Indian cuisine is subjected to various contributions and influences since time immemorial. Since the origin and concept of consumption of food till the preset days, Indian food had experienced a tremendous change. People started following cooking style and adopted eating habits according to their religion. Religion played a major role in shaping the food habit and thus food became inseparable from religious beliefs. Moreover, various invasions contributed to the diversity in today`s Indian Culinary. At present the Indian food is recognised all over the country. Popularity of Indian Food has added a new dimension to the Indian cooking style.
Indian food has gained admiration in the international field because of its subtle and sophisticated cooking method. The use of various spices adds flavour and a different aura. The cuisine of India is diverse as its rich cultural heritage. This has contributed to the varied characteristics of Indian Dishes. Every region has its own style of cooking and is influenced by a certain religion or invasion. The food culture of India not only offers spicy, mouthwatering treats but it also serves some of the most delicious desserts. This diversity in Indian cooking has brought the Popularity of Indian Food in the outside countries.
The rising worldwide Popularity of Indian Food makes the whole world known to the traditional Indian cuisine. In the 16th century, European merchants traded with India. They took back various spices and resources from the country. In addition to that, India remained a British colony and during that period Indian cooking style was influenced by the English style. After the British rule, Europeans took back with them the rich cooking style of the Indian Sub continent and the cuisine of the country. The first Indian eatery was opened in Portmans Square in London in the year 1809. It was called Hindustani Coffee House. At present there are over 10,000 Indian eating joints who serve the British clientele.
The universal Popularity of Indian Food was initiated from the irresistible tastes of the Indian culinary. One of the most sought after dishes served in all the western countries at these present days is the Chicken Tikka Masala. Interestingly, this food item of the Indian cuisine had become the favourite "Britain`s national dish" and replaced the iconic status held by fish and chips. Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is another popular dish in Western countries and also in the Arab world. In addition to that, the curry is a dish which has been labeled as the "pan-Asian" dish.
Popularity of Indian Food is also due to the exceptional cooking style. The food cooked in the country uses minimum fat and low heat is used so that the natural oils are brought out and maintains the natural aroma. Moreover, Indian culinary can be traced as a `fusion food`. It is prepared by using local ingredients which is mixed with Indian cooking technique. Indian joints have become well-liked around countries like NY, New Jersey, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Toronto, Vancouver in Canada. Apart from Europe and North America, Indian Food became popular in South East Asia also. Indian cuisine has considerable influence on Malaysian cooking styles and is also well accepted in Singapore. Other cuisines which borrow Indian influence include Malay cuisine, Vietnamese cuisine, Indonesian cuisine and Thai cuisine. The spread of vegetarianism is credited to ancient Indian Buddhist practices.
