At Tower Tandoori, the secret to our delicious Indian cuisine is simple: fresh ingredients. Freshness is the foundation of our cooking, giving our dishes a vibrant taste that stands out. We believe that the best meals start with the best ingredients, which is why we go to great lengths to source the freshest produce for our menu.

Using fresh ingredients is not just about flavour; it’s also about health. Fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices are packed with nutrients that are often lost in processed or long-stored foods. By using ingredients at their peak, we ensure that our dishes are not only tasty but also nutritious. This commitment to freshness translates into meals that are both satisfying and good for you.

We take pride in our relationships with local suppliers, who provide us with the best seasonal produce. This local sourcing not only supports the community but also allows us to offer dishes that reflect the freshest ingredients available. Each season brings its own variety of produce, and we adjust our menu accordingly to make the most of these natural offerings. Join us as we explore how we use fresh ingredients to craft the delicious Indian food we serve every day.

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients in Indian Cuisine

Freshness is key in Indian cooking. Indian cuisine is known for its vibrant flavours and complex spice blends, both of which are best achieved using fresh ingredients. Fresh herbs, like coriander and mint, release their essential oils fully, providing a burst of flavour that dried herbs just can't match. Fresh vegetables retain their crunch and colour, adding texture and visual appeal to our dishes.

Using fresh ingredients also means we can avoid preservatives and additives found in processed foods. This aligns with our commitment to offering healthier, more natural meals to our guests. The purity and authenticity of our dishes are directly linked to the freshness of our ingredients, providing a culinary experience that’s as wholesome as it is tasty.

There are significant health benefits to using fresh ingredients. Fresh produce is richer in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making our dishes not only delicious but also nutritious. Ingredients such as turmeric and garlic, which are staples in Indian cooking, have powerful health properties. Fresh turmeric contains anti-inflammatory compounds, while garlic is known to boost the immune system. By using these ingredients fresh, we maximise their health benefits, ensuring that our food keeps you feeling your best.

Local Sourcing: How We Choose Our Ingredients

We prioritise local sourcing to ensure that our ingredients are as fresh as possible. By partnering with local farmers and suppliers, we reduce the time it takes for produce to go from the field to our kitchen. This means fresher ingredients and better-tasting dishes. Our relationships with local suppliers are built on trust and a shared commitment to quality.

The process of selecting the freshest produce involves rigorous standards. We visit local markets and farms regularly to hand-pick fruits, vegetables, and herbs. This hands-on approach allows us to choose the best-quality ingredients, ensuring that only the freshest are used in our recipes. We look for vibrant colours, firm textures, and fragrant aromas, all indicators of fresh produce.

Additionally, by sourcing locally, we support our community and reduce our carbon footprint. Local sourcing means less transportation, which is better for the environment. It also helps us contribute to the local economy, supporting farmers and suppliers in our area. This practice not only benefits us but also our community and the planet.

Signature Dishes Made with Fresh Ingredients

At Tower Tandoori, several signature dishes showcase our commitment to using fresh ingredients. Here are a few examples and how their freshness enhances the taste:

1. Chicken Tikka Masala: This classic dish is made with juicy pieces of chicken marinated in fresh yoghurt and spices. The yoghurt tenderises the meat, ensuring a succulent texture, while the fresh spices provide a depth of flavour that pre-ground spices can't match.

2. Saag Paneer: Made with fresh spinach and homemade paneer cheese, this dish offers a rich, earthy flavour. The fresh spinach is packed with nutrients and retains its vibrant green colour, making the dish not just tasty but visually appealing.

3. Mango Lassi: This refreshing drink combines fresh mangoes and yoghurt. The natural sweetness of ripe mangoes eliminates the need for added sugars, creating a healthy and delicious beverage perfect for cooling down.

Fresh ingredients ensure that these dishes are not only flavourful but also nutritious. Fresh herbs and spices maintain their essential oils and volatile compounds, which are crucial for their aromatic properties. This enhances the overall experience, making each bite a burst of fresh, authentic flavour.

Seasonal Ingredients and Menu Changes

We adjust our menu based on seasonal availability, taking full advantage of what each season has to offer. By using seasonal ingredients, we ensure our dishes are packed with the freshest flavours. For example, in spring, we incorporate fresh peas and asparagus into our recipes, while summer sees the addition of juicy tomatoes and cucumbers.

Cooking with seasonal ingredients benefits both the flavour and sustainability of our dishes. Seasonal produce is often more affordable and has a lower environmental impact, as it requires less energy for growth and transportation. This practice allows us to offer the best quality food while supporting sustainable farming practices.

Adjusting our menu with the seasons also keeps our offerings dynamic and exciting. Our chefs get creative with new ingredients, crafting innovative dishes that surprise and delight our guests. This seasonal approach means there’s always something new to enjoy each time you visit, showing our commitment to freshness and quality in every dish we serve.

Conclusion

Fresh ingredients are at the heart of everything we do at Tower Tandoori. By prioritising freshness, we create meals that are full of flavour and beneficial for your health. Our commitment to local sourcing ensures that we select the finest produce, supporting our community and enhancing the quality of our dishes.

Our signature dishes highlight how fresh ingredients elevate the taste and nutrition of our cuisine. Whether it’s the tender chicken in our Chicken Tikka Masala or the vibrant greens in our Saag Paneer, the freshness makes a noticeable difference.

Seasonal cooking keeps our menu varied and exciting, allowing us to bring you the best of each season. This not only enhances the flavour and quality of our meals but also promotes sustainability.

At Tower Tandoori, we invite you to taste the difference that fresh ingredients make. Come and experience the seasonal menu at the oldest Indian restaurant in London, crafted with care and dedication to quality. Book a table today and discover the true flavours of our authentic Indian cuisine.