold, exotic flavors in your mouth and leave you craving for more.

1. Pani Puri also known as Gol Gappa‍

Perhaps everyone’s favorite street food, pani puri street carts are found all over India. The dish consists of mini puri shells which are deep fried and hollowed out. The puris are stuffed with chickpeas, potatoes, onions, and chilies and dipped in spiced tamarind water (pani) and mint chutney.  You are guaranteed to have a burst of flavors in your mouth when you try pani puri.  It is nearly impossible to have one. It is one of the most addictive street foods. Once you start eating pani puri, you will lose track of how many you ate. Watch our Pani Puri shots video recipe if you want to make your own.  

https://youtu.be/3Lf9wa3IbgU

2. Aloo Tikki‍

When it comes to street foods made solely with potatoes, Aloo Tikki takes the cake. Aloo Tikki is prepared by boiling potatoes and adding a variety of spices,  onions, green chilies and cilantro. The potato mixture is shaped into individual patties and deep fried to create a crispy outer layer yet remaining soft from the inside.  Aloo tikkis are usually served mint and tamarind chutneys. Aloo Tikki is known as one of the most delectable street foods in India.  It is also a staple food in Indian weddings and parties. We strongly recommend trying our Aloo Tikki recipe at your next dinner party. It is guaranteed to leave your family and friends talking about it for days to come. 

https://youtu.be/CRZj9qNCMX4

3. Pav Bhaji‍

Known as the king street food of India,  pav bhaji is a blend of mixed vegetable curry which includes potatoes, onions, carrots, peas, green peppers, tomatoes, and spices. The curry is usually cooked on a big griddle and served with warm buttery pan-toasted bread, onions, and lime. Unlike other street foods, Pav Bhaji is a wholesome and filling meal. Check out our easy Pav Bhaji recipe which can be served as dinner on any weeknight. 

https://youtu.be/EM7iBYtHFr0

4. Pakora‍

Chai’s favorite companion on a rainy day, Pakoras are spicy fritters made by dipping vegetables in a gram flour based batter and is deep fried. There are endless varieties of Pakoras, however, common varieties include onion, potato, spinach, and eggplant.  Pakoras are served with mint chutney.  Check out our easy to make crispy Pakora recipe.

https://youtu.be/IHOtgfC5498

5. Kulfi‍

India’s favorite traditional dessert, streetside Kulfi is served in a classic mold. Temperatures skyrocket during summers in India and streetside kulfi vendors are a blessing in disguise. Nothing beats eating kulfi roadside on a humid day. Kulfi is a frozen dairy dessert that is milk based and is richer and creamier compared to ice cream. As Kulfi is denser, it takes longer to melt than ice cream.  Popular kulfi flavors include malai, pistachio, and mango. Check out our easy foolproof Kulfi recipe.

https://youtu.be/tvxPnEu0uO8

Now that we have presented a mouthwatering list of popular top Indian street food, be sure to try Indian street foods the next time you visit India, it will transport you to gastronomical heaven. Until then, we suggest making a pit stop at your local Patel Brothers store to try some of these delicacies. 

Leave a comment to let us know which of these Indian street foods you have tried (or if we have missed your favorite).