Meat

There are religious restrictions but nonetheless meat is an important ingredient in many parts of India, especially in the mountainous areas where it is hard to grow vegetables and there is no coastline so access to fish and shellfish is limited. From succulent mountain lamb to fragrant pork dishes and tender beef stews, the preparation of the different cuts does vary, and most meat is tenderized and/or marinated before being cooked in a particular way.

The consumption of meat varies from region to region, often depending on the dominant faith. In general, the choice of meats tends to be related to religious restrictions. Hindus and Buddhists are often vegetarian and even if they do eat meat, they do not eat beef. Muslims eschew pork, while Jainists are very strict vegetarians. Christians tend to be meat-eaters, although Catholics are not allowed meat on many religious days.