Best Indian Dishes to Try in Calgary – A Taste of Lotus Fine Indian Cuisine

Calgary's culinary scene is rich and diverse, and when it comes to Indian cuisine, the options are plentiful. However, for those seeking an authentic experience that combines traditional cooking methods with regional Indian recipes, Lotus Fine Indian Cuisine in Calgary NW stands out as a premier destination.

1. Butter Chicken – The Signature Dish

No Indian restaurant experience is complete without trying Butter Chicken. At Lotus, this dish is prepared using a slow cooking technique that allows the flavors to develop fully. The marinated chicken is simmered in a silky tomato and butter gravy with cream, finished with authentic North Indian spices. The result is a smooth, creamy texture that has made this dish one of Calgary's favorites.

What sets Lotus's version apart is the perfect balance of richness without overwhelming the palate – a testament to the skilled hands in the kitchen.

2. Tandoori Chicken – Clay Oven Perfection

The Tandoori Chicken at Lotus is marinated overnight in yogurt, lemon juice, and a medley of spices including cumin, coriander, and paprika. It's then roasted in a traditional clay tandoor oven, creating a vibrant smoky char on the outside while keeping the meat succulent inside.

Served with fresh onions, lemon wedges, and mint chutney, this dish showcases the authentic flavors that have made tandoor cooking legendary.

3. Chicken Tikka Masala – A Bolder Alternative

For those who enjoy a bolder flavor profile, the Chicken Tikka Masala offers a delightful alternative to butter chicken. Bite-sized pieces of tandoor-grilled chicken are simmered in a velvety tomato-onion gravy seasoned with cardamom, fenugreek, and garam masala.

This globally popular dish is creamy, tangy, and offers a hint of smokiness from the grilled chicken.

4. Paneer Tikka – Vegetarian Delight

Vegetarians will love the Paneer Tikka – soft cubes of Indian cottage cheese marinated in yogurt and spices, then roasted in a traditional tandoor until golden on the edges. Served with mint chutney and lemon wedges, this protein-packed dish offers an indulgent experience for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

5. Lamb Rogan Josh – Kashmiri Elegance

This luxurious curry has its origins in Kashmir and features slow-cooked lamb in a rich, aromatic sauce. The blend of Kashmiri spices creates a deep, complex flavor profile that is both warming and sophisticated. Each bite reveals layers of carefully balanced spices that have been perfected over generations.

6. Vegetable Biryani – Aromatic Rice Perfection

The Vegetable Biryani at Lotus features fragrant basmati rice layered with seasonal vegetables and aromatic spices including saffron and cardamom. This Hyderabadi-style dish is slow-cooked to perfection, ensuring every grain of rice is infused with flavor.

7. Prawn Curry – Coastal Inspiration

Inspired by coastal Indian regions, this coconut-based seafood dish brings the flavors of the sea to Calgary. Succulent prawns are simmered in a creamy coconut curry with carefully selected spices that complement the natural sweetness of the seafood.

8. Chana Masala – Hearty Chickpea Curry

This beloved North Indian staple features chickpeas in a balanced, tangy tomato gravy. The spice blend is perfectly calibrated to provide warmth without overwhelming heat, making it a crowd-pleaser for all spice tolerance levels.

9. Baingan Bharta – Fire-Roasted Eggplant

For those seeking something unique, Baingan Bharta offers a rich, earthy flavor that comes from fire-roasting the eggplant until smoky and tender. Mashed and prepared with onions, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, this vegetarian dish is a hidden gem on the menu.

10. Garlic Naan – The Perfect Accompaniment

No Indian meal is complete without bread, and the Garlic Naan at Lotus is tandoor-baked to perfection. Brushed with butter and fresh garlic, it's the ideal vessel for scooping up rich curries and gravies.

11. Mango Lassi – The Perfect Finish

End your meal on a sweet note with a traditional Mango Lassi – a refreshing yogurt-based drink blended with ripe mangoes. It's the perfect way to cool down after a flavorful meal.

Experience Authentic Indian Cuisine in Calgary

At Lotus Fine Indian Cuisine, the commitment to authenticity shines through in every dish. From traditional tandoor cooking to fresh ingredients and regional recipes, each meal is crafted to transport your taste buds to India.