Are you spice intolerant and avoid Indian food because you think it’s too spicy? Well, you’re not alone. Indian cuisine is often associated with spices and fiery flavours and not everyone enjoys the intense heat that can accompany these dishes.
Having said that, the diverse Indian food has much more to offer than just heat, and there are plenty of mouthwatering options for those with a mild palate who still appreciate the flavours of this vibrant cuisine.
Here are the most popular Indian dishes that will pamper your taste buds without overwhelming your spice tolerance level.
1. Butter Chicken
Not a fan of spicy food? No worries! Butter Chicken is a great choice for those who prefer milder flavours. Tender chicken pieces are cooked in a velvety tomato-based sauce with low-key masalas, enriched with cream and butter and served with naan bread or steamed rice, making it a magical meal. We bet you’ll absolutely love this iconic Indian curry.
2. Vegetable Biryani
Biryani is a fragrant rice dish that showcases the aromatic blend of spices in Indian cuisine. For a milder version, you can opt for a vegetable biryani, which combines basmati rice, mixed vegetables, and a medley of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. The flavours are delicate yet captivating, and the colourful vegetables add a refreshing touch. Serve it with raita (yoghourt-based side dish) to balance the flavours.
3. Malai Kofta
Malai kofta is a vegetarian delight that consists of deep-fried vegetable dumplings (made with mashed potatoes, paneer, and various vegetables), served in a creamy, mildly spiced tomato-based gravy. The creamy sauce, flavoured with cashews, poppy seeds, and mild spices like turmeric and Kashmiri red chilli powder, gives you amazing taste.
4. Palak Paneer
If you’re a fan of cheese, palak paneer, also known as saag paneer, is a must-try dish. This popular North Indian preparation combines paneer with a creamy spinach sauce cooked with onions, garlic, and a blend of mild spices, resulting in a smooth and flavourful gravy. The paneer cubes add a creamy and rich texture to the dish. Enjoy it with naan or rice for a wholesome meal.
5. Chicken Korma
Chicken korma is a classic Indian dish known for its mild yet aromatic flavours. The chicken is simmered in a luxurious gravy made with yoghurt, cream, and a variety of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. The dish often includes nuts such as almonds or cashews, which provide a subtle sweetness and a creamy texture. The gentle spices in chicken korma make it an excellent choice for those who prefer milder options.
6. Dosa
Dosa is a popular South Indian dish that resembles a thin, crispy pancake made from fermented rice and lentil batter. It’s typically served with a variety of chutneys and sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew). Dosa itself is not spicy, but the accompanying chutneys and sambar can be adjusted to suit your taste. Coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or mint chutney are great options to enhance the flavours of this beloved dish. Other south Indian dishes to try are uttapam, idly and medu vada.
7. Shahi Paneer
Shahi paneer is a rich and indulgent dish that showcases the royal heritage of Indian cuisine. Paneer is cooked in a creamy sauce made with a blend of cashews, almonds, and aromatic spices. The dish has a mild spiciness and a hint of sweetness, making it a fantastic choice for those who prefer milder flavours. The dish pairs well with naan bread or jeera rice.
Indian cuisine is incredibly diverse, and you can always ask for adjustments in spice levels when you order your food. Don’t hesitate to explore the vast array of flavours and spices that India has to offer.
In no mood to cook? No worries, just open All Eat app on your phone and start ordering Indian takeaway food. Simply enter your postcode to find the nearest Indian restaurants and get delicious Indian food delivered to you in no time.
