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If you are ready for a break from the traditional Chinese food and pizza takeout, consider ordering from a local Indian food restaurant. Many of them deliver, so you can dine in the comfort of your own home. Plus, Indian food is full of delicious flavors and textures for your mouth to explore. Here's what you need to know if it's your first time enjoying Indian food.

Classic Appetizers

Indian food restaurants do offer appetizers, but they are intended for sharing. You just want a little to whet your appetite. Most popular appetizers are vegetable-based. Samosas, which are little pastries often filled with potatoes and peas, are popular. Potato spheres, which are crunchy, fried potato balls, are another good choice--especially when they're served with a yogurt dip.

Entrees

When you order at an Indian food restaurant, it is often assumed that the dishes are being ordered to share. In other words, rather than each person in your group ordering one dish, the group should decide on several dishes that they all want to try. When the food comes, you can serve yourself some of each dish.

You'll find endless entree options on most Indian menus, and there are usually descriptions to help you make a good choice. But if it's your first time eating Indian food, there are a few classics you should try.

Chicken Tikka: This skewered chicken dish is often pretty spicy. The chicken is seasoned with a signature spice mix, often containing cinnamon, curry, cardamom, and other spices, and then cooked in a tandoori oven.

Butter Chicken: This is a milder dish that is often served over rice. The chicken is bathed in a rich, creamy, tomato-based sauce that you can sop up with your naan bread.

Biryani: Biryani is the Indian version of fried rice, made with Basmati rice, fresh veggies, and your choice of meat. It's traditionally served with lamb, so if the menu does not specify the meat, you can assume the biryani is made with lamb. Many restaurants also offer chicken biryani.

Lamb Vindaloo: Vindaloo sauce is made with plenty of chile peppers, so it's quite spicy. Lamb vindaloo typically features chunks of lamb and potatoes.

Saag: If you follow a vegetarian diet,saag is a dish you'll love. It;s made with creamy spinach, fenugreek, and a blend of spices. Many people order saag as a side dish.

Stick with the dishes above, order plenty to go around, and you're bound to have a delicious dining experience with your Indian delivery food.