Taste Atlas, the renowned food-ranking website, released its much-anticipated list of the 100 Best Dishes in the World. This annual event ranks the most celebrated dishes from various cultures, recognizing the artistry behind global cuisine. Indian food once again secured a place on this prestigious list, with Butter Garlic Naan landing among the top 10, and other Indian favourites such as Tikka and Tandoori also making a mark.
INDIA’S PRIDE: BUTTER GARLIC NAAN AT NO. 7
Butter Garlic Naan, a beloved Indian bread, was ranked 7th in the world. This flatbread is made from all-purpose flour and cooked until it attains a soft, slightly charred texture. The naan is then generously seasoned with a mouth-watering butter-garlic mix, making it a flavourful side dish to many Indian curries.
This bread is often paired with the rich, spiced flavours of chicken tikka masala or butter chicken. It’s perfect balance of softness and robust garlicky flavour has won over global food lovers, making it a top contender in the Taste Atlas ranking.
TANDOORI AND TIKKA: INDIA’S SPICY STARTERS
In addition to Butter Garlic Naan, Tikka and Tandoori were ranked at numbers 47 and 48, respectively. These dishes reflect the diversity and depth of India’s non-vegetarian culinary tradition.
Tandoori is a dish made by marinating meat—often chicken or lamb—with yogurt and a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Once marinated, the meat is cooked in a tandoor, a traditional clay oven that imparts a smoky, charred flavour to the dish. It is typically served as a starter, accompanied by spicy red chutney.
Tikka, another Indian favourite, usually involves chunks of marinated meat grilled to perfection. This dish is often skewered and cooked over an open flame, offering a smoky yet juicy flavour profile. Both Tandoori and Tikka are staples in Indian cuisine, celebrated for their bold flavours and versatile pairings.
GLOBAL APPEAL OF INDIAN FOOD
Indian cuisine’s popularity across the globe can be attributed to its bold use of spices and its balance between sweet, salty, and tangy flavours. Whether it’s the rich gravies of North India or the spicy, coconut-based curries of the South, Indian food offers something for every palate.
TOP 10 BEST DISHES
- Picanha, Brazil
Brazil’s grilled beef cut, known for its juicy tenderness, topped the list. Picanha is typically cooked over an open flame and seasoned with coarse salt, offering a rich flavour that makes it a must-try for meat lovers. - Roti Canai, Malaysia
This Malaysian flatbread is often served with a side of curry. Made by repeatedly folding and flipping the dough, Roti Canai has a flaky, buttery texture that complements various savory dishes. - Phat Kaphrao, Thailand
A beloved street food, Phat Kaphrao is a stir-fried dish made with Thai basil, garlic, chili, and either pork, chicken, or beef. It’s served over rice with a fried egg on top. - Pizza Napoletana, Italy
Italy’s classic Pizza Napoletana is famous for its thin, soft crust and simple yet flavourful toppings, typically including tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil. - Guotie, China
Guotie, commonly known as pan-fried dumplings, is a Chinese delicacy featuring crispy, browned bottoms and juicy, flavourful fillings. - Khao Soi, Thailand
This fragrant Thai coconut curry noodle soup, hailing from northern Thailand, features a rich blend of spices and crispy noodles, often paired with chicken or beef. - Butter Garlic Naan, India
India’s butter-garlic-infused naan earned its place among the world’s elite foods, thanks to its versatility and unforgettable flavour. - Tangbao, China
These giant soup dumplings are a culinary adventure. Tangbao’s thin, delicate dough holds a hot, savory broth and a filling of pork or crab, offering a burst of flavour with each bite. - Shashlik, Russia
Russia’s Shashlik is a skewered and grilled meat dish, typically served with vegetables. It’s simple seasoning lets the meat’s natural flavours shine through. - Phanaeng Curry, Thailand
Phanaeng Curry is a thick, creamy Thai dish that balances sweet, salty, and spicy flavours. It’s often served with meat and rice, making it a hearty, satisfying meal.