Discover the Authentic Taste of Traditional Indian Dishes at Top of India
Leave a Comment / By topofindia / February 17, 2025
If you’re in Spokane Valley and yearning for the rich, diverse, and aromatic flavors of India, then Top of India is the place to visit! Our restaurant brings you the finest traditional Indian dishes that capture the true essence of Indian culinary culture. We’re passionate about offering a dining experience that takes you straight to the heart of India. With our team of expert chefs hailing from different regions of India, we ensure that every dish is prepared authentically, using the freshest ingredients, and served with warmth and hospitality.
Our aim is simple: to immerse you in the vibrant world of Indian cuisine, offering flavors and dishes that you won’t find anywhere else in Spokane Valley. So, whether you’re a seasoned Indian food enthusiast or new to these exciting flavors, you’re sure to discover something delightful at Top of India!
Why Are Traditional Indian Dishes a Must-Try?
Indian cuisine is a rich mosaic of diverse flavors, textures, and aromas. Each dish tells the story of India’s cultural diversity, and the use of spices, herbs, and techniques is an art that has been passed down for generations. Here’s why you should dive into traditional Indian dishes:
- Bold and Aromatic Flavors: Indian food is known for its complex flavor profiles that balance spices like cumin, coriander, cardamom, and turmeric. From tangy to savory, each dish is a burst of flavors that engages your taste buds.
- Health Benefits: Many traditional Indian dishes are made with fresh ingredients and spices known for their health benefits. For example, turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and ginger is great for digestion.
- Endless Variety: Indian cuisine offers an impressive variety of dishes that range from spicy curries to delicate rice-based dishes, light dosas to rich stews. Whether you prefer vegetarian or meat-based meals, there’s something for everyone.
- Tradition and Culture: Every dish in India has a history and is a part of the cultural fabric of the country. The recipes have been perfected over centuries, and at Top of India, we strive to honor that rich culinary tradition.
Top Traditional Indian Dishes You Can’t Miss
Indian cuisine offers a wide range of dishes, each bursting with distinct flavors and spices. At Top of India, we specialize in offering a selection of traditional Indian dishes that are beloved by people all over the world. Here are some dishes you absolutely have to try when visiting us:
- Butter Chicken
Butter chicken, or “murgh makhani,” is one of the most iconic dishes in Indian cuisine, especially in the North. This dish features tender, marinated chicken cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce made with butter, cream, and an array of warming spices like cumin, garam masala, and cardamom. The result is a smooth, rich, and indulgent curry that pairs perfectly with naan bread or rice. If you’re new to Indian food, this dish is the perfect introduction to the world of flavors. - Biryani
Biryani is one of India’s most beloved rice dishes. This dish is a fragrant mix of basmati rice, marinated meat (usually chicken, lamb, or goat), and aromatic spices like saffron, cinnamon, and cloves.
The layers of flavor come from the slow cooking method, where rice and meat are cooked together, allowing the spices to infuse every bite. Served with a side of yogurt or raita, biryani is a filling and flavorful dish, often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations.
- Samosas
One of India’s most popular street foods, samosas are crispy, deep-fried pastries stuffed with a spiced mixture of potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat. The outer shell is crunchy and golden, while the inside is a warm, flavorful blend of ingredients.
Samosas are usually served with chutney—sweet tamarind chutney or tangy mint chutney—and make the perfect snack or appetizer to kickstart your meal.
- Masoor Dal (Red Lentils)
Masoor dal is a humble yet hearty dish made from red lentils, which are cooked with spices like cumin, turmeric, and garlic. This comforting dish is often served with rice or flatbreads like roti.
Masoor dal is not only delicious but also highly nutritious, offering a good source of plant-based protein and fiber. It’s a staple in many Indian households and showcases the simplicity and depth of traditional Indian vegetarian cuisine.
