Do You Like Indian Restaurant Food

By Adriana Noton

I realize there are differences between an American Indian restaurant and an Indian restaurant. The flavors and textures can be (and are) quite different. But, today I am simply going to communicate my fondness for American Indian cuisine. I have visited several of these monumental habitats. I think everyone should take the time to eat this kind of food. I will do my best to explain it to you...

My tastes lean more toward hamburgers, fried chicken, and mashed potatoes. So, I was not in store for this experience. I felt a little intimidated when I opened the menu. I almost felt as if I should turn and run out the restaurant. I decided to let my sister order for me. I would soon find out just what authentic Indian restaurant cuisine is all about! Goodness, help me not be nauseated.

When my order came, I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised. I did not realize just how lovely the aroma of this Indian food would be. Since I am a meat eater, I did find it refreshing that there was a great platter to choose from. Stir Fried Meat Curry was the first to stare me in the face. I opened my mouth and shoveled a bite in. The invasion upon my senses was stupendous! I could not believe that such a challenging taste could agree so well with me! I looked at Miranda (my sister) and saw she was smiling.

A bread which people enjoy is fry bread. It is deep fat fried and when done, honey is poured on top. Other types of toppings are cream, powered sugar, stews or even salsas! "Squaw" bread is another name for this yummy concoction. Whatever way you decide you like it, you will never fail to grab one for the road!

A third dish which I tried was Ginger Chicken. Now, I am used to eating Ginger snap cookies. I really did not associate this seasoning with chicken. I could not wrap my mind around the idea of tasting chicken with this. But then, all of sudden it was in my mouth. I was amazed how delicious this was. It had onions, tomatoes, garlic, coriander, cumin, and turmeric all together in the dish. What a tantalizing combination.

American Indians were very smart in knowing which foods were safe to eat or not. Persimmons, buffalo, potatoes, and yes, cocoa were daily foods for the First Americans. Corn, tomatoes, turkey, squash and acorns were foods found here when the first Europeans arrived. We need to thank the Native Indigenous peoples of this land for the great knowledge we learned from them! My tummy would be so lonely without these morsels!

Spicy Vegetable Cutlets were my next flavorful adventure. They are made with mashed potatoes and vegetables. Once mashed it is mixed with red peppers and salt, made into patties and lightly fried in sunflower oil. The cutlets were served with a tamarind chutney and I was astonished! I enjoyed trying all the courses and will not be afraid to try anything new again. I suppose you can teach an old dog new tricks.

I can not pick my one favorite American Indian restaurant. In my travels across this great land, I have come upon so many. I feel it is important for people (here, in America) to try a bit of our history. The contributions made by each establishment are immeasurable. The next time you take a drive (or a trip) stop at one of these marvelous cafes. I believe you will find the familiar, and you will realize just how delightful these foods are. - 30543

About the Author:

Sign Up for our Free Newsletter

Enter email address here