3 underrated dishes to order at an Indian restaurant, according to a top Indian chef

Heena Patel is the owner and chef of Besharam in San Francisco.

Sarah Felker Heena Patel is the James Beard-nominated chef of Besharam in San Francisco.

Patel shared the underrated Indian dishes she believes everyone should order.

Khandvi is a popular savory snack, and khichdi is a classic comfort dish.

Naan and butter chicken are undoubtedly delicious, but there's so much more to explore in Indian cuisine than these menu staples.

That's what James Beard-nominated chef Heena Patel set out to prove with Besharam , her regional Gujarati restaurant in San Francisco.

"Just as my guests step outside their comfort zones, I do the same with them, trusting they'll embrace my menu with an open mind," Patel told Business Insider.

"That's how I hope to put Gujarati food on the map." Patel believes the biggest mistake people make at Indian restaurants is playing it too safe.

So, if you're looking for a little inspiration, here are three underrated dishes Patel thinks you should order the next time you're craving Indian food for dinner.

Bhindi masala 'allows okra to shine' Bhindi masala is traditionally made with okra, tomatoes, onions, and herbs.

Jamie Rogers/Getty Images One of Patel's favorite okra dishes is bhindi masala, which typically features okra cooked with tomatoes, onions, and herbs.

"This dish is very special because it allows okra to shine with its crisp texture," Patel said.

When Patel sees okra and bitter melon on the menu at an Indian restaurant, she knows she's found an authentic spot .

"Produce like okra, bitter melon, and opo squash are common in Indian cooking," Patel said.