From the vibrant streets of Mumbai to the cultural heart of Kashmir, Miri Mary brings the diverse regions of India to life with a modern and sustainable twist.
At Miri Mary Indian Restaurant, we are passionate about offering more than just traditional Indian food. We’re committed to presenting authentic flavors with a contemporary flair in the heart of the Netherlands. Recently, we had the pleasure of speaking with Nirvaan, our culinary expert, to explore the vast and varied world of Indian cuisine. According to Nirvaan, Indian food is incredibly diverse, with each region offering unique dishes, spices, and cooking methods.
“It’s nearly impossible to define Indian cuisine with just one dish per region,” Nirvaan explained. “In India, every 100 kilometers, the food, language, and culture change. There are at least 40-50 distinctive dishes unique to each area.”
Despite this, Nirvaan shared a glimpse into India’s culinary diversity by highlighting one iconic dish from each region: North, South, East, and West.
"It’s nearly impossible to define Indian cuisine with just one dish per region"
West India: Vada Pav from Mumbai
In Mumbai, Vada Pav is the ultimate street food, uniting people from all walks of life. This deep-fried potato ball, coated in chickpea batter and served in a bun with spicy chutneys and fried chilies, is a symbol of Mumbai’s inclusive and vibrant culture. Nirvaan described Vada Pav as a “society equalizer,” loved by everyone—from Bollywood celebrities to workers and locals.
South India: Dosas and Idlis
In the southern part of India, Dosas and Idlis are staple dishes, made from fermented rice and lentil batter. Dosas are crispy crepes, while Idlis are soft, steamed rice cakes. Both are often served with sambar (a spiced lentil curry) and various chutneys such as coconut, tomato, and peanut. These versatile dishes are enjoyed at any time of day in South India.
East India: Litti Chokha from Bihar
Litti Chokha is a traditional dish from Bihar, deeply rooted in the region’s culture. Litti is a whole wheat dough ball filled with gram flour and spices, baked over coal or wood. The dish is paired with Chokha, a mix of roasted vegetables like eggplant, potatoes, and tomatoes, seasoned with mustard oil and spices. This beloved dish has a personal touch in every family, symbolizing tradition and comfort.
North India: Chole Kulcha
Chole Kulcha is a popular street food from North India, featuring two components: chole (spiced chickpea stew) and kulcha (stuffed flatbread). Served with pickled onions and chilies, this hearty dish offers a burst of flavor and is a favorite among street vendors across India.
