Rangoli
Indian Cuisine
About Indian Cuisine
Indian cuisine is a rich and diverse culinary tradition that has evolved over centuries, blending flavors, spices, and cooking techniques from various cultures and regions. The foundation of Indian cooking lies in the skillful use of spices, not only to enhance taste but also for their health benefits. Over time, perfecting the balance of these spices has become an art, resulting in the vibrant and aromatic dishes India is known for today.
India’s diverse geography and cultural heritage have given rise to distinct regional cuisines. Each state offers its own unique flavors, influenced by local ingredients, climate, and traditions. Additionally, Indian cuisine has absorbed influences from Persian, Greek, Afghan, Portuguese, and British culinary styles, creating a dynamic and ever-evolving gastronomic experience. However, the unifying element across all Indian dishes is the use of fresh herbs and a variety of spices that create bold and unforgettable flavors.
A traditional Indian meal often includes a combination of meat, poultry, or seafood, along with vegetable dishes, lentils (daal), rice, or bread. Sides such as yogurt-based raita, chutneys, and pickles add depth and contrast to the meal. While bread is a staple in the northern regions, rice dominates in the southern parts of India.
Our Story
Established in 2000, Rangoli Indian Cuisine has been dedicated to bringing the authentic flavors of India to our guests. Over the years, we have expanded our offerings to include catering services, an on-site banquet facility, and an all-you-can-eat buffet, ensuring that every guest enjoys a true taste of India in a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere.
The name "Rangoli" (pronounced run-goalee) originates from a traditional Indian folk art used to decorate homes and places of worship. Rangoli symbolizes warmth and hospitality, values that we uphold in every aspect of our restaurant. From the beautifully intricate rangoli-inspired artwork on our walls to the artistic presentation of our dishes, every detail reflects our commitment to authenticity and hospitality.
The stunning paintings adorning our restaurant are the creations of renowned Indian artist Dr. Dinesh Sharma, former Head of the Fine Arts Department at the University of Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. His work adds a touch of cultural elegance, enhancing the ambiance of Rangoli Indian Cuisine.
Debunking Common Myths About Indian Food
Myth 1: Indian food is just curry Curry is not a single spice but a style of cooking that involves blending multiple spices in different proportions. Indian cuisine offers an incredible variety of dishes beyond curry, from tandoori grills and biryanis to dosas and chaats, each with its own unique taste and preparation method.
Myth 2: Curry is a spice The term "curry" originates from the Tamil word ‘Kaari,’ meaning gravy. The first commercial curry powder was developed in Madras for export to the UK, much like Italian spice blends. Authentic Indian cooking involves combining fresh herbs and spices rather than relying on pre-made blends.
Myth 3: Indian food is always spicy and hot Spicy does not always mean hot. Many Indian dishes are flavorful without being overly spicy. The level of heat can be adjusted to personal preference, ranging from mild to extra hot. Northern Indian cuisine tends to be milder, with creamy dishes like koorma, while southern Indian food often features bolder flavors.
Health Benefits of Indian Cuisine
Indian cuisine is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:
- Many Indian dishes are vegetarian, offering high fiber and low cholesterol options.
- Cooking oils used are primarily vegetable-based, with minimal saturated fat content.
- Tandoori cooking methods help reduce fat content in meats by allowing excess fat to drip away.
- Indian food is made from fresh ingredients with minimal processed content and no artificial additives like MSG.
At Rangoli Indian Cuisine, we take pride in crafting dishes that celebrate India’s culinary heritage while maintaining a focus on quality, freshness, and nutrition. Whether you're a longtime lover of Indian food or exploring it for the first time, we invite you to experience the authentic flavors and warm hospitality that define Rangoli.