On Independence Day, Taste Atlas reveals the 50 best foods and drinks in India

Bagging the number one position and rightly so is none other than chai masala. Describing the aromatic beverage, the food guide wrote that several theories suggest that the origin of the drink is linked with the British tea trade. “Their quest brought them to India, where they started to set up tea plantations. It is believed that chai masala first appeared during that period.” However, it only became a popular option in the 20th century when the Indian Tea Association promoted tea breaks as a much-needed refreshment for workers and when tea became more affordable.

Chai masala is an aromatic beverage. (Source: Freepik)

In the second and third positions are butter garlic naan and garam masala, respectively. While butter garlic naan is a “traditional Indian flatbread” served with a variety of Indian dishes such as curries, butter chicken, dal makhani, malai kofta or shahi paneer, garam masala is an “intensely aromatic blend of ground spices such as cinnamon, cumin, cardamom, cloves and peppercorns”, according to Taste Atlas.

The list also featured many drinks and dishes that are loved by not only Indians but people across the globe such as mango lassi, naan, butter chicken, tandoori (the technique), tikka, thali, korma, and many other dishes.

It also revealed several desserts such as kaju katli, kulfi, phirni, rasgulla and ras malai — adored by many sweet lovers. Additionally, popular gins and tonics also found a mention on the list.

Check out the full list below.

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