Parts of India have unique styles of food among people of different religions and ethnic groups. For instance, because of their relgious beliefs, Hindus generally do not eat beef, and Muslims generally do not eat pork, while other religious groups are vegetarian.

Geography also plays a role. For example, North India has more bread-based foods because wheat grows there. In South India, where it is warmer and wetter, rice grows easily and is part of most people’s diets.

	Physical elevation map of India 1999. Copyright: Maps.com

In North India there are a lot of dairy products in food. Milk, ghee, yogurt, and paneer (a type of cheese) are commonly used in making curries. These curries are often eaten with flat baked breads called rotis, naans, and parathas. The spices that are often used in North Indian cuisine are chillies, saffron, and nuts. Goat and lamb meat are popular meats that go with meals. A whole meal will also include lentils and vegetables as well.

In East India, fish and seafood are more popular than other meats. They are eaten with a combination of rice and bread-based staples. East Indians use a lot of cashew nut and poppy seed paste in their food as well. Deserts and sweets made of milk are also very popular.

In South India, most curries are made from coconut milk and oil. Due to religion, South Indians tend to have more vegetarian dishes available. Other foods that are popular in South India are Dosas (a type of crepe) and Idli (steamed rice cakes).

Most Indian food also comes with sides of chutneys, dhal (lentils), and pickles, which also contribute to a well rounded meal.