Who doesn’t love Indian food? At ChefOnline, we’re huge fans of regional Indian cuisine — and with the vast array of flavourful Indian takeaway dishes to choose from, it’s easy to get stuck in your comfort zone and order the same favourites (we mean you, Korma lovers!).
We understand that no one likes the dreaded “dinner regret,” but Indian food by region offers so much more variety than many people realise. Each area of India has its own cooking style, ingredients, and spice combinations that make its dishes truly unique.
Northern Indian Cuisine – Creamy, Comforting and Rich
If you fancy something milder for your Indian takeaway, look to the northern regions of India. Known for their creamy sauces infused with aromatic spices, onions, and garlic, these dishes deliver warmth and comfort in every bite. Popular curries include Rogan Josh, Butter Chicken, and Korma.
Northern India is also famous for its variety of breads, such as naan, paratha, and samosa, perfect for scooping up thick gravies. Punjab, a largely agricultural region, features fresh vegetables, lentils, and dairy products — think lassi, yoghurt, and ghee, often used in traditional recipes.
If you’re craving authentic North Indian flavours, try exploring North vs South Indian dishes for your next takeaway order.
Eastern Indian Cuisine – Fragrant, Subtle and Influenced by the East
Travel east, and you’ll notice a different landscape — and flavour profile! The eastern regions of India, with their wetter climate, are abundant with green vegetables, lentils, meat, and fish. Influences from Chinese and Mongolian cuisines can be tasted in dishes like momos (steamed dumplings similar to dim sum).
Eastern Indian cooking focuses on balance — light, aromatic, and delicately spiced meals that pair beautifully with rice.
Western Indian Cuisine – Dry, Diverse and Coastal
In contrast, Western Indian food reflects its hot, dry climate. It’s heaven for vegetarians, as the cuisine heavily features lentils, corn, pulses, and pickled vegetables. But as you move towards Goa’s coastal areas, the dishes transform into seafood delights, enhanced with coconut and tamarind.
Try a Goan fish curry or prawn balchão if you fancy a flavour-packed seafood dish. And for meat lovers, Rajasthani biryani offers a hearty, spiced option that perfectly captures the region’s bold character.
Discover more regional curry varieties in our guide to regional Indian curries.
Southern Indian Cuisine – Spicy, Coconut-Infused and Rice-Based
For those who love hot and spicy Indian food, the south is your paradise. Dishes like Sambar and Rasam use whole chillies and tangy, sour flavours that define the region’s cuisine. Dosa, a crispy lentil and rice crepe, and curried vegetables are popular staples.
Southern dishes often feature coconut milk and coconut oil, giving them a rich and distinct taste. Rice is the main carbohydrate here, reflecting the region’s tropical climate.
If you enjoy strong, fiery flavours, southern Indian cuisine will keep your taste buds tingling!
Authentic Regional Indian Sauces – The Heart of Every Curry
No guide to Indian food would be complete without mentioning the regional sauces that make each dish so memorable.
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Northern sauces are typically rich and creamy, made with yoghurt, cream, or butter.
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Southern sauces often feature coconut milk, curry leaves, and mustard seeds for depth and spice.
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Eastern sauces tend to be lighter, sometimes using mustard oil and subtle spices.
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Western sauces, particularly Goan, mix vinegar and coconut for a tangy, coastal touch.
Understanding these sauce bases helps you identify your favourite flavour profiles the next time you order online from ChefOnline.
Final Thoughts – Discover Your Favourite Regional Indian Dish
So, there you have it — a delicious overview of Indian cuisine by region. From the creamy comfort of Northern India to the fiery flavours of the South, each region brings something special to your plate.
If this has you craving a curry, visit ChefOnline and order authentic regional Indian food online — you might discover a new favourite dish!
And don’t forget to check out our other guides, like The Ultimate Guide to Indian Cuisine and Delicious Indian Breads You Have to Try.
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