Indian Food Explained

A beginner-friendly guide to what to order at an Indian restaurant, covering vegetarian starters, curries, breads, thalis, desserts and dining tips at Kalpna Edinburgh.

Discover the difference between biryani, pulao and other Indian rice dishes, including their origins, cooking techniques, regional variations and vegetarian options.

Discover Indian lentil dishes and learn how dal varies across regions, from everyday dal tadka and sambar to rich dal makhani, and why it is central to Indian vegetarian cooking.

Discover what dosa is, how fermented rice and lentil batter creates its signature crisp texture, the different types of dosa, and where to enjoy authentic dosa in Edinburgh.

Discover how Indian pickles, chutneys, raita and papad add flavour, texture and balance to traditional Indian meals, and learn how to enjoy these classic accompaniments.

Explore traditional Indian festival foods and the vegetarian dishes enjoyed during Diwali, Navratri, Holi, Onam, Pongal and Raksha Bandhan across India.

Discover the key differences between South Indian and North Indian vegetarian food, from rice and wheat to spices, curries, cooking styles, breakfast dishes and traditional meals.

Explore the rich variety of Indian desserts, from North Indian gulab jamun and Bengali rasgulla to South Indian payasam, and discover the traditions behind India's favourite sweets.

Discover the fascinating story of Indian chaat, from its origins and regional varieties to its journey from Indian street food to modern restaurant dining.

Discover what sattvic food means, its key principles, how it differs from everyday Indian cuisine, and where to enjoy vegetarian food in Edinburgh at Kalpna.

What does pure vegetarian really mean in Indian cuisine? Discover how it differs from standard vegetarian and vegan food, what it excludes, and why the distinction matters.

Confused by an Indian menu? This beginner's guide explains common Indian restaurant menu terms, from thali and tadka to naan, dosa, curry and biryani, so you can order with confidence.

New to Indian dining? Learn how to order, share and enjoy a traditional Indian meal, from choosing dishes for the table and using serving spoons to eating with your hands and pairing rice with bread.

Discover eight distinct Indian regional vegetarian cuisines, from the rich flavours of Punjab and balanced cooking of Gujarat to South Indian staples, Rajasthani dishes and Kashmiri specialities. Learn what makes each tradition unique and where to explore regional Indian vegetarian food in Edinburgh.

Discover what Jain food is and how the principles of ahimsa shape this distinctive Indian vegetarian cuisine. Learn about Jain ingredients, dietary restrictions, popular dishes and how to experience Jain food in Edinburgh.

Discover the world of Indian sweets, from barfi and gulab jamun to ladoo. A complete mithai guide covering types, ingredients, and traditions.

Discover what Gujarati food is, from its distinctive sweet, sour and spicy flavours to iconic dishes such as dhokla, khandvi, thepla and undhiyu. Learn about Gujarat's vegetarian food traditions and how to experience authentic Gujarati cuisine in Edinburgh.

Everything you need to know about dosa in Edinburgh: the main types, how the batter is made, its health benefits and where to try it.

Explore vegan Indian street food, from bhel puri to samosas. Learn what's authentic, what's healthy, and where to try it in Edinburgh.

Discover the real health benefits of Indian spices, from turmeric to cumin, how they aid digestion, and how Kalpna Restaurant uses them fresh.