Overall, wheat and rice were the staple foods. Gravy-based dishes were prominent through out India. The essence of Indian cooking revolved around the use of spices, which served both as appetizers and digestives. The other main ingredients of Indian cooking were the milk products ghee and curd. Dals or pulses were also used across the country. Vegetables differed across regions and with seasons. The style of cooking vegetables was dependent upon the main dish or cereal with which they were served. Several customs were associated with the way in which food was consumed. Traditionally, meals were eaten while sitting on the floor or on very low stools, eating with the fingers of right hand.