Spice, Fire, and Love: A Complete Gastronomic Guide to India

5 February 2026

3 minutes to read

Spice, Fire, and Love: A Complete Gastronomic Guide to India

India is not just a journey; it is a true test for your taste buds. Here, the scent of curry follows you from the snowy Himalayas to the sunny beaches of Goa, and every meal tells the story of an entire region.

When planning a trip with Travellizy, be prepared: your perception of food is about to change forever. Indian cuisine balances six tastes, but for a tourist, it often becomes a balance between "incredibly delicious" and "help, my mouth is on fire!". Let's figure out exactly what deserves a spot on your plate.

Legendary Classics: Where to Start

1. Butter Chicken (North India / Delhi)

Tender chicken in a creamy tomato sauce. This is Delhi's calling card. The dish has a mild, sweet taste thanks to cream and cashew nuts.
Caution: Contains lactose and nuts.
Price: $4–$7 per portion in a decent restaurant.

2. Biryani (Hyderabad / Lucknow)

Aromatic rice with spices and meat. in Hyderabad, it can be quite spicy, while in Lucknow, it is more fragrant and mild. By the way, Air India serves traditional biryani on board, allowing you to start your gastro-tour while still in the sky.
Price: $3–$6.

3. Samosa (All of India)

Crispy pastries. In Punjab, they are made large and filling, while in the south, they are smaller and spicier.
Price: $0.50–$1 for 2 pieces.

Expanding Horizons: New Flavors and Regional Hits

4. Vindaloo (Goa) — VERY SPICY!

A Portuguese legacy. Pork or chicken marinated in wine vinegar with lots of garlic and red chili peppers. This is one of the spiciest dishes in the world.
Tip: Sensitive individuals and those with stomach issues should be extremely careful.
Price: $5–$8.

5. Masala Dosa (South India / Karnataka)

A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentils. Served with coconut chutney and sambar (vegetable stew). It is safe for the stomach and barely spicy.
Price: $1.5–$3.

6. Rogan Josh (Kashmir)

Aromatic lamb cooked in a sauce of red peppers (which provide color rather than heat) and dry ginger. A very rich and "meaty" dish from the North.
Price: $6–$10.

7. Palak Paneer (North India)

Soft paneer cheese in a thick puree of spinach and spices. This is a vegetarian favorite. The dish is usually moderately spicy and very healthy.
Caution: Contains dairy products.
Price: $3–$5.

8. Fish Curry (Kerala / Bengal)

On India's coast, fish is king. In Kerala, it is cooked with coconut milk and curry leaves, giving it a gentle tropical flavor.
Price: $4–$7.

9. Gulab Jamun (All of India)

Dessert balls made of milk solids soaked in a sweet syrup with rose water. Extremely sweet!
Price: $1–$2 per portion.

⚠️ Hygiene and Safety: The "Golden Water Rule"

India does not forgive carelessness. To ensure your trip booked on Travellizy isn't spoiled, remember the main rules:

Bottled water only: Never drink tap water. Even when brushing your teeth, use bottled water (check that the seal is intact when buying).
No ice: Street stalls often make ice from regular tap water. It's better to refuse it completely.
Wash hands or use sanitizer: Do this before every contact with food. In India, it is customary to eat with your right hand, so clean palms are your immunity.
Fruits: Choose only those you can peel yourself (bananas, mangoes, oranges).

How to Fly to the Flavors of India?

It's simple — book your plane tickets to India on the Travellizy website. We will help you find the best flights so you can spend your savings on another portion of prawns in Goa or a luxurious dinner in a Jaipur palace.

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