Indian Cooking - A Beginners Guide

What is Indian cooking

To truly impress your guests with an authentic Indian feast, it's important to understand the basics of Indian cooking. At its core, Indian cuisine emphasizes the use of fresh ingredients, bold spices, and unique combinations of herbs that result in a medley of flavors and aromas. Ingredients like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cardamom are just a few of the commonly used spices that give Indian dishes their distinct taste.

Additionally, Indian cooking often involves a variety of cooking methods like roasting, frying, and simmering that each bring out different flavors in dishes. For example, roasting spices before adding them to a dish can enhance their flavor, while simmering ingredients together can create a harmonious blend of flavors.

It's also worth noting that Indian cuisine varies greatly based on the region of India. The North, South, East, and West regions each have their own distinct culinary traditions. As a result, the flavors and ingredients used in a particular dish can vary greatly depending on where it originated.

By understanding the basics of Indian cooking and the unique traditions of different regions, you'll be able to create an authentic Indian feast that will impress even the most discerning of guests.

South Indian cooking

South Indian cuisine is particularly noteworthy for its unusual ingredients, flavors, and techniques. This style of cooking relies more heavily on rice, lentils, and coconut. Also, since most of the South is close to the ocean, fish and seafood are a staple ingredient in many dishes. Also, mustard seeds, red chili peppers, and curry leaves are commonly used spices in South Indian cuisine. Thus, offering a distinctive punch of flavor that sets it apart from other Indian styles.

East Indian cooking

East Indian cooking, offers a unique twist on the classic flavors of Indian cuisine. With plenty of mountains and beaches, this region has an abundance of rain. This means it has plenty of fresh greens. So while they do eat meat, their diet has plenty hearty veggies. For example, the use of mustard oil, fish, and potatoes is common to create savory dishes bursting with flavor. However, like the North and South Indian cuisine, the East Indian style also incorporates fragrant spices and fresh ingredients.

West Indian cooking

The West Indian cooking is equally noteworthy. This cuisine reflects a melting pot of cultures, including African, European, and Indian influences, resulting in a distinct blend of bold and spicy flavors.

Geographically, a large portion of the West has a lot of deserts with hot and dry climates. So fresh vegetables are scarce. They do have a lot of pickles and chutneys in their diet. However, some parts like Goa in the West are rich in large green forests. This region has a rich history of foreign trade influenced by Portuguese colonization.

Some staple ingredients in West Indian cooking include coconut, ginger, turmeric, and Scotch bonnet peppers, which lend a unique depth of flavor to dishes. Curries, stews, and jerk preparations are common and seafood is also a prevalent feature due to the region's proximity to the ocean.

Incorporating West Indian dishes into your feast can add a new and exciting dimension to your menu.

Equipment for Indian cooking

To truly impress your guests with an authentic Indian feast, you can invest in some key pieces of equipment. Here's our list of equipment used for Indian cooking. However, you don't have to buy these and you can easily substitute some of them.

• Firstly, a large, heavy-bottomed pot called a kadhai is essential for frying various ingredients like spices, vegetables, and meats. A kadhai is similar to a wok but with steeper sides. This makes it easier to stir and toss your ingredients without them spilling over. Of course you can just as well use a heavy bottom saute pan at home.
• Next, stainless steel pots and pans in various sizes. You'll need these for cooking rice, making curries, and frying.
• Also, a spice grinder or mortar and pestle are necessary to grind whole spices, such as cumin and coriander seeds, into fresh powders. This will greatly enhance the flavor of your dishes.
• And we often use a rice cooker to make perfectly fluffy basmati rice. But a large pot with a tight-fitting lid works just as well.
• Other handy tools to consider include a pressure cooker, which can speed up the cooking process, and a tawa or griddle for making breads like roti and naan.

Indian cooking techniques

To truly understand Indian food it's important to understand the cooking techniques used in Indian cuisine.

• One of the most important techniques is the use of spices. Indian cooking relies heavily on a complex blend of spices to create depth and richness of flavor. It's not uncommon to see recipes that call for a dozen or more spices, each carefully chosen to complement the other ingredients in the dish.
• Another important technique is the use of a tawa or griddle. We use this flat, circular pan to make a variety of breads, including roti, naan, and paratha. The trick to achieving the perfect texture is to cook the bread on a hot tawa, flipping it often to ensure that it cooks evenly.
• Finally, traditional Indian cooking often involves long, slow cooking methods. This is where a pressure cooker can come in handy. By using a pressure cooker, you can significantly reduce the cooking time for dishes like lentil soup or biryani, without sacrificing flavor.

