Tandoori cooking is an ancient culinary art form that originated in the Indian subcontinent. It has become synonymous with Indian cuisine, particularly North Indian and Punjabi dishes. This unique cooking method has been passed down through generations and continues to enthral food enthusiasts with its distinctive taste, aroma, and visual appeal. 

The secret to the unmatched flavour of tandoori dishes lies in the tandoor – a cylindrical clay oven that reaches scorching temperatures and imparts a smoky, earthy flavour to the food cooked within. In this blog section, we will dive deep into the world of tandoori cooking and explore how it works and what delicious dishes emerge from the tandoori oven.

How Tandoori Cooking Works

The tandoor oven is traditionally made of clay, though modern versions can be metal or ceramic. It is designed to retain heat and maintain high temperatures for extended periods. In a tandoor, the heat is generated by burning charcoal or wood at the bottom of the oven. The heat radiates from the walls, and the temperature can reach more than 900 degrees Fahrenheit (480 degrees Celsius), allowing for quick cooking.

The tandoor oven is unique, with a narrow opening at the top and a wider base. This allows for optimal heat distribution and air circulation, ensuring food is cooked evenly and quickly. The heat generated inside the tandoor sears the surface of the food, locking in the natural juices and flavours, while the moisture from the food rises and evaporates, creating a smoky environment that imparts a distinct taste to the dish.

Tandoori cooking is versatile, as various techniques can be employed, such as skewering, baking directly on the oven's walls, or even placing the food on a metal grill. The choice of technique depends on the dish being prepared and the desired end result.

What’s Cooking in the Ovens?

Tandoori cooking is not limited to just one type of food. It encompasses an array of dishes, from succulent meats to flavorful vegetables and even bread. Here are some popular foods that are prepared in tandoori ovens:

1. Tandoori Chicken

This iconic dish is a crowd-pleaser and a tandoori classic. Chicken pieces are marinated in a mixture of yoghurt, spices, and herbs before being skewered and cooked to perfection in the tandoor. The result is tender, juicy chicken with a beautiful smoky flavour and a vibrant red hue.

2. Naan

This soft and fluffy flatbread is a staple in Indian cuisine and is best enjoyed fresh from the tandoor. The dough is flattened and slapped onto the hot inner walls of the tandoor, where it quickly puffs up and develops a crisp, slightly charred exterior.

3. Paneer Tikka

A vegetarian favourite, paneer tikka features cubes of Indian cottage cheese marinated in a spiced yoghurt mixture and skewered with vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. The dish is cooked in the tandoor until the paneer is slightly charred and the vegetables are tender.

Conclusion

Tandoori cooking is an age-old culinary technique that has stood the test of time, making it a beloved part of Indian cuisine. The unique combination of high heat, natural clay, and aromatic spices creates flavorful, tender, and visually stunning dishes. Whether you're a meat lover or a vegetarian, a tandoori dish will captivate your taste buds and transport you to the bustling streets of India. So, the next time you enjoy a tandoori meal, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and skilful artistry behind this ancient cooking method.

Experience the authentic taste of India at Tower Tandoori, one of London's oldest Indian restaurants. Indulge in our mouth-watering tandoori cooking and discover why we're known for serving up the finest delicacies in town. Order from us today!