FAQ about Indian Pakistani Cuisine

India and Pakistan share many commonalities mainly in their history, language, culture, and cuisine. Great Indian/Pakistani cuisine often blurs the differences between the two countries and brings people together. Most people find it hard to distinguish between Indian and Pakistani cuisine. Below are some of the frequently asked questions (FAQ) regarding the Indian/Pakistani cuisine:

What are the major differences between Indian and Pakistani cuisine? 

There are some overlaps between the two cuisines. However, over time, notable differences between the two cuisines have developed. For instance, Pakistani tend to use meat extravagantly mainly during special occasions and festivals. Indian cuisines, on the other hand, mainly comprise vegetarian diets. Indian dishes have a rich and intricate spice palette while Pakistani dishes rely on simpler flavours. 

Meat plays a primary role in Pakistani cuisine compared to Indian cuisines. Vegetables and lentils are largely popular in Indian cuisines yet they merely side dishes in Pakistani cuisines. 

In Pakistani, meat ranges from lamb, beef, fish, and poultry. However, in many Indian cuisines, beef is eminently missing due to religious reasons.  

What are the Impacts of Religious and Cultural Customers on Indian/Pakistani Cuisine?

Compared to Pakistani cuisine, Indian cuisine is more influenced by cultural and religious traditions and customs. In many parts of the Indian society, there is a love for vegetarianism. Also evident is the comprehensive use of vegetables, herbs, fruits, and spices that depict Indian traditions. Vegetarianism is a part of the Hindu and Sikh faith. However, with the cultural changes in diet, Hindus are including fish, chicken, and even mutton in their diets. 

Faith-based dietary requirements also impact the Pakistani cuisines. For instance, in Pakistani, alcohol and pork is prohibited. Pakistani cuisines also adhere to halal dietary requirements. 

What are the Differences in Flavours in Indian/Pakistani Dishes?

There is a slight difference in the flavours of Indian and Pakistani foods. The Indian Bhagar dish has more spices than its Pakistani equivalent. Indians also use Asafoetida and mustard seeds in many dishes. 

Even if the differences between the Indian and the Pakistani cuisines are evident, both cuisines offer food lovers a pleasant dining experience. If you have a craving for authentic ethnic dishes, visit us at Eastern Flavours. We offer the best Indian, Pakistani, and Mediterranean cuisines.