This week I write to you from Austin, Texas – home of the Texas state capital, the Longhorns and countless barbecue restaurants, huts, shacks and stands.
Here the food culture is all about barbecue, a genre that revolves around meat, meat and more meat; a cuisine that truly isn’t ideal for a new vegetarian like me.
But the intense Texas culture got me to thinking – there are thousands of cultures that have their own cuisines. What cuisine really caters to the vegetarians out there?
After some intense scrutiny I settled on Indian food. Of course, Chinese, Ethiopian and even Mexican cuisines all have their veg staples; however, Indian food is the epitome of vegetarian eating in my mind.
Sure, Indian food is not everyone’s cup-of-tea, but there’s no denying it provides us with healthy and flavorful dishes that are, of course, vegetarian.
Much of Indian food is vegetarian because of the Buddhist principle, “ahimsa.” Ahimsa means no violence – no violence against humans and no violence against animals. Furthermore, Indian food has evolved into a mostly-veg cuisine for economic purposes because, after all, meat is pretty pricey.
Because so many individuals living in India are Buddhists following ahimsa, and meat is often too expensive to put on the table, you can walk into any Indian restaurant and there will be no lack of veg options.
But where are these Indian restaurants? What should you order at them? Since it’s “exotic” ethnic food, will it be more expensive?
An awesome Indian place to check out in Ann Arbor is the Earthen Jar. It’s certainly not your average restaurant, but it could definitely find a place in your heart after just one visit. The Earthen Jar is located at 311 South Fifth Avenue in Ann Arbor at an unassuming two story house.
The food at the Earthen Jar is strictly vegetarian and priced $5.99 per pound. This way of pricing makes for incredibly affordable dining-out. Great for take-out or dining-in this restaurant has mastered the art of buffet style serving. Make sure to try the banana pudding too, if you have room left over!
Another good stop on the Indian tour of Ypsi-Arbor is Shalimar on 307 South Main in Ann Arbor. This restaurant is slightly fancy; wearing somewhat nicer clothes would be appropriate, but wearing jeans, by no means, is inappropriate either.
My attitude on the price at Shalimar is, yes it’s more expensive than eating Panera, but more moderately priced than many of its neighbors along Main Street.
Shalimar does have quite a few meat dishes, but the staff is very knowledgeable about the veg dishes they feature. And, since they do serve meat, it’s a nice place to visit with carnivorous friends.
Lastly, Madras Masala is a good place to check out when seeking Indian food. The ambience at 328 Maynard isn’t anything to brag about, but I don’t dine at places according to looks.
The food at Madras Masala is plain ol’ good. They incorporate South Indian cuisine and feature a buffet which is great for people unfamiliar with the style of food. Coming in at just about average on the price scale, I would recommend Madras for a healthy lunch with friends any day.
All-in-all, Indian food is great for anyone who’s looking to eat really wholesome food that has a bit of flare.
I’ve always liked Indian food, but now that I’m veg I have a new-found appreciation for Indian food’s ability to make such interesting meals without meat.
