When it comes to Indian cuisine, there are many different regional dishes and flavors to choose from. Authentic Indian food can be hard to find outside of India, but there are some great restaurants in Toronto that serve up delicious and traditional Indian dishes. If you’re looking for a place to eat authentic Indian food in Toronto, here’s what you need to know.

The best Indian restaurants in Toronto offers a wide variety of dishes, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Some of the most popular dishes include tandoori chicken, butter chicken, dal makhani, paneer butter masala, aloo palak, and biryani. These dishes are typically served with rice or naan bread.

If you’re looking for something more casual, try an Indian buffet. Buffets offer a large selection of dishes at one time, so you won’t have to wait long for your meal. Many buffets also offer unlimited drinks and desserts.

The best Indian food is made with fresh ingredients cooked in traditional methods.

Here’s why Indian food is authentic.

1. Fresh Ingredients.

When cooking Indian cuisine, freshness is king. All spices used must be freshly ground. Spices should never be stored in airtight containers because they lose potency quickly.

2. Traditional Methods.

Traditional recipes were passed down orally for generations. There was no written record of these dishes until recently. Today, however, we have access to books and online resources that provide detailed instructions on how to prepare these dishes.

3. Authentic Recipes.

Authenticity is defined as “being true to its original form.” Authentic Indian food follows this definition.

4. Spicy Flavors.

Spice flavors are meant to be hot. Some dishes contain chilies, which are milder varieties of peppers. Other dishes use a combination of chili peppers and other spicy ingredients.

5. Vegetarian Options.

Vegetarians often enjoy Indian food because it has many meatless options. Popular dishes include vegetable korma, spinach curry, and eggplant paratha.

6. Rice Dishes.

Rice is considered a staple in Indian cuisine. It’s usually paired with lentils, vegetables, and/or protein.

7. Desserts.

Desserts are often enjoyed after dinner. They may include fruit, milk sweets, or puddings.

8. Sweeteners.

Sugar isn’t common in Indian cuisine. Instead, honey and jaggery (unrefined sugar) are used.

9. Spice Combinations.

Many dishes combine multiple spice blends. For example, garam masala contains cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, black pepper, ginger, and bay leaves.

10. Curry Leaves.

Curry leaves are native to South Asia. They add a unique flavor when added to curries.

11. Onions.

Onions are used extensively in Indian cuisine. They’re often sauteed with garlic before being combined with other ingredients.