USA Food Guide Do's and Don'ts for for Indians

Whether you're a student, professional, or tourist coming from India, navigating the American food scene can be exciting but also a little tricky. From understanding labels and identifying vegetarian-friendly foods to tipping customs and avoiding hidden ingredients like beef or alcohol, there’s a lot to learn. This guide is designed to help Indians in the U.S. make informed food choices, stay true to cultural or religious diets, and comfortably adjust to local food customs all while exploring the diversity the American food scene has to offer. DOs: What You Should Do

Grocery Shopping & Ingredients

Shop Smart

Visit Indian grocery stores like Patel Brothers, Apna Bazaar, Subzi Mandi for desi essentials.

Big chains (Walmart, Target, Costco) carry some Indian staples in their International or Asian aisles.

Use Substitutes for Indian Cooking

Paneer → Make at home or find at Whole Foods/Indian stores.

Besan → Often labeled as “chickpea flour.”

Curd → Use plain Greek yogurt as a substitute.

Atta → Use “white whole wheat flour” if you can’t find Indian atta.

Stock Your Pantry

Must-haves: Rice, dal, atta, ghee, mustard seeds, cumin, turmeric, red chili, garam masala, hing. Buy in Bulk

Get rice, oil, lentils, and spices in bulk from Costco or Sam’s Club for savings. Check Labels Carefully

Watch for hidden non-veg ingredients like gelatin, rennet, or animal broth.

Read labels even for chips, soups, or candy. Find Fresh Produce at Farmers Markets

Get fresh spinach, methi, karela, lauki, etc. at affordable prices. Eating Out & Dining Tips

Ask for Modifications in Restaurants

Many places can remove meat or make it vegan-friendly on request.

Say: “Can I get this without chicken?” or “Is this cooked in beef broth?”

Explore Different Cuisines

Try Mexican (veg burrito), Mediterranean (falafel), Thai (green curry), Italian (pasta), Ethiopian (injera). Use Apps for Veg Options

Apps like HappyCow help find vegetarian/vegan restaurants nearby.

Pack Indian Food for Lunch

Totally fine to bring your own sabzi-roti or pulao to school/work.

Take Leftovers Home

Huge portions? Ask for a “to-go box”—normal practice in the U.S.

Tipping Is Expected

Tip 15–20% in sit-down restaurants. Cooking & Meal Prep

Use an Instant Pot

A must-have for cooking dal, rice, sabzis, and even biryani quickly.

Batch Cook and Freeze

Make chole, rajma, or bhindi in bulk and freeze for busy days.

Keep Emergency Snacks

Thepla, poha mix, trail mix, granola bars, or khakhra are great for on-the-go.

Try Indian Meal Kits or Spice Kits

Services like Desi Mealz or SpiceBreeze make it easier to cook authentic meals. Family & Kids

School Lunches May Lack Veg Options

Pack your child’s lunch if needed.

Introduce school staff to dietary needs (vegetarian/vegan/jain).

Bring Kid-Friendly Indian Snacks

Murmura, besan ladoo, or homemade roti wraps work great. Baby Food Note

Indian baby food options are limited—prepare fresh or bring dry mixes from India if visiting. DON’Ts: What to Avoid

Misunderstanding Labels

Don’t Assume “Vegetarian” Means Egg-Free

Ask: “Does this have eggs or gelatin?”

Don’t Trust “Spicy” at Face Value

American “spicy” is usually mild—ask for extra spicy if needed. Mistakes to Avoid While Shopping/Cooking

Don’t Bring Certain Foods from India

Avoid packing pickles with seeds, dairy-based items, fresh fruits/veggies when flying into the U.S.

Don’t Ignore Portion Sizes

U.S. portions can be large share meals or take leftovers. Don’t Skip Washing Produce

Fruits/veggies may have pesticide residue or wax—wash thoroughly. Don’t Expect Milk to Taste the Same

Try Organic Valley or Desi milk brands for a closer taste.

Don’t Rely Too Much on Fast Food Chains

Veg options are limited—though some offer plant-based burgers (Impossible/Beyond Meat). Social or Cultural Missteps

Don’t Feel Embarrassed About Bringing Indian Food

Many Americans enjoy the aroma and taste. Just avoid very strong-smelling items (like fish curry) in shared spaces.

Don’t Assume Everyone Shares Food Like in India

In the U.S., people usually order their own meals unless you agree to share beforehand.

Don’t Hesitate to Join Potlucks

Bring Indian sweets, pulao, or samosas—label as “Vegetarian” or “Spicy.” Healthy Eating Tips

Watch Sugar/Salt: Processed foods can be high in both—always check nutrition facts.

Stay Hydrated: Tap water is drinkable in most U.S. cities, or use a water filter.

Meal Timing: Lunch ~12–1 PM, Dinner ~6–7 PM. Restaurants may close early.

If you want personalized suggestions based on where you live, or tips like:

Best Indian restaurants in your area

Where to buy specific brands/products

Indian-style meal plans for weekdays

Budget-friendly veg meal options

Food is a big part of Indian culture, and it’s absolutely possible to maintain your preferences and traditions while living or traveling in the U.S. By staying aware, asking the right questions, and knowing where to shop and eat, you’ll feel more confident and comfortable with food in a new country. Embrace the diversity, try new (vegetarian/vegan) global dishes, and bring your own flavors to the table.

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