India's Beloved Jaljeera, Gajak Rated Worst By Online Food Guide, Netizens React

Indians take immense pride in the multi-generational and closely held recipes, which the world keep raving about, and yes it extends beyond butter chicken. Recently, the experiential online guide Taste Atlas stirred controversy by labeling ten popular Indian dishes and drinks as "worst-rated." The list includes gajak, jaljeera, coconut rice, panta bhat, thandai, achappam, mirchi ka salan, malpua, upma, and aloo baingan, with ratings ranging from 2.7 to 3.2 stars. Notably, this is the second consecutive time that aloo baingan has been ranked poorly, having previously been listed among the world's 100 worst-rated foods earlier this year. 

Foodies' sentiments hurt

The rankings have sparked a backlash on social media, with users criticizing the list for its perceived lack of understanding and appreciation of Indian cuisine. One user remarked, "This list shows a complete lack of understanding. Our heirloom recipes, celebrating seasonal produce like gajak and panta bhat, are unfairly labeled as the worst. It's a misrepresentation of our rich culinary heritage."'

Another user commented, "India boasts one of the richest and most diverse culinary traditions in the world. Ranking mango lassi as #1 is like calling cappuccino the top food in Italy. Stick to European foods if you don't understand Asian cuisine."

Best-rated Indian dishes

In contrast, the same Taste Atlas post highlighted the best-rated Indian foods, including mango lassi, masala chai, butter garlic naan, Amritsari kulcha, butter chicken, Hyderabadi biryani, shahi paneer, chole bhature, tandoori chicken, and korma. These dishes received ratings from 4.4 to 4.6 stars, showcasing a different side of Indian culinary excellence.

On the other hand, this controversy underscores the complexity and depth of Indian cuisine, which can be misunderstood or undervalued by those unfamiliar with its intricacies.