With these techniques, you'll be ready to make some of the staple ingredients that are essential for any authentic Indian feast.

Staple Indian ingredients

Indian cooking is all about the complex blend of spices that give each dish its unique flavor. To truly impress your guests with an authentic Indian feast, it's essential to have a few staple ingredients on hand.

• One of the most important ingredients in Indian cooking is ghee. It is clarified butter with a nutty, slightly sweet flavor. Ghee is used extensively in many Indian dishes, including biryani and dal makhani.
• Other essential spices include cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, which is a blend of spices typically including cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and black pepper.
• In addition to spices, lentils and legumes are also central to Indian cuisine. Some common varieties include chana dal, urad dal, and mung dal. For example, dishes like dal, a flavorful lentil soup, and chana masala, a spicy chickpea stew, use these types of pulses.
• Finally, no Indian feast would be complete without rice. For example,biryanis often use Basmati rice, a long-grain rice. And dishes like pongal and kheer, use a sticky, short-grain rice.

With these staple Indian ingredients on hand, you'll be able to create a feast that will impress your guests.

Substituting Indian ingredients

With a basic understanding of how to customize your Indian curry to your liking, it's time to explore various ingredient substitutes. This will enable you to add more depth and flavor to your dish. In fact, cooking is all about experimenting. So, don't be afraid to swap out ingredients to see what works best.

• Starting with protein, you can try substituting chicken for lamb, beef, or goat, depending on your preferences. Or, if you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas.
• And when it comes to vegetables, feel free to mix and match to create unique flavor combinations. Instead of potatoes, try sweet potatoes or butternut squash. Also, swap out green peas for snap peas or green beans. And use kale or spinach instead of collard greens.
• You can also experiment with different spices and herbs. Turmeric, coriander, and cumin are the foundation of most Indian curry dishes. But you can also add in cinnamon, cloves, or cardamom for a warmer, spicier flavor. And fresh herbs, such as cilantro and mint, can also add a burst of freshness to your dish.

Customizing your curry heat level

By now, you must have realized that Indian curry is all about the spices and the heat level. Some may prefer a mild and sweet flavor, while others might like to sweat it out with a fiery-hot curry.

• If you are cooking for a crowd, it's best to keep the curry mild and serve hot pickle or chutney on the side. Thus, allowing everyone to adjust the heat level according to their preference.
• However, if you're cooking for yourself and want to experiment with different heat levels, there are a few ways to do so. Firstly, you can adjust the spice level by using less or more of the chili powder or cayenne pepper in the recipe. And if you're not sure how much to use, start with a small amount and taste the curry as it cooks. You can always add more spice later on.
• Another trick to adjust the heat level is to use different types of chili peppers. Indian Kashmiri chilies are very common in Indian cooking. But if you prefer a milder flavor, use jalapeno or serrano peppers. They have a lower heat level compared to the spicy Thai or habanero chili peppers. However, if you're a fan of the heat, adding a few teaspoons of red pepper flakes or chopped-up ghost peppers will do the trick.
• And as with any recipe, it's all about experimenting and finding what works for you. So, don't be afraid to play around with the spices and add more or less heat to create a curry that is perfect for your taste. And just add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt to cool down the heat level.

Tips for serving and storing your curry

Now that you know how to customize your curry, it's important to know the best way to serve and store it. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your delicious creation:

• First, consider the type of rice you'll serve with your curry. Basmati rice is a popular choice and pairs well with Indian flavors, but you can also try experimenting with other types of rice or even quinoa.
• When it comes to serving, consider adding a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top for added flavor and texture. Naan bread or papadums are also great accompaniments.
• And if you're feeling adventurous, try serving your curry with add-ons like chutney, yogurt, or pickled vegetables. You could also pair it with a side salad to balance out the rich, spicy flavors.
• Also, if you're not planning on serving your curry right away, it's important to store it properly to maintain its flavor and texture. First, allow it to cool. Then, place it in an airtight container. Now, you can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze your curry for up to three months.
• And don't forget about leftovers. Curry can be a versatile ingredient for meal prep. For example, you can use it as a filling for wraps or mix it into scrambled eggs for a breakfast twist.
• When reheating your curry, add a splash of water or broth. This helps bring back some of the moisture that may have evaporated during storage. And remember to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving again.

With these tips, you'll be able to enjoy your customized chicken curry for days to come.

