Often when we think of Indian cuisine, one style of cooking stands head and shoulders above the rest, capturing imaginations with its unique and tantalising flavours - Tandoori cooking. As the name implies, Tower Tandoori specialises in this ancient and revered culinary tradition, serving up consistently delectable dishes that authentically represent the powerful essence of Tandoori cooking. In this blog post, you'll walk through the key elements of Tandoori cuisine, from its history and cultural significance to the techniques and ingredients that make it so special, all brought to life in Tower Tandoori's rich menu.

Tandoori cooking finds its roots in the culinary history of the Indian subcontinent - you might even call it the beating heart of northern Indian cuisine. Named after the tandoor, a traditional clay oven that has been used by Indian chefs for centuries, Tandoori cooking refers to the process of marinating ingredients, especially meats and vegetables, in a mix of yoghurt and countless aromatic Indian spices and then baking them to perfection in the tandoor. The result is typically marked by the characteristic smoky flavour and the iconic reddish hue, both of which promise a feast not only for the taste buds but also for the eyes.

At Tower Tandoori, one of London's oldest Indian restaurants, we strive to honour the lineage of this extraordinary culinary tradition. Our chefs build upon the wisdom passed down through generations while employing their expertise to introduce creative elements, resulting in an array of dishes that are deeply rooted in tradition while resonating with contemporary palates. From our famous Tandoori Chicken to the spicy and delicious Paneer Tikka, each dish is a testament to the artistry and skill involved in Tandoori cooking.

Join us as we explore the many facets of Tandoori cuisine in greater depth, revealing the fascinating stories behind the creation of some of the most popular dishes on our menu. Take a culinary deep-dive into the heart of real Indian culinary heritage and the time-tested techniques that have helped it endure and thrive at Tower Tandoori.

The Timeless Charm of the Tandoor Oven

At the centre of the tandoori culinary experience is the tandoor oven, a clay or metal oven that harnesses the power of radiant heat, direct heat, and hot air all at once, locking in the rich flavours of the ingredients it cooks. Meats and vegetables are skewered on long metal rods and suspended vertically in the oven, allowing them to bake perfectly, while unleavened bread like naan is slapped directly onto the scorching inner wall, yielding a crisp and airy texture.

Tandoor ovens have been used for centuries in India, with archaeological evidence suggesting their presence as far back as 2600 BCE in the ancient Indus Valley Civilisation. Despite its antiquity, the tandoor has remained a favourite in the kitchens of India and beyond, owing to the unrivalled smoky and charred character it imparts to the foods it cooks. At Tower Tandoori, we proudly feature authentic tandoor ovens in our kitchen, ensuring that your tandoori dishes carry the genuine taste and aroma of traditional Indian cuisine.

Marinating Magic: The Secret to Tandoori Flavour

The distinguishing feature of tandoori dishes lies in the intricate process of marinating ingredients, something that Tower Tandoori takes great care to perfect. A tandoori marinade typically consists of thick yoghurt, which adds tangy flavour while helping to tenderise the meat, along with a dazzling array of Indian spices. Some of the most common spices include red chilli powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, ginger, and garlic, all of which lend their own distinct characteristics to the final dish.

At Tower Tandoori, we utilise carefully crafted marinades, allowing our ingredients to soak in the flavourful concoction for several hours, or even overnight. This patience ensures that the rich flavours penetrate deep into the meats and vegetables, promising an exceptionally flavoursome dining experience.

Classic and Contemporary Twists: Signature Tower Tandoori Dishes

Our menu at Tower Tandoori is a testament to both the timeless appeal of traditional tandoori dishes and the versatility of contemporary reinterpretations. Here, we take a closer look at some of our most beloved tandoori offerings:

- Tandoori Chicken: An all-time favourite, Tandoori Chicken is known for its succulent, smoky, and slightly spiced allure. We marinate fresh chicken in our intoxicating mix of yoghurt, spices, and herbs before it is gently roasted in the tandoor oven. Each serving is a vibrant and aromatic delight that can be savoured as a starter or enjoyed more substantially with our freshly baked naan.

- Paneer Tikka: A vegetarian alternative to the classic tandoori chicken, Paneer Tikka features delicate cubes of paneer, a type of Indian cottage cheese, marinated in a similar yoghurt and spice blend. Grilled to perfection in the tandoor, our paneer tikka boasts a crisp outer layer, giving way to a sumptuous and tender interior that pairs beautifully with our mint chutney.

- Tandoori Lamb Chops: A tender and mouth-watering option for lamb lovers, our Tandoori Lamb Chops are marinated in a blend of yoghurt and spices for a slightly spicier kick than other tandoori dishes. This marination process allows the rich flavours to seep deep into the meat, ensuring a flavour-packed bite in every morsel.

- Tandoori Mixed Grill: For the true tandoori aficionado, our mixed grill is a must-try. An assortment of select meats, including chicken, lamb, and prawns, are marinated using our various secret spice blends before being carefully roasted in the tandoor. The result is an unforgettable symphony of flavours that speaks to the heart of Indian cuisine.

Discover the Tandoor's Treasures at Tower Tandoori

In conclusion, the intriguing world of tandoori cooking, its history, and the skill that goes into crafting its distinctive dishes can be explored and enjoyed at Tower Tandoori. As one of London's oldest Indian restaurants, we are proud to present a menu that pays homage to this ancient cooking technique while also exploring contemporary innovations with our talented chefs.

Whether you are new to tandoori cooking or well acquainted with its flavours, we invite you to experience the passion and craftsmanship behind our dishes for yourself. So, let Tower Tandoori whisk you away on a culinary adventure and immerse yourself in the ever-enchanting art of tandoori cooking.