Aromatic and deeply flavorful, Indian food is full of fresh ingredients, heady spices, and vibrant colors. It’s also loaded with powerful anti-inflammatory phytonutrients.

If Indian cooking is new to you, it might seem daunting, but don’t worry: You’ll find that these dishes come together with surprising ease.

Don’t let the bevy of spices intimidate you, either. Once you know how to handle them, you’ll find that -creating these intoxicating flavor combinations is pretty straightforward.

With all its exotic ingredients, unfamiliar dishes, and tongue-tingling flavors, Indian cuisine can be both exciting and intimidating.

“Indian cuisine uses the whole palette of flavors—spicy, sour, sweet, and hot all at the same time—making it something that wants to jump off the plate.