The Most Popular Indian Dishes Explained: Butter Chicken, Biryani, Paneer Tikka & More
Indian cuisine is celebrated for its depth of flavour, vibrant colours, and balance of spice and comfort. From creamy curries to fragrant rice dishes and perfectly charred tandoori creations, each plate tells a story — one of heritage, craftsmanship, and passion.
At Itihaas, our menu captures these culinary traditions in their most authentic and refined form. Here, we explore some of the most popular Indian dishes that have earned global acclaim — and why they remain timeless favourites among diners across the world.
Butter Chicken – The Global Favourite
The story of Butter Chicken begins in Delhi during the mid-20th century, when a stroke of culinary genius turned leftover tandoori chicken into a dish fit for royalty. At the legendary Moti Mahal restaurant, chefs combined the smoky meat with a sauce of tomato, butter, and cream, creating the now-iconic murgh makhani.
Today, it’s one of the most recognised Indian dishes worldwide — rich, silky, and perfectly balanced between sweetness and spice. Its creamy tomato base carries the warmth of garam masala, cumin, and fenugreek, making it approachable to those new to Indian cuisine while still deeply satisfying to seasoned enthusiasts. At Itihaas, our chefs prepare it with fresh cream and premium butter, ensuring every mouthful embodies the comfort and luxury that made it famous.
Dum Biryani – Fragrant Layers of Flavour
Few dishes command as much reverence as the Biryani. Originating from the Mughal kitchens and influenced by Persian culinary traditions, biryani has evolved across India into countless regional variations — from the saffron-tinted Hyderabadi biryani to the delicate Lucknowi (Awadhi) style. Its magic lies in the layering: fragrant basmati rice, marinated meat or vegetables, caramelised onions, and whole spices such as cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon.
Everything is sealed and slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the aromas to meld and infuse every grain. The result is a dish that’s both regal and comforting, an indulgent marriage of texture and fragrance.
At Itihaas, guests can enjoy several interpretations, including our acclaimed Vegetable Biryani, a lighter yet equally luxurious version of this timeless classic.
Matar Paneer – A Vegetarian Delight
For those who prefer a vegetarian option that doesn’t compromise on richness, Matar Paneer is a perennial favourite. Made with cubes of soft, fresh paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and sweet green peas simmered in a spiced tomato gravy, it’s a dish that embodies warmth and home-style comfort.
The balance of creaminess and spice makes it just as appealing to non-vegetarians, while the mild, aromatic sauce pairs beautifully with naan or steamed rice. At Itihaas, we use locally sourced dairy and house-blended spices to create a version that’s smooth, fragrant, and beautifully authentic.
Other Must-Try Dishes
While Butter Chicken, Biryani, and Matar Paneer are pillars of Indian cuisine, the menu at our Indian restaurant in Birmingham offers even more to discover. One of Britain’s best-loved curries, Chicken Tikka Masala, remains a true crowd-pleaser — marinated chicken chargrilled in the tandoor, then simmered in a tomato and cream sauce that balances smoky depth with vibrant spice.
Equally irresistible is Lamb Rogan Josh, a Kashmiri classic defined by tender slow-cooked lamb and the deep red hue of Kashmiri chillies. For bread lovers, the Amritsari Kulcha is a must-try: a flaky, tandoor-baked bread stuffed with spiced potatoes, a perfect partner to any curry or chutney.
Each of these dishes represents a different region of India — together offering a culinary journey across the subcontinent, right here in Birmingham.
Whether you are exploring Indian cuisine for the first time or revisiting beloved favourites, Itihaas brings you the most popular Indian dishes in their truest form, elevated by fine dining presentation and impeccable service. From the creamy indulgence of Butter Chicken to the aromatic layers of Biryani, every dish reflects our chefs’ dedication to authenticity and quality. Experience them all at Itihaas — a destination for those who appreciate Indian cuisine not just as food, but as culture, craft, and celebration.
