This article takes a look into the reasons why Brits love their curry and why it has become a UK staple. Additionally, we will also be discussing Chicken Tikka and how it has risen to prominence thanks to curry. If you have a love for curry and all things Britain, this article is a good starting point.

First off, let’s study some facts. As curry gained popularity in India, British army soldiers and migrants in the country also took notice. This is due to the presence of the British Raj around the 1800s and thus was a pivotal point for the dish to make its jump into British cuisine. It was a nice contrast when compared to the more subtle or lighter British palate with dishes such as Yorkshire pudding and the iconic fish and chips. 

With the rise of curry, other British dishes were also inspired, such as the kedgeree and the Mulligatawny stew. Additionally, British royalty and pop culture alike were taking notice of its rise. Queen Victoria herself found it valuable on the royal table, so it led to many commoners to copy her. 

Later in the 1940s–50s, a popular cockney term was coined called “Ruby Murray” which is derived from a popular singer with the same name. Overall, these different waves in cuisine and popular culture further cemented the dish in all things British until today. 

Now that you have some historical background, it’s time to appreciate the following reasons why the Brits fell in love with curry and how you can learn to love it too: 

• Undeliable flavours: As mentioned earlier, curry adds unique flavours and intrigue to British food. This is largely due to the warm and comforting mix of spices, like cumin, coriander, turmeric, cardamom, and the popular garam masala. Aside from the spicy contrast, curry is highly recommended among Brits due to its enticing aromatics and key health benefits. 
• Multicultural boom: The historical background of Britain has lightly touched on this point, but it is also a known fact that there are many South Asians who chose to migrate into the UK, which explains the large popularity of many curry houses. The multicultural impact of migrants in the UK has been a welcome addition to the nation, as they challenge new perspectives and ways of cooking that the Brits have loved for centuries. 
• Their own twist: Following the fusion of many cultures, the Brits became busy in the kitchen around the 1970s. This gave rise to the one and only Chicken Tikka: a succulent grilled chicken dish that has been double-marinated with roasted curry spices and cooked in creamy yoghurt. Brits often eat this with a basket of Peshwari nan or steam basmati rice. Nowadays, there are many tikka variations using various types of meats and spices, like the Mirchi Murgh Tikka and the Dill Salmon Tikka. 
• Simple, comforting grub during the colder, rainy days: As London weather is infamous for being largely frigid or rainy, curry is a staple grub among most families and friends looking to warm up. The comforting feeling of warm spices topped on steaming-hot rice or nan will surely turn any cold day around. 

Now that you have a better understanding of the love of curry in the UK, you need to try it for yourself! Grab your favourite Brit and grub on a healthy amount of chicken tikka, until it warms your heart as the simple joys of an iconic British staple! 

Looking for the best Indian restaurant around London Bridge? We are Tower Tandoori, an authentic Indian place with traditional Anglo-Indian classics and fusions. Satisfy your curry craving with us!