Indian cuisine can offer quite a number of delicacies, but it can be difficult to be confronted with words and phrases that you may not typically come across on other menus. Luckily, there are just a few key terms that you should know in order to make the best choices for your restaurant order and ensure that you find your favourite Indian dish.

Here are eight Indian culinary terms to keep in mind the next time you're perusing an Indian menu:

1) Tikka

Tikka is a type of Indian dish that is typically made with chicken or lamb that has been marinated in yoghurt and a couple of other spices and then grilled or roasted. It may be served as an appetiser or main course and can be accompanied by rice or bread. If this is accompanied by the term "masala" on a menu, you can expect the dish to be full of flavour and spice.

2) Tandoori

Tandoori is an Indian cuisine that's cooked in a tandoor, which is a cylindrical clay oven that is used for cooking meat at high temperatures. The meat is typically marinated, resulting in a flavourful and juicy dish. Tandoori chicken is a popular option, but you can also find tandoori lamb, fish, and vegetables.

3) Korma

Korma is a type of Indian curry, typically made with chicken or lamb that has been simmered in a yoghurt-based sauce. It is often made with chicken, lamb, or vegetables and can be mild or spicy, depending on your preference. The spices included cardamom, cloves, and cumin and can be served with rice or bread.

4) Mughlai

Mughlai cuisine is a type of Indian cuisine that is typically associated with the Muslim community. It is known for its extremely rich and creamy dishes and often includes meat, poultry, and fish. Mughlai chicken is a popular dish and is made with chicken that is simmered in a rich and creamy sauce. Mughlai dishes are often served with rice or bread.

5) Madras

Madras curry is a type of curry that is typically made with a blend of hot spices, including chilli peppers, cumin, and mustard seeds. It is often made with chicken, lamb, or vegetables and can be served with rice or bread.

6) Makhni

Makhni curry is a type of curry that is usually made with a blend of butter, cream, and spices. Like Madras, this type of curry is also cooked with chicken, lamb, or vegetables and can be served with rice or bread.

7) Saag

Saag curry is a type of curry that is typically made with spinach, mustard greens, and other leafy greens, as well as a blend of spices. This type of curry is often served with rice or bread.

8) Shahi

Shahi curry is a type of curry that is made with a blend of cream and spices like Makhni, but it may have a more nutty flavour to it. Like other types of curry, Shahi is often served with rice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many Indian culinary terms that are important to know when ordering at an Indian restaurant. Knowing these terms will help you order the food you want and get the most out of your Indian dining experience.

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