Let’s Debunk These Top 5 Indian Food Myths

No one can simply deny the deliciousness of Indian food. However, not everyone is keen to try this cuisine because of the myths and misinformation that surround it. Thus, we'll dispel some myths about Indian food and present a true view of the cuisine. Read on to learn more.

Myth #1: It’s All about Curry

The term "curry" now refers to all Indian food. Indeed, this erroneous, oversimplified, and all-encompassing word sprang from a misunderstanding.

Few Indian cuisines are truly referred to be "curries," and the bulk of dishes with gravy are never referred to as "curries." In India, dishes are referred to by their specific names.

In and of itself, the term "curry" is incorrect and misleading. Despite the fact that India has hundreds of gravy-free dishes, curry has become synonymous with them. All of these dishes, as well as many others, are gravy-free Indian fare.

Myth 2: Indian Cuisine Is All Hot and Spicy

Because of the variety of spices used to season it, Indian cuisine is spicy. Spices are an important part of the Indian diet, and while most Indian foods contain some spice, this does not always imply that they are hot. Yes, Indian food is spicy, but it isn't searing!

While certain Indian meals, such as Vindaloo and Rasam, are highly hot and spicy, others, such as Dal (lentil soup), Rajma (kidney beans), Chhole (chickpeas), Idli (rice cake), and Dosa (rice crepe), are not. Furthermore, preferences for spicy cuisine vary by state and area within India.

Myth #3: Naan Is India’s Bread

Indian bread comes in a variety of flavors. In India, there are approximately thirty different types of bread, one of which is naan. Naan is a type of leavened bread popular in northern India. It's baked in a tandoor oven. It's a popular component in Punjabi cooking.

Apart from its seeming delectability, naan is popular outside India since most Indian restaurants serve North Indian food. Because it is substantial and filling, most Indian families do not eat it on a daily basis. Chapati (also known as roti) is the most popular bread in India. It is a flatbread with a mild nutty flavor that is fried on a hot griddle.

Myth #4: India Practices Western Vegetarianism

While most Western vegetarians would shun Punjabi egg curry, the vast majority of Hindu vegetarians would.

Vegetarianism is practiced by around 40% of Indians. Even those who eat meat on a regular basis do so infrequently. There are significant differences, however, between vegetarianism in the West and vegetarianism in India.

Vegetarians in the Western world do so for health and environmental reasons, as well as to be nonconforming and distinct in society. While some vegetarians in India are motivated by health and environmental concerns, the vast majority are motivated by religious or cultural beliefs.

For many in India, vegetarianism means upholding the status quo, but in the West, vegetarianism typically means defying the established order.

Furthermore, unlike other vegetarians, the vast majority of Indian vegetarians avoid eggs and egg-containing items.

Myth #5: Indian Street Food Is Hazardous to One’s Health

Many visitors to India want to enjoy as much of the country's exquisite street food as they can, but safely!

While the taste of street food varies by area in India, it is best to avoid it for sanitary reasons. Despite this, if you exercise caution, you should be able to eat street cuisine without falling sick. As such, avoid simply drinking from the water, ice, and raw fruits and vegetables sold by street food sellers.

Consult hotel staff or do an online search to find the city's most well-known street food vendors. Because of the great quality of their meals, certain street food vendors in India have become celebrities. The cleaner the street food vendor, the more popular and large it is.

Conclusion

The delicious flavors of India are sure to make one’s mouth melt. More than enjoying the Indian cuisine, it might be helpful to learn the facts from the myths! This way, you can enjoy Indian food more, whenever and wherever you may please.

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