Indian food is often associated with spice, but not all Indian dishes are spicy. Contrary to popular belief, many Indian dishes are quite mild, using a variety of different spices to create unique flavour profiles. Indian cuisine is as diverse as the country itself, with regional dishes that vary in taste and heat.

Continue reading to learn more about Indian food and its relationship with spices.

Are Chillies Always Present in Indian Food?

No, chillies are not always present in Indian food. While they are used in many popular dishes, they are not an essential ingredient in all Indian cuisine.

There are a wide variety of dishes that are both spice-heavy and mild, so there is something to suit every taste. Whether you like your food with a kick or not, you can find plenty of delicious options in Indian cuisine.

What Are the Most Common Spices in Indian Food?

Indian cuisine is renowned for its use of spices. But what exactly are the most common spices in Indian food? Here's a closer look at some of the most popular spices used in Indian cooking:

• Turmeric — It is a spice that gives Indian dishes their characteristic yellow colour. It's used in everything from curries to rice dishes, and it's also a popular ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine.

• Cumin — It has a strong, earthy flavour and is often used to flavour curries and other dishes.

• Cardamom — It is a spice that has a sweet, floral flavour. It is commonly used in desserts and as a flavouring for coffee and tea. Cardamom is also said to be helpful in treating respiratory problems.

• Cinnamon — It is a spice with a warm, sweet flavour. It's commonly used in desserts, but it can also be used to flavour savory dishes like curries.

• Cloves — Cloves are a spice with a strong, pungent flavour. They're commonly used in Indian cuisine to flavour meat and vegetable dishes.

• Ginger — Ginger has a warm, slightly spicy flavour. It's commonly used in Indian cooking to add flavour and warmth to dishes.

These are just a few of the most common spices used in Indian cuisine. Indian food is known for its use of fresh, flavourful spices, so be sure to experiment with different spices to find the perfect flavour for your dishes.

How Can You Reduce Heat in Indian Food?

When it comes to Indian food, there are a few things that can be done to reduce the heat.

One of the best ways to do this is to use less of the hot spices in the recipe. If the recipe calls for a teaspoon of cumin, only use a half teaspoon. The same goes for chilli powder, cayenne pepper and any other hot spices.

Another way to reduce the heat in Indian food is to add more yoghurt or cream to the dish. This will help to balance out the spice and make it more palatable.

Finally, make sure to serve the dish with plenty of rice or bread, as this will help to absorb some of the heat.

Final Thoughts

Indian food is not always spicy. There is a great deal of variety in Indian cuisine, with many different regions and cultures having their own unique take on traditional dishes. While some dishes may be spicy, this is not always the case, and there are plenty of milder options available.

So, if you're looking to try something new, why not give Indian food a go? Check out Tower Tandoori, the best Indian restaurant near London Bridge. Reserve a table with us today and you might just find your new favourite dish.