Order Online 
Book An Appointment
Book A TableTop 4 Indian Food Myths You Need to Know
Indian food has a reputation like no other cuisine. It’s colourful, flavourful, and packed with history. But, over the years, a number of myths and misconceptions have clouded people’s understanding of it. Whether it’s due to pop culture, limited exposure, or just a few wrong assumptions, Indian food often ends up being misunderstood
From fiery curries to calorie-packed indulgences, there’s a lot people get wrong about this diverse and delicious cuisine. If you’ve held back from trying (or cooking) Indian food because of what you’ve heard, this article is for you. We’re here to bust the top four myths about Indian food, so the next time someone hesitates about trying it, you’ll have the facts to prove them wrong.
Myth #1: “Indian Food Is Always Too Spicy”
This might be the most common misconception about Indian food. While some Indian dishes are spicy, the level of heat varies based on the dish, region, and how it’s prepared. India is a vast country with diverse culinary traditions, and not every region leans heavily on heat.
Take South Indian coconut-based dishes like avial or idli-sambar—they have a mild yet flavourful profile. Or consider the creamy butter chicken, a favourite for people new to Indian cuisine, which is rich and slightly sweet. The beauty of Indian cooking lies in its ability to adjust spices to suit everyone’s taste. Not all dishes come with a kick; some are as mild as comfort food gets!
Pro tip? If you’re at an Indian restaurant, don’t hesitate to request the spice level you’re comfortable with. Personalisation is always an option.
Myth #2: “Indian Food Is Unhealthy”
It’s easy to think of Indian food as rich, oily, and indulgent, especially if your exposure is limited to buttery curries or fried snacks. But the truth is, traditional Indian food is one of the healthiest cuisines in the world. Meals are often a balanced combination of proteins, carbs, vegetables, and healthy fats.
Take dal (lentils), for example—this high-protein staple is a perfect source of plant-based nutrition. Similarly, Indian cooking uses spices like turmeric, cumin, and ginger not just for flavour but also for their health benefits. Turmeric is renowned for its powerful anti-inflammatory benefits, while ginger is celebrated for its ability to support healthy digestion.
Of course, like all cuisines, certain festive or restaurant-style dishes might be heavier on fats or sugar, but that’s not the daily norm. Roti, fresh vegetables, and lentil-based stews are as clean and nutritious as it gets.
Myth #3: “Indian Food Is Only About Curries”
Another big myth! While curries are an important part of Indian cuisine, they’re only a fraction of the variety India offers. Indian food is about much more than just wet, saucy dishes.
Ever tried biryani, a spiced, slow-cooked rice dish packed with layers of flavour? Or dosa, a perfectly crisp rice and lentil crepe? And don’t forget the countless snacks like samosas, chaat, or pakoras that are legendary across the globe.
Desserts like gulab jamun, kheer, and jalebi add a sweet note that’s hard to resist. The point is, there’s so much more to explore beyond just curries.
Myth #4: “Indian Food Is Hard to Cook”
Many beginners are intimidated by the idea of cooking Indian food. They picture massive spice racks, hours in the kitchen, and complicated recipes. While traditional recipes can be time-intensive, there are plenty of simpler alternatives for daily cooking.
For example, a one-pot lentil dal is as easy as throwing everything into a single pan, letting it simmer, and pairing it with plain rice or store-bought naan. And guess what? You don’t need 20 spices to make every dish. Many recipes use basic pantry ingredients like garlic, onions, tomatoes, and a handful of spices such as cumin or turmeric.
There are also an increasing number of ready-to-use spice blends available today—just the perfect shortcut for beginners. Indian food isn’t difficult; it just needs a little curiosity and some inspiration!
Parting Words
Indian food is rich, diverse, and full of surprises. By busting these myths, we hope you feel inspired to explore its true essence. Whether you’re trying a new dish at a restaurant or experimenting in your own kitchen, Indian cuisine has something for everyone.
At Camberwell Curry House, we invite you to have a variety of Indian dishes that will tantalise your taste buds and open a whole new world of flavors. Our chefs are dedicated to creating authentic Indian dishes with fresh, quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.
Book a Table today and taste the true flavours of India.
Recommended Posts
6 Common Catering Mistakes You Can Easily Avoid
April 18, 2025
7 Essential Tips for Planning a Cocktail Party in Australia
April 03, 2025