- Palak Paneer
Palak paneer is a classic vegetarian dish from North India that consists of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a spiced spinach gravy. The smooth and slightly bitter spinach complements the soft, mild paneer perfectly, making this dish a favorite among vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. The vibrant green color of the dish is as appetizing as its taste, and it pairs wonderfully with roti or rice. - Chole Bhature Chole bhature is a North Indian specialty that features spicy chickpeas (chole) cooked in a blend of spices and served with deep-fried, puffy bread known as bhature.
This dish is hearty and satisfying, with a beautiful balance of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. It’s often enjoyed as a brunch or lunch item and is an integral part of street food culture in India.
Explore Regional Influences in Traditional Indian Dishes
One of the best things about traditional Indian dishes is the incredible diversity found in different regions of India. From the rice-centric meals of the South to the rich gravies of the North, each region has something unique to offer. Here’s a closer look at some regional influences:
- South India: Rice, Coconut, and Spice
South Indian cuisine is known for its rice-based dishes, such as dosa (thin, crispy crepes) and idli (steamed rice cakes).
The South is also famous for its use of coconut in both savory dishes and desserts, as well as curry leaves and mustard seeds. Dishes like sambar (lentil soup) and rasam (spicy soup) are staples, often served with rice. The flavors tend to be lighter and more tangy, with a focus on fresh ingredients.
- North India: Creamy Curries and Tandoor Dishes
The North of India offers rich and indulgent curries, often made with cream, yogurt, and butter, creating a smooth and velvety texture. Dishes like butter chicken, rogan josh, and dal makhani come from the North and are known for their deep, aromatic flavors. In addition to curries, the North is also famous for its tandoor-cooked dishes, such as tandoori chicken and naan bread, which are baked in a traditional clay oven. - West India: Sweet, Savory, and Spicy Delights
The cuisine of Western India, particularly from Gujarat and Maharashtra, is marked by its use of both sweet and savory flavors. Dishes like pav bhaji (spicy vegetable curry served with soft bread rolls) and dhokla (steamed savory cakes made from rice and chickpea flour) are popular in the West. This region also uses ingredients like jaggery (unrefined sugar) and peanuts to add a unique twist to their dishes. - East India: Fresh Flavors and Seafood
East Indian cuisine, particularly from Bengal, is heavily influenced by the abundance of fish in the region. Dishes like macher jhol (fish curry) and shorshe ilish (hilsa fish in mustard gravy) are incredibly popular. In the East, rice is a staple, and meals are often lighter but packed with flavor. The use of mustard oil and fresh vegetables enhances the overall taste.
The Top of India Experience: More Than Just a Meal
At Top of India, we believe that eating is an experience that should engage all your senses. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll be transported to India through the warmth of our hospitality, the rich aromas of our kitchen, and the vibrant atmosphere of our restaurant. Here’s what makes our dining experience special:
- Authentic Indian Flavors: Our chefs use traditional recipes and ingredients to bring you the true taste of India.
- Welcoming Ambiance: The decor of our restaurant reflects the colorful and inviting spirit of India, ensuring that your meal is a memorable one.
- Exceptional Service: Our staff is friendly and knowledgeable, ready to help you navigate the menu and make recommendations based on your preferences.
- Diverse Menu: Whether you’re craving a vegetarian meal or a rich meat curry, our menu offers something for everyone.
Conclusion: Taste the Magic of Traditional Indian Dishes at Top of India
Indian cuisine is a journey through history, culture, and flavors, and traditional Indian dishes are the heart and soul of this culinary adventure. At Top of India, we bring this magic to Spokane Valley, offering an authentic dining experience that transports you to the vibrant streets of India. With each dish carefully crafted to preserve the rich traditions of Indian cooking, you’re in for a treat with every bite.
- Visit us today at 11114 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley, WA 99206.
- Explore our full menu and make a reservation at Top of India Restaurant.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned lover of Indian cuisine, we guarantee you’ll fall in love with our dishes and leave with a full stomach and a happy heart.