For some, trying any type of new cuisine can cause anxiety. What if it doesn’t taste good? What if the foods are too spicy? To take some of the concern out of the first visit to an Indian Restaurant in Washington DC, there are a couple of menu items that offer a great place to start. They tend to be popular with most patrons and give the perfect introduction into the cuisine.
Naan
Even those that haven’t been in an Indian Restaurant in Washington DC may have already given naan a try. These fluffy pieces of bread, round in shape, accompany many dishes. One of the things about naan is that it is incredibly versatile.
Use it to try out various dips available at the beginning of the meal. Use it to soak up some of the juices and sauces from the main course. It’s even possible to wrap up some of the food in the naan to enjoy.
Samosa
If the goal is to start with an appetizer or something small and handheld to begin the meal, the samosa is a great choice. This pocket food is usually filled with vegetables and seasonings. Most of the time, expect to find peas, potatoes, and onions.
The spice level of this portion of the meal can vary. Some restaurants tend to be more subdued while others use this as a vehicle to show off a wide range of flavors. Consider asking about the spice level in advance if this is a point of concern.
Tandoori Chicken
For the main course, tandoori chicken is an ideal choice. It gives a good sampling of some of the spices common to Indian cuisine using something simple that most people enjoy: baked chicken.
For the most part, it isn’t an overly spicy dish, giving those with an aversion to heat a great starting point. Be prepared to pick up on hints of paprika, as well as a smoky flavor from the cooking method.
It’s always a good idea to try something new. Nowhere is this as true as it is in cuisine. Check out Heritage India for a wide range of foods that offer authentic flavors. You can always stick with the three menu items above to get yourself started.
