10 Surprising Indian Foods That Make Tourists Fall Head Over Heels

Think Indian Food Is Just Butter Chicken and Naan? Think Again.

When tourists land in India, most expect the usual: spicy curries, creamy paneer, and maybe a lassi or two. But what they don’t expect? Fermented flavors, smoky simplicity, desserts made from lentils, and dishes that are shockingly tangy, pungent, or even bitter.

And yet, these very foods often become the highlight of their journey. Why? Because they are unforgettable, bold, and delicious in ways they never imagined.

Let’s dig in to 10 surprising Indian dishes that make tourists fall in love with India – one spoon at a time. Keep reading!

10 Surprising Indian Foods That Make Tourists Fall In Love

1. Pakhala Bhata (Odisha)

This is cold, fermented rice eaten with curd, mustard, fried vegetables, and green chillies. It may sound strange, but it’s cooling, simple, and full of flavour—especially in the summer.

2. Bhutte Ka Kees (Madhya Pradesh)

Grated corn is cooked slowly in milk, ghee, and spices. It’s soft, mildly spicy, and comforting. Most people have never had corn like this.

3. Kokum Saar (Goa and Maharashtra)

A sour soup made from kokum fruit, often served as a digestive drink. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect after a heavy meal.

4. Lasooni Dal Tadka (North India)

It looks like a regular dal, but it has fried garlic and smoky ghee on top. One spoonful is enough to understand why people love it.

5. Thukpa (Arunachal Pradesh/Sikkim)

A clear noodle soup with vegetables or meat, influenced by Tibetan cuisine. Light, nourishing, and comforting in the cold.

6. Litti Chokha (Bihar)

Wheat balls stuffed with roasted gram flour and served with mashed spiced vegetables. It’s smoky, earthy, and often becomes a tourist favorite.

7. Solkadhi (Konkan Coast)

A cool pink drink made with kokum and coconut milk. It may look sweet but is actually sour and refreshing. Tourists are surprised by the taste.

Also Read: 20 Must-Visit Caves in India for History and Culture Lovers

8. Black Sesame Chikki (Assam and Maharashtra)

This is a sweet and crunchy snack made with sesame seeds and jaggery. It has a nutty flavour and is healthier than most packaged snacks.

9. Panta Bhat (Bengal)

Another cold rice dish, this one is soaked overnight and eaten with raw onion, salt, and mustard oil. It sounds odd at first, but tourists enjoy its raw, bold taste.

10. Moong Dal Halwa (Rajasthan)

A rich dessert made from lentils, sugar, and ghee. Many tourists are surprised that something so sweet can be made from dal.

Final Thoughts

Most visitors come to India looking for famous dishes. But it’s these lesser-known foods that often leave a stronger impression. They are full of local stories, family traditions, and bold flavours.

If you’ve tried one of these, or if you think there’s a dish tourists should know about, share it in the comments. Let’s help more people go beyond the usual and discover the real taste of India.