Apart from the obvious answer that it originates from India, a more
concrete answer to the above question is quite complicated but very
interesting.
Indian history is extraordinary, shaped by numerous unique cultures that
resulted from invasion, migration and merging of different tribes. This
reflects in its unique cuisine. While everyone can find something
unique about Indian food, be it the curry which is a complex but unique
blend of spices or masala or the exotic looking lamb and chicken dishes,
any attempt to pin it down has been futile so far.
Take the humble chutney. This simple blend of fruit and spices could not
have originated anywhere else around the globe but India. Who else
would dare to be so inventive as to mix a sweet, in this case ripe
fruit, with a blend of spices?
While chicken is a common ingredient in almost all types of cuisines, no
chicken dish is internationally acclaimed as the Indian Tandoori
Chicken. The sizzling clay oven in which it is cooked and the vivid
colors of this dish is only a part of its unique taste. The perfect
blend of spices and distinctive method of preparation is what makes this
dish an international favorite.
Similarly, lamb is an integral part of Italian, Greek and a number of
other cuisines. These places also boast of rich history and culture, but
the flavors of Indian Achari dish is something exceptional when
compared to, say a Greek lamb stew.
Is it the coriander? But then it is also found in Greek cooking.
Likewise, tomatoes are a common ingredient in many cuisines. Can it be
the exotic Indian spices that give the uniqueness to Indian food? Well,
Greeks were renowned for their travels worldwide and brought home many
spices from far off exotic places. The discussion can go on and on, but
the fact remains that Achari is a pungent, exotic dish that is a treat
to your taste buds, while the Greek stew is tasty but mild.
The doughnut which is an oil-fried, fat-filled, sweet dish is
omnipresent in America as well as in China. But the Indian vada which in
no way resembles a doughnut is crisp, savory and flavorful.
While you can try to pin point the uniqueness of Indian food with its
use of spices or colorful presentation, the exact answer is still a
mystery, just like the country it originated from.