There are many varieties of rice and everyone has their favorite. My favorite is Basmati rice; I like the aroma and texture of Basmati rice. Rice can be very plain or very colorful. Rice is easy to cook and can be served as a side dish or a main dish. Plain rice is served with lentils, dal, or a gravy-based dish.

Samosas are probably the most popular Indian appetizer and are often served as hors d’oeuvres. This recipe is for traditional north Indian Samosa.

Spicy potatoes are a great dish to serve for appetizer, snack or side dish.

This is a great “anytime” meal. Spinach Parathas are whole-wheat Indian flatbread stuffed with a spicy spinach filling.

This exotic sweet and sour chutney is a delicious condiment. This chutney can be called the ketchup of the east! Tamarind chutney is delicious with samosas, pakoras, drizzled over dahi vada, bhel poori, and any kind of chat. This is also delicious as a dipping sauce for French fries, as a spread over crackers, a zesty addition to a rice dish, and even as a veggie dip.

Perk up your meal with this savory chutney. This chutney is best served as a side dish with any kind of stuffed Paratha or over plain white rice.

Upma Sooji is a great dish for breakfast or brunch.

Vegetable cutlets are filled with a great blend of vegetables and spices. These are great as an appetizer, afternoon snack with tea, or as a side dish with dinner.

Pakoras are an all-time favorite snack in India- perfect for a rainy day at home or at night for a cocktail party! Pakoras are delicious paired with a cup of hot spicy Indian Chai.

Vegetable pulav has a mix of vegetables and spices. This is a great dish for get-togethers, especially for lunch. If you are not in the mood to prepare a big meal, use vegetable pulav as a one-dish meal with yogurt, pickle, papadam or chutney.