When it comes to Indian cuisine, few places capture the authentic flavors and variety like Aria Dining in Milpitas. Indian food is known for its vibrant spices, rich flavors, and diverse range of dishes, offering something for every palate. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Indian cuisine or trying it for the first time, Aria Dining serves a curated menu of must-try dishes that showcase the best of Indian culinary traditions. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the top Indian dishes you simply can’t miss at Aria Dining.
1. Biryani: The King of Rice Dishes
One of the most iconic and beloved Indian dishes, biryani is a must-try at Aria Dining. Biryani is a fragrant rice dish cooked with layers of spiced meat (usually chicken, lamb, or goat) or vegetables, and seasoned with a variety of aromatic spices like saffron, cardamom, and cloves.
Why You Should Try It:
- Flavor Profile: The perfect balance of spices makes each bite of biryani a rich and flavorful experience. The slow-cooked method used in Aria’s kitchen ensures that every grain of rice absorbs the full flavor of the spices.
- Options: At Aria Dining, you can try both the chicken biryani and vegetable biryani, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this classic dish, regardless of dietary preferences.
Recommended Pairing:
Biryani is best enjoyed with a side of raita (a cooling yogurt-based side dish with cucumbers and spices) to balance the heat and add a refreshing touch to the meal.
2. Tandoori Chicken: A Grilled Delight
A favorite for fans of grilled meats, tandoori chicken is another top dish you’ll find at Aria Dining. This dish is named after the traditional clay oven, or tandoor, where the marinated chicken is cooked over an open flame. The marinade typically includes yogurt, lemon juice, and a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala.
Why You Should Try It:
- Smoky Flavor: The tandoor cooking method imparts a unique smoky flavor and a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken moist and tender on the inside.
- Healthy Option: Tandoori chicken is a lighter, healthier option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful dish without the heaviness of sauces or gravies.
Recommended Pairing:
Pair tandoori chicken with naan (a type of Indian flatbread) or roti, along with a side of mint chutney to enhance the flavors.
3. Butter Chicken: A Creamy Comfort Food
For those who love rich and creamy curries, butter chicken (also known as murgh makhani) is a dish you can’t miss. This North Indian dish features tender chicken pieces cooked in a silky, tomato-based gravy enriched with butter and cream.
Why You Should Try It:
- Comfort Food: Butter chicken is the ultimate comfort food, with its smooth, slightly sweet gravy that pairs perfectly with rice or naan.
- Mild Heat: Unlike some Indian curries, butter chicken is mild, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer less spicy dishes.
Recommended Pairing:
Butter chicken is best paired with basmati rice or garlic naan to soak up the creamy sauce.
4. Paneer Tikka: A Vegetarian Delight
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option that’s as flavorful as the meat dishes, paneer tikka is a must-try. Paneer, a type of Indian cottage cheese, is marinated in spices and yogurt, then grilled to perfection.
Why You Should Try It:
- Perfect for Vegetarians: Paneer is a great source of protein for vegetarians, and the marination process infuses it with the bold flavors of Indian spices.
- Versatile Dish: Paneer tikka can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course, and it pairs well with salads or chutneys.
Recommended Pairing:
Serve paneer tikka with mint chutney or a side of salad to complement its rich, grilled flavors.
5. Lamb Rogan Josh: A Rich, Aromatic Curry
For those who love lamb, rogan josh is a classic Indian curry that you must try at Aria Dining. Originating from Kashmir, this dish features tender pieces of lamb cooked in a rich, spiced gravy made with yogurt, garlic, and a host of spices such as cardamom and cinnamon.
Why You Should Try It:
- Deep Flavors: Rogan josh is known for its deep, complex flavors, thanks to the slow-cooking process that allows the lamb to absorb the rich spices.
- Aromatic: The use of spices like cinnamon and cardamom gives this curry a fragrant aroma that enhances the overall dining experience.
Recommended Pairing:
Lamb rogan josh is best paired with jeera rice (cumin-flavored rice) or butter naan to complement the rich curry sauce.
6. Masala Dosa: A South Indian Classic
If you’re looking to explore the flavors of South India, masala dosa is a must-try dish at Aria Dining. A dosa is a crispy, thin crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter, filled with a spiced potato mixture.
Why You Should Try It:
- Unique Texture: The dosa is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, offering a delightful contrast in textures.
- Vegan-Friendly: Masala dosa is a great option for vegans and vegetarians alike, packed with flavor without any animal products.
Recommended Pairing:
Masala dosa is typically served with sambar (a lentil-based soup) and coconut chutney, making it a well-rounded meal with a mix of flavors.
7. Chole Bhature: A North Indian Favorite
For a hearty, filling dish, chole bhature is a popular choice among North Indian cuisine lovers. It consists of chole (spicy chickpea curry) served with bhature (deep-fried bread).
Why You Should Try It:
- Satisfying and Hearty: This dish is perfect for those who want a filling meal with bold flavors.
- Bold Spices: Chole is made with a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and amchur (dried mango powder), giving it a tangy, spicy kick.
Recommended Pairing:
Chole bhature is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a side of pickle or yogurt for added texture and flavor.
8. Gulab Jamun: A Sweet Finish
No Indian meal is complete without dessert, and gulab jamun is one of the most beloved Indian sweets. These soft, spongy dough balls are soaked in a sweet syrup flavored with cardamom and rose water.
Why You Should Try It:
- Rich and Decadent: Gulab jamun is the perfect dessert for those with a sweet tooth, offering a rich, syrupy sweetness in every bite.
- Classic Indian Dessert: This is one of the most popular desserts in Indian cuisine, and a must-try for anyone new to Indian food.
Recommended Pairing:
Enjoy gulab jamun with a cup of masala chai for a truly authentic Indian dessert experience.
