McDonalds in India: Where's the Beef?

Westerners living in or visiting India enjoy a wonderful variety of food: dahl (a variety of spiced lentils), curried vegetables, wonderful breads baked in clay ovens, and McDonalds' fries and shakes. Yes, that's right; McDonalds in India provides westerners with a little taste of home. Just don't expect the menu to be the same as it is in the U.S. Among other differences, you won't find beef on the menu.

Diets in India are often impacted by the many different religions in India. Hindus don't eat beef, so there is no beef on the McDonalds' menu in India. Muslims don't eat pork, so the McDonalds Corporation in India is quick to point out on their website (mcdonaldsinindia.com) that not only is there no beef, there is no pork or pork byproducts in any McDonalds restaurant in India. Additionally, with the high number of vegetarians in India, about half of the menu at McDonalds in India is vegetarian, which makes it a good choice for diners who want some healthy options - whether or not they are vegetarian.

Here's a glimpse of what you can order at a McDonalds in India, along with a note about my favorite menu items that I personally consumed at McDonalds in India:

Vegetarian Fare at McDonalds in India


McVeggie™

The McVeggie ™ sandwich starts with the oh-so-familiar sesame seed bun. In between the bread, you'll find a vegetarian patty that is made from peas, carrots, green beans, red bell pepper, potatoes, onions, rice, and seasoning. This vegetarian burger is garnished with lettuce, and has mayonnaise made without eggs spread thickly on the bread.

McAloo Tikki™

Potatoes (aloo in Hindi) are a popular filling food item in India. McDonald's in India's McAloo Tikki ™ sandwich includes a patty made out of potatoes, peas, and spices. It also includes tomato slices, onions, and vegetarian mayonnaise.

Paneer Salsa Wrap™