The non-Indian pantry

For those who do not cook Indian food often, the list of spices needed to make a curry can be overwhelming. But, these days you do not need to buy a long list of ingredients. Here are two spices that you will need to make any simple Indian curry from scratch. Just two!!

• Curry powder - Is a spice blend that is common in Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi dishes. The exact ingredients in curry powder vary depending on the region and the recipe. But, they typically include a mixture of spices such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, ginger, and chili peppers. Curry powder blends may include other spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, mustard seeds, fennel seeds, and fenugreek.
• Garam masala powder - Another must-have spice in Indian cooking. The exact ingredients used in garam masala can vary depending on the recipe and the region. But it typically includes a mixture of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, black cardamom, etc. Other spices that may be included in garam masala blends are bay leaves, nutmeg, mace, and star anise.

Appetizers to start off the meal

Start off your authentic Indian feast with some delectable appetizers that will tantalize your guests' taste buds. Samosa, a savory street food, is a popular choice. And you can prepare it with a variety of ingredients, such as potatoes, chickpeas, and tamarind chutney. Another classic appetizer is the minced meat cutlets, or Kheema (meat) stuffed capsicum.

These appetizers not only taste amazing but also set the tone for the rest of the meal. They prepare your guests for the flavors and spices to come in the main course. And speaking of the main course, get ready to indulge in some of the most delicious Indian recipes that will leave your guests begging for seconds.

The main course

Get ready to impress your guests with the main course of your authentic Indian feast, which features rich and flavorful dishes that capture the essence of Indian cuisine. For meat lovers, consider serving butter chicken. This is a creamy and aromatic dish made with tender chicken cooked in a tomato-based sauce and seasoned with a blend of fragrant spices. For vegetarians, there are plenty of options, such as chana masala, a hearty dish made with chickpeas cooked in a spicy tomato-based sauce.

Another popular vegetarian option is palak paneer. It features cubes of Indian cottage cheese cooked in a creamy spinach sauce that is infused with aromatic spices. And for those looking for something a bit lighter, consider serving a refreshing raita. This is a yogurt-based dish that is seasoned with herbs and spices. And you can make it with a variety of ingredients, such as cucumbers or tomatoes.

You can serve these main course dishes with a side of fragrant basmati rice or naan bread. And don't forget to serve some extra chutneys or hot sauce for guests who want to add an extra kick of heat to their meal.

Side dishes to complement the meal

In addition to the main course, there are many side dishes options. They can complement your authentic Indian feast and take it to the next level. One option is aloo gobi. This is a dish that features potatoes and cauliflower that are cooked to perfection with a blend of spices and herbs. Another side dish that you can serve is baingan bharta. It is made with roasted eggplant that is mashed and cooked with onions, tomatoes, and spices for a flavorful and aromatic dish.

And to add some crunch to your meal, consider serving papadum, a thin and crispy Indian cracker. It comes in a variety of flavors, such as cumin or black pepper. Additionally, a simple salad made with fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomato, and onion can bring a refreshing contrast to the bold and complex flavors of the main course.

Satisfy your sweet tooth: Indian desserts

Once your guests have enjoyed their fill of the savory and spicy main course, it's time to introduce them to the delightful world of Indian desserts. Indian sweets are famous for their unique textures and flavors, and they make for the perfect end to any meal.

For example, yogurt helps digestion. So, while raita is served with the meal, a glass of lassi is often served after the meal.

One of the most popular Indian desserts is Gulab Jamun. These are fried, milk-based dumplings that are soaked in a sugar syrup. These little balls of sweetness are soft, spongy, and melt in your mouth. Another classic Indian dessert is Ras Malai. It is made from soft and fluffy cheese balls soaked in a chilled creamy milk syrup. The rich and creamy texture of this dessert is sure to impress your guests.

And if you're looking for something lighter and refreshing, consider serving some Mango Kulfi. This is a frozen dessert made from sweetened condensed milk and pureed mangoes. It's the perfect balance of sweet and tangy and is sure to be a hit with your guests, especially during the hot summer months. Also, a falooda or mango falooda is a perfect dessert in summer.

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In conclusion, hosting an authentic Indian feast is a surefire way to impress your guests and introduce them to a new world of flavors. From understanding Indian cooking and equipment to staple ingredients and cooking techniques, we've covered everything you need to create a memorable dining experience.

With a selection of delicious appetizers, main courses, side dishes, and desserts, your guests will be talking about your dinner party for days to come. So don't be afraid to experiment and have fun in the kitchen. As they say in India, "Guests are like gods," and with the right preparation, you can make them feel like royalty. Happy cooking!