Indian food is world-renowned for its exotic flavours and tantalising aromas. At the heart of many Indian dishes lies the heat and passion of spice, making it a veritable haven for those who love a good kick to their meals. 

While not all Indian dishes are spicy, many of them pack a seriously fiery punch. If you're a fan of spicy food, this article will take you on a culinary tour of some of India's spiciest dishes, guaranteed to make your mouth water and your eyes tear up in equal measure. 

So strap in and get ready to embark on a journey through the land of chillies, peppers, and tongue-tingling heat.

1. Phall Curry: The Mother of All Curries

Hailing from the Indian subcontinent, the phall curry is often considered one of the spiciest dishes in the world. This ferociously hot curry is said to have originated in Indian restaurants in the UK but has since made its way back to India. 

It is made with a blend of 10-12 different chillies, including the infamous Bhut Jolokia (ghost pepper), which is one of the hottest chillies on the planet. The heat of the curry is further amplified by the generous use of spices like black pepper, paprika, and cumin. 

If you're brave enough to try this dish, make sure you have plenty of yoghurt or raita on hand to help quell the fire.

2. Vindaloo: The Portuguese-Inspired Indian Classic

The Vindaloo is a famous Indian curry that gets its name from the Portuguese dish "carne de vinha d'alhos" (meat marinated in wine and garlic). The Indian version, however, is a far cry from its mild European counterpart, with a fiery combination of chillies, garlic, vinegar, and spices. 

The traditional vindaloo is made with pork, but you can also find versions with chicken, beef, or even vegetables. While not as scorching as the phall curry, the vindaloo is still not for the faint-hearted – this dish is guaranteed to make you sweat.

3. Laal Maas: The Royal Rajasthani Delight

Laal Maas, which translates to "red meat," is a traditional Rajasthani dish that was once reserved for the royalty of Rajasthan. This lamb-based curry gets its red colour and spiciness from the generous use of the fiery Mathania red chillies, which are unique to the region. 

The dish is further enhanced with a blend of spices, such as cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom, and slow-cooked to tender perfection. The heat of the Laal Maas is beautifully balanced by the smoky flavour of the slow-cooked meat, making it an unforgettable dining experience for spice lovers.

4. Andhra Chilli Chicken: A Southern Spice Sensation

Andhra Pradesh, a state in the south of India, is known for its love of chillies and spicy food. Andhra Chilli Chicken is a testament to this, as it features a fiery combination of green and red chillies, along with a host of other spices. 

This dry dish is prepared by marinating the chicken in a spicy paste and then stir-frying it with onions, curry leaves, and more chillies. The result is a lip-smacking, tear-jerking dish that will leave you wanting more, despite the heat.

5. Bhut Jolokia Chutney: The Ghost Pepper Experience

For those who want to experience the full fury of the Bhut Jolokia (ghost pepper), look no further than the Bhut Jolokia chutney. This spicy condiment hails from Assam, a northeastern state of India, where the ghost pepper is widely grown and consumed. 

The chutney is made by grinding the ghost peppers with tomatoes, garlic, and other spices, resulting in a fiery sauce that can be eaten with rice, meat, or vegetables. Be warned though, the Bhut Jolokia is one of the hottest peppers in the world, with a Scoville rating of over 1 million units, so this chutney is not for the faint-hearted.

Conclusion

India offers a diverse range of spicy dishes that are not only delicious but also a testament to the country's rich culinary heritage. However, it's important to remember that not all Indian dishes are spicy, and plenty of milder options are available for those who prefer a more subtle flavour. 

So whether you're a fan of spicy food or not, India's cuisine is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.

Craving authentic Indian food? It's best to visit a reputable restaurant with a long track record of serving mouthwatering dishes. Tower Tandoori, recognised as the best Indian restaurant near London Bridge, has been showcasing the country's rich and diverse food culture and customs since 1978. Check out our enticing menu and visit us today!