Eastern Indian food is so different from the foods of the western world that is stands out as a specialty. As the multiple cultures migrate across the globe, more and more foods are shared through out. Indian food is known for its spice. There is plenty of spice in the food. The spices and other flavors in the food act in nutritional and medicinal purposes as well. Across India the foods to have some varying changes depending on the area the cook is from. The cooking method of the food from this area also is very different from other countries.
The food from northern India is developed around the main dish. Because rice is plentiful in the area there are many dishes made with rice. There is the Saag made with Hak which is a green leaf vegetable and it is often served like a dipping sauce. Some of the areas of the north utilize other forms of flours like wheat, maida and besan to create their chapatis. Chapatis is a type of flat bread. There are other kinds of breads from this area like Tandoori, Naan and Rumaali. This area shows the Mughlai influence on their foods.
West Indian food reflects the more desert cuisine of the area. Because there isn’t much vegtables in the area they substitute with a variety of pickles and preserves, dals and achars. They take many elements from the north and the south of the country including the breads and many fish dishes. The Bombay Prawn and Pomfret are a favorite of the area. You can find these dishes in many of the Bombay Restaurants.
Bengali and Assamese influences are noticeable in the East Indian foods. Fish and rice is basic staple of the diet eaten in this area. They like a large variety of fish in the east. Hilsa is a poplular delicacy that is wrapped in a pumpkin leaf and then cooked. Bamboo Shoot also shows the influence of the Bangalis in the food. Milk is a popular ingredient to some of the sweet dishes like Roshogolias or Sandesh.
The Southern part of the country produces many dishes with of course the spices and fish but also coconuts. The Food in Tamil Nadu use a special ingredient called tamarind in their dishes that add a hint of sour to the dish. No matter where you get your food in India make sure your ready for the super spice.