What Makes an Indian Restaurant Truly Authentic?

Indian cuisines are famous for their original flavours that come from the infusion of spices like cloves, cinnamon, black pepper and others. The hearty ingredients used for preparation provide vibrant flavours to each dish.

Indian restaurants serving dishes like Dal makhani, Paneer butter masala and others prepare these dishes using original (authentic) spices and ingredients making it the favorite of everyone.

However, not all Indian restaurant in Calgary preserve this authenticity in their cuisine; there are additional elements that truly set them apart as genuinely authentic establishments. Through this article let’s explore the key elements that make Indian restaurants truly authentic.

1. The Influence of Regional Cuisines

India is famous for the diversity of its language, culture and food. From North India to South India each region is famous for its special dishes such as Punjab is famous for Chole Bhature, whereas Madrasi Dosa is a favourite of South Indians. 

Added diversity of such dishes to their menu makes Indian restaurants truly authentic as they help customers to enjoy various regional cuisines of the country in one place. Following authenticity they offer dishes that reflect regional specialties, making them the favorite of food lovers.

2. Using Fresh, Quality Ingredients

To keep it authentic Indian restaurant chefs follow a cooking technique that demands fresh, high-quality ingredients only. Fresh spices enhance texture and develop a unique aroma in the dish. They do not use freshly ground spices rather they add whole spices because they bring perfection to the natural taste. Highlighting their dishes authentically they add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cardamom to create the complex layers of flavour that define Indian cuisine.

Being authentic restaurants, they do not compromise on quality and make use of seasonal and local produce and even imports specialty ingredients from India to preserve the authenticity of the various cuisines.

3. Mastering Traditional Cooking Techniques

Holding the title of authentic Indian restaurants, they follow traditional cooking techniques which have been famous for years since the cuisine was invented in India. Such techniques are slow-cooking, layering, using clay tandoors and others.

Meeting perfection in flavours they begin preparing any dish by following the art of tempering spices in hot oil. These techniques require time, patience, and expertise, and they’re what elevate Indian dishes to a whole new level.

4. Authentic Flavors, Not Just Spice

Many believe that Indian cuisine is only about spiciness. But the thing is they offer much more than heat and spice. Original ingredients used by restaurants add a whole new meal experience. They are added with balance and prescription. Indian restaurants maintain authenticity by focusing on the blend of savory, sweet, sour, and spicy flavors, enhanced by a variety of ingredients.

For instance, in an Indian curry you will experience the sweet tang of tomatoes and the richness of curd or coconut milk. The use of fresh herbs such as Curry Patta plays a vital role in balancing the flavours.

5. Cultural Ambiance and Service

Indian restaurants maintain authenticity not only by serving lavish dishes but also by equally focusing on the services and ambiance of the restaurant. From decor to service by staff these restaurants reflect culture with each dish served. Making the dining experience of the customers unforgettable they add perfection in lighting, utensils, furniture and overall decor of the restaurants. 

Conclusion

An authentic Indian restaurant in Calgary is not just about serving a plate of food it’s about offering a rich cultural experience, from the flavors to the ambiance to the hospitality. By serving regional dishes with original flavours they allow customers to enjoy true Indian flavors at one place.