Most Popular South Indian Food to Try in NYC

“The Big Apple” has always been a hub of food, and in recent years, South Indian food has taken the spotlight. Earlier, when people used to hear “Indian Food” in New York, they thought of Chicken Tikka Masala, Biryani, Pani Puri, and so on. Now the perspective has changed. Today, local people are trying more and more South Indian dishes like crispy dosa, fluffy idli, and tangy sambar. If you live in NYC and you’re a foodie too, our guide will share with you the famous South Indian foods in NYC that locals swear by and visitors can’t resist.

1. Dosa

Dosa is a famous South Indian dish loved by people all over the world. It literally looks like a pancake, but it's not. It is made from a fermented batter of rice and urad dal. The fermentation process gives it a little tangy taste. Traditionally, dosas are served hot with sambar (a spicy lentil soup) and coconut chutney.

There are several types of dosas to try. The Masala Dosa is the most famous—it is stuffed with spiced mashed potatoes. The Neer Dosa originated from the Tulu Nadu region and is served with curry or coconut chutney. Then, there is the Benne Dosa from Karnataka, which is known for its buttery flavor. In New York City, dosas have become a favorite among locals and foodies. Ahimsa restaurant in NYC serves the most authentic dosas in NYC with a true taste of South India.

2. Idli

Idlis are the quintessential South Indian breakfast. It is light, fluffy, and soft. Made from a fermented batter of de-husked black lentils and rice. An interesting fact is that these steamed rice cakes have been a staple for centuries. Their origins trace back to ancient texts, with mentions in works like Vaddaradhane (920 CE) and Manasollasa (1130 CE).

The idli gets its mouthwatering taste from the fermentation process. As the batter ferments overnight, it rises and develops a subtle tanginess. They are steamed in molds, which is why they are soft and spongy. In restaurants of Indian food in Manhattan, NY, idlis are on the menu of every Indian restaurant in NYC and are offered in both traditional and modern styles.

3. Vada

If you want to try something crunchy in NYC, there’s no better option than vada. These deep-fried snacks are from South India and are also known as fritters, cutlets, or dumplings. It comes in different forms. The first one is the Medu Vada, made from black gram (urad dal). It resembles a doughnut and is crispy, soft, and fluffy. Often enjoyed with coconut chutney and sambar. Second is the Masala Vada, a spiced lentil fritter that's too good. Made from toor dal and has other ingredients like onions, green chilies, and curry leaves. This type is quite famous in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Last is the Sabudana Vada. Made from tapioca pearls and mashed potatoes. Many people prefer to eat it during fasts. In NYC, these vadas can be easily found in various South Indian restaurants.

4. Uttapam

Uttapam is another most-eaten South Indian breakfast in NYC. It is also known as "Indian pizza" because of its appearance. It is cooked with toppings like onions, tomatoes, chilies, and coriander and mixed into batter. The preparation of uttapam starts with a fermented batter made from a 1:3 ratio of urad dal (black gram) and rice. This batter is spread on a hot pan, and the toppings are lightly pressed into the surface before cooking. The result is an uttapam with a golden-brown crust.

Uttapams are also served with sambar (a spiced lentil soup) and coconut chutney, just like the above ones. In New York City, several South Indian restaurants in New York offer original uttapams, which means diners can experience this delicious dish.

5. Rasam

Rasam is a spicy South Indian soup tradition, often served as a side dish with rice. Originating from Tamil Nadu, the word "rasam" translates to "essence" or "juice." It has a tangy concoction due to tamarind or tomatoes and spices like black pepper, cumin, and mustard seeds and is loaded with lentils or vegetables.

In New York City, rasam has made its place in the hearts of food lovers. Ahimsa NYC serves authentic rasam and offers varieties such as tomato rasam, pepper rasam, and garlic rasam. If you’re new to Indian food, this dish is soul-satisfying.

To Sum Up

If you are one of those people who really think South Indian cuisine is just dosa and idlis, then you’re living in your own dreamland. There are plenty, such as dosa, idli, vada, uttapam, rasam, and many more. For an authentic experience in NYC, visit AHIMSA NYC at 204 East 38th Street. They offer the best Indian vegetarian food with different options of gluten-free, vegan, Jain, and kosher. Believe me, it’s the perfect place to savor traditional Indian dishes, and the atmosphere is very friendly.