Dubai, known for its towering skyscrapers, luxurious lifestyle, and vibrant culture, also boasts a rich culinary scene that caters to diverse palates. Among the myriad of international cuisines available, Indian foods hold a special place, offering a symphony of flavors, spices, and textures that tantalize taste buds. Therefore, let’s delve into the top Indian foods one must try in Dubai, each accompanied by a fascinating fun fact.
7. Vegetarian Samosa
A quintessential Indian snack, the Indian samosa is a popular street food delicacy loved by many. Crispy, triangular pastry filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes lentils, it’s a savory delight.
Fun Fact: The samosa originated in the Middle East before making its way to the Indian subcontinent during the medieval ages?
Where to try?
- Location: Bombay Bites, Bur Dubai.
6. Classic Masala Dosa in Dubai
Hailing from South India, Dosa is a thin, crepe-like pancake made from fermented rice and lentil batter, served with a variety of chutneys and sambar (lentil soup). It’s a versatile dish, enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. So, you may enjoy this meal anytime of the day!
Fun Fact: The world’s largest dosa was made in Dubai in 2014, measuring a whopping 16.68 meters long!
Where to try?
- Location: Mami’s Illam, Discovery Gardens, Dubai.
5. The healthy Dal Makhani in Dubai
A creamy and indulgent lentil dish simmered with butter, cream, and a blend of spices, Dal makhani is a staple in North Indian cuisine. It’s often paired with rice or naan for a wholesome meal.
Fun Fact: Dal makhani was reportedly a favorite dish of former Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who would often request it during his travels abroad.
Where to try?
- Location: Rang Mahal, Business Bay, Dubai.
4. Everyone’s Favourite – Tandoori Chicken in Dubai
Marinated in yogurt and a blend of spices, Tandoori chicken is traditionally cooked in a clay oven (tandoor), resulting in juicy, tender meat with a smoky flavor and vibrant red color. For this reason, it’s a must try Indian foods for meat lovers.
Fun Fact: The tandoor, a cylindrical clay oven, has been used for cooking in the Indian subcontinent for over 5,000 years.
Where to try?
- Location: Tandoori Dawat Restaurant
3. The Rich Butter Chicken in Dubai – Considered one of the best Indian Foods!
One of the most popular Indian dishes worldwide, Butter Chicken features tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based gravy, infused with butter and aromatic spices. Undeniably, It’s a comfort food at its finest.
Fun Fact: Butter chicken was invented by accident in Delhi in the 1950s when leftover tandoori chicken was mixed with tomato gravy, resulting in a delicious new dish.
Where to try?
- Location: Cloud Gourmet, Shaikh Zayed Road, Dubai.
2. Iron rich – Palak Paneer in Dubai
This authentic Indian dish is a nutritious and flavorful dish, Palak Paneer combines fresh spinach (palak) cooked with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and spices, resulting in a vibrant green curry that’s both healthy and delicious.
Fun Fact: Paneer, a fresh cheese common in Indian cuisine, is believed to have originated in ancient Persia and was introduced to India by Afghan and Iranian travelers.
Where to try?
- Location: Restaurant Amritsr, Al Karama
1. Food of the Nawabs – Chicken/Mutton Biryani
A fragrant rice dish layered with marinated meat (often chicken or mutton), aromatic spices, and herbs, Biryani is a culinary masterpiece that originated in the Indian subcontinent. That is why, each region boasts its own unique variation of this beloved dish.
Fun Fact: The word “biryani” is derived from the Persian word “birian,” which means “fried before cooking.” Thus, highlighting the technique of frying the rice and meat before layering and cooking them together.
Where to try?
- Location: Armani/Amaal, Dubai
Hoping that you’ll want to try these Indian Foods on your trip to Dubai! Also, if you want to capture your memories in Dubai, Contact Lokaso photoshoot to book your photoshoot session now!
