Indian Food Guide for MBBS Students in Russia

For Indian students studying MBBS in Russia, food is a significant concern, especially when it comes to finding familiar and comforting meals. Thankfully, over the years, Russia has become more accommodating to international students, including Indian food preferences. Here's a comprehensive guide on Indian food options while studying MBBS in Russia:

1. University Canteens and Hostels

• Most universities in Russia, particularly those with a large population of Indian students (like in Kazan, Moscow, Bashkir State Medical University, etc.), have:
  • University canteens that cater to international students, offering Indian dishes like dal, rice, chapati, curries, and sabzi.
  • Some hostels or dormitories also provide Indian meal options in their mess facilities.
• Quality: Meals are simple and affordable, but might not always match home-cooked flavors.
• Tip: Coordinate with fellow Indian students to check if a mess service is available for Indian food within your hostel.

2. Indian Mess Facilities

• In universities with a significant Indian student population, there are private Indian mess services available.
• These messes are usually run by Indian expatriates or locals who are familiar with Indian cooking.
• Meals typically include:
  • Rice, dal, roti/chapati, sabzi (vegetables), curries, pickles, and sometimes sweets.
  • Options for vegetarians and non-vegetarians are available.
• Cost: Indian mess services are budget-friendly and operate on a monthly subscription basis.

3. Self-Cooking: A Popular Option

• Most Indian students in Russia prefer self-cooking to ensure they have familiar, healthy, and cost-effective meals.
• Hostels have common kitchens equipped with stoves, refrigerators, and basic utensils.
• Benefits of self-cooking:
  • Control over ingredients and taste.
  • Ideal for vegetarians or those requiring halal food.
  • Saves money compared to dining out regularly.
• Availability of Ingredients: Indian spices and groceries like rice, pulses, atta (flour), masalas, and lentils can be purchased from:
  • Indian grocery stores in cities with large Indian communities.
  • Supermarkets like Auchan, Perekrestok, Pyaterochka, and Magnit.
  • Halal stores for meat.
• Tip: Carry essential spices (masalas, pickles, etc.) from India to get started and save costs initially.

4. Indian Restaurants in Russia

• Major cities like Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Ufa, and Volgograd have numerous Indian restaurants and cafes that serve authentic Indian food.
• Popular Indian dishes available include:
  • Butter Chicken, Paneer Butter Masala, Biryani, Dosa, Chole Bhature, Samosas, and Indian breads (naan, roti).
• Popular Indian Restaurants in Russia:
  • Moscow: Darbar, Jagannath, Khajuraho, Fusion Plaza.
  • St. Petersburg: Namaste, Tandoor, and Oh! Mumbai.
  • Kazan: Shafran, Indian Café.
  • Ufa: Indian Café and other international outlets.
• Cost: Dining at Indian restaurants is more expensive compared to self-cooking or canteens but is a great option for occasional indulgence.

5. Online Delivery Services

• Food delivery apps like Yandex Eats, Delivery Club, and Uber Eats make it easy to order Indian food from local Indian restaurants.
• You can also find international food options like Chinese, Turkish, or Middle Eastern dishes, which often appeal to Indian tastes.

6. Halal Food Options

• Indian students who follow a halal diet can find halal meat and food products in:
  • Halal stores: These are common in cities with a sizable Muslim population.
  • Local markets: Meat shops often indicate "halal" certifications.
• Many Indian dishes can be prepared at home using halal ingredients.

7. Alternative International Food Choices

If Indian food is not available, students can also explore alternatives that are somewhat similar:

• Turkish Cuisine: Dishes like pilaf, kebabs, shawarma, and lentil soups.
• Central Asian Cuisine: Food such as plov (rice and meat dish) and samsa (stuffed pastries) resemble Indian flavors.
• Middle Eastern Cuisine: Options like hummus, falafel, and pita bread can cater to vegetarian and halal diets.

8. Grocery Stores and Indian Supplies

• Many grocery stores and supermarkets in Russia stock basic ingredients for Indian cooking:
  • Rice (Basmati)
  • Lentils and pulses
  • Vegetables like potatoes, tomatoes, and onions
• Specialty items like spices, masalas, atta (flour), and snacks like Maggi noodles are available in Indian or Asian stores.
• Tip: When visiting India, stock up on essential spices and packaged snacks.

9. Community and Cultural Gatherings

• Indian students often organize community meals during festivals like Diwali, Holi, or Eid.
• These events provide a great opportunity to enjoy home-cooked Indian food with fellow students.

Final Tips for Indian Students

• Learn Basic Cooking: Knowing how to cook simple meals like dal, rice, and chapati will make your life easier.
• Carry Essentials: Bring Indian spices, ready-to-eat meals, and pickles from home.
• Find Communities: Connect with Indian seniors or student associations for recommendations on food options.
• Stay Open-Minded: Explore Russian and other international cuisines—you may discover new favorites!