Facts About Indian Cuisine You Might Not Have Heard Of

SUHEL AHMED • 14 October 2021
Indian food is more than just makhani and chicken tikka. It’s as rich and diverse as the country it hails from. Each region boasts its own style of flavorful curry, you could eat nothing but curry for weeks and never repeat a meal. Food and flavour are points of culture and pride in India. Here are some facts about Indian cuisine that may intrigue you.

“The Land of Spices”

Throughout history, rulers, nobles and merchants from all over the world sent thousands of ships to India to trade for its variety of spices. So coveted are these delicious ingredients that wars were waged over them. To this day, India is the largest spice producer in the world. Over 70% of the world’s spices come from India alone. It’s no wonder that it earned the nickname “The Land of Spices.”

The Six Tastes

Most Western cuisines subscribe to the idea that there are five main tastes (formerly four, until the addition of Japan’s ‘umami’ in recent history). In Indian cuisine, there are six primary tastes, also known as rasas. There’s sweet or madhura, sour or amala, salty or lavana, pungent or katu, bitter or tikta and astringent or kasya.

Three Primary Food Categories

There are three types of food according to Ayurveda, India’s ancient medicinal system. 

The first is Satvic, all-natural food that has not seen much processing. Satvic foods like raw vegetables are considered to have a cleansing effect on both the mind and body. 

The second is Rajasic, which is an oily and flavorful kind of food. The spice in this kind of food is believed to stimulate and invigorate those who eat it. Rajasic food fills them with ambition.

Lastly, there is Tamasic, highly processed food that is toxic to the body and leaves bad effects on the mind. Food in this category is hard to digest.

Home of the Reaper

You’ve probably seen challenge videos floating around the internet where people eat a wrinkly, bright red pepper, what some call the hottest pepper on earth. That’s the ghost pepper or bhut jolokia, and it finds its roots in the states of Pradesh, Arunachal, Assam, Manipur, and Nagaland in India. In 2007, it ranked the hottest pepper in the world with over 1 million Scovilles according to the Guinness World Records. It has since been unseated, but it is still unbelievably spicy.

Vegetarian-Friendly

Indian cuisine is one of the most vegetarian-friendly out there. While 71% of the country’s population does consume meat, it’s incredibly easy to switch to a no-meat diet if you want or need to. This is due to India’s incredibly fertile land, robust agriculture and cultural ideals. 

The Origins of Candy

The word “candy” as we know it used to be as simple as crystallised sugarcane juice. Ancient Indians developed a way to turn the juice into rock-like lumps. They called these lumps of crystallised sugar “khanda.” Khanda eventually became anglicised to candy. 

Conclusion

Indian food is incredibly interesting and diverse. Its history is as colourful and vast as its flavour profiles. It ranges from sweet and delightful, warm and comforting, or fiery and challenging. One thing’s for sure; it’s never a boring meal with Indian food at the table.

If it’s the best Indian restaurant in London you’re looking for, Tower Tandoori is the answer! We’re one of the oldest Indian restaurants in London, with no less than authentic Indian food on our menu. 

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Enjoy the beauty of Tower Bridge, and then dive into the aromatic world of Indian cuisine nearby. A Culinary Journey at Tower Tandoori Tower Tandoori holds a special place as one of the oldest Indian restaurants in London. Its rich history and dedication to serving authentic Indian food make it a must-visit destination. With decades of experience, the restaurant has perfected its offerings to provide guests with an authentic taste of India. Imagine stepping into a restaurant where every detail connects you to the culinary traditions of a far-off land; that's the kind of experience Tower Tandoori strives to offer its patrons. So, what makes Tower Tandoori stand out? Firstly, the restaurant mixes time-honoured cooking methods with contemporary tastes. The skilled chefs blend spices to create complex, flavourful dishes that cater to both traditional and modern palates. Here are some highlights that draw frequent patrons back: - Warm Ambiance: Step into an inviting atmosphere where hospitality and comfort blend seamlessly. The decor and friendly service create an overall experience that complements the meal. - Authentic Flavours: The menu faithfully represents classic Indian dishes, offering a wide selection for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian guests. - Prime Location: Situated close to Tower Bridge, the restaurant offers not just culinary delights but also the charm of dining near one of London's iconic landmarks. This local favourite, marked by its history and warm service, promises an unforgettable dining experience amid the bustling energy of London Bridge. Whether you're seeking a casual meal or celebrating a special occasion, this spot invites you to unwind and savour the diverse flavours of Indian cuisine. Must-Try Dishes at Tower Tandoori When dining at Tower Tandoori, the menu offers a range of dishes to suit every taste, making it difficult to choose just one. However, some classics must not be missed. The Chicken Tikka Masala is a favourite, known for its creamy sauce packed with the right mix of spices and tender chicken pieces. Lamb Rogan Josh is another standout, savouring the nuanced layers of flavour enhanced by the slow-cooked lamb. For those eager to expand their culinary experience, the Goan Fish Curry offers a refreshing yet flavourful choice. This dish brings the coastal touch of Goa to your plate, with a perfect blend of coconut, tamarind, and fresh spices that create a tangy and aromatic masterpiece. Venturing further, the Paneer Makhani is a delightful vegetarian dish, offering a rich and buttery sauce with soft paneer cubes, a firm favourite amongst plant-based selections. Perfect Pairings: Drinks and Sides Pairing the right drink or side with your meal can elevate the experience significantly. Indian flavours often call for a refreshing beverage to balance the spices. Mango lassi, with its creamy texture and sweet flavour, complements many dishes beautifully, providing a cooling effect. Alternatively, a traditional masala chai rounds off the meal with its aromatic spices and rich taste. The sides are equally important in rounding out your meal. Garlic naan, with its buttery and aromatic scent, works perfectly when used to scoop up curry, adding a garlicky edge to each bite. Additionally, basmati rice is a staple, its long grains perfectly capturing the sauce and acting as the ideal base for rich curry dishes. Including these pairings ensures a complete and satisfying dining experience. Creating a Memorable Dining Experience To make the most of your visit to Tower Tandoori, timing and seating can enhance your outing. Visiting during quieter hours allows for a relaxed meal where you can truly savour every bite. Opt for seating with a view if possible, where you can enjoy glimpses of bustling city life or the serene flow of the Thames. The ambiance inside plays a big role, with the decor providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere perfect for both intimate dinners and lively group celebrations.  Whether it's a casual lunch or a special dinner, the ambience adds a layer of charm. Conversation flows easily in such a comfortable setting, where every detail has been considered to make guests feel at ease. Special occasions seem more special and ordinary evenings transform into something memorable, as the friendly staff takes care of your every need. Savour the Best Flavours Near Tower Bridge Exploring the culinary delights around Tower Bridge is an experience not to be missed, especially when it includes authentic Indian food at one of the city's iconic spots. 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Discover new favourites or relive classic delights as you enjoy a memorable meal in the heart of London.
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