The Basics of Indian Cuisine for Beginners - What to Know
9 July 2020
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Indian cuisine can be intimidating, especially if you’ve only ever sampled Western food. There is so much variety across the region that nearly every restaurant experience is different from the rest, depending on the area from which the chefs originate.
And while it may take a lifetime to fully understand Indian cuisine, this guide might just give you a working knowledge of the basics—just enough to appreciate Indian food without feeling intimidated by the menu.
What are the types of Indian appetizers?
Indian street food is often used as appetizers in restaurants, and are often deep-fried and delicious snacks involving batter-coated ingredients dipped in various sauces.
Bhajji or Pakoras. Bhajji are crispy deep-fried balls of spicy chickpea batter often served with a mint sauce called chutney. There are varieties called onion bhajji, which involve adding thin slices of onion to chickpea.
Samosas. Samosa is a popular appetizer or street food, which involves a small amount of spiced potato or meat wrapped in dough, and then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy.
Vada Pav. Vadas are deep-fried dumplings or flattened potato patties, and pavs are plain dinner rolls. A vada pav is essentially a spicy vegetable slider where the dumpling is squeezed between two halves of a dinner roll.
The vada pav is often partnered with sauces like chutney or green mint.
The types of Indian bread
A lot of bread in Indian food is flat because of the type of flour and methods of cooking used to make them. Naan is the most common type of bread in Indian restaurants, but there are other types that are worth exploring.
Naan. Naan is made from wheat flour dough that is allowed to rise with yeast or yoghurt in the dough. It is then rolled flat and cooked in a Tandoor, which is an Indian type of oven. Naan sees regular use in many Indian restaurants.
Roti. Roti is more popular in homes, made with whole wheat flour kneaded into a soft dough. It is then cooked on an Indian skillet called a tava on top of a stove.
Poori. Poori are flat dough circles that are deep-fried in ghee or oil until they’re puffy and crispy on the outside, and typically served with aloo ki sazi or stir-fried potatoes.
Classic Indian meals
Tikka Masala. Tikka is Hindi for “small chunks,” while masala means a blend of spices. As such, a tikka masala is any type of vegetable or meat cooked with a masala spice blend and a sauce (typically tomato). Depending on the household or restaurant, everyone’s masala is different.
Chana masala. Chana or chole masala is a dish with chickpeas cooked in an onion, ginger, and garlic sauce with garam masala added to it. It is known for its spiciness and is typically served with either Bhature bread or Kulcha bread.
Saag Paneer. This dish, which is also known as Palak Paneer, is a delicious curry of spinach cooked with spices, with paneer added.
Rogan josh. This dish is partially influenced by Persian cuisine, which consists of pieces of lamb or mutton, served with a gravy of garlic, ginger, and aromatic spices like cloves, bay leaves, cardamom, and cinnamon. Some versions include a mix of onions or yoghurt.
Drinks
Chai. Chai is the Indian word for tea, made with milk, and black tea. Other spices such as ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, or even ginger can be added to turn it into a masala chai. It generally has a thick and creamy texture and is known for its warming feeling when consumed.
Lassi. Lassi is a sweet yoghurt drink made with thinned out yoghurt that is sweetened for flavour. Some cream is added to make it thick and rich. Fruit can be added for variety, such as mangoes and strawberries.
Chas. This is a savoury buttermilk drink that incorporates cumin, mint, and rock salt that is consumed as an aid for good digestion after meals.
Conclusion
Indian food has fantastic variety, and eating at an Indian restaurant can be a delicious experience especially if you know even the basics of Indian cuisine. It is perfect for someone looking to expand their palates into more complex flavour profiles outside their culture.
As for the best Indian food in London, give us at Tower Tandoori a call. We have over 40 years of experience preparing the best Indian food for Londoners of all shapes, ages, and sizes. Book a table and let us serve you today!
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Exploring the vibrant array of dining options near Tower Bridge can be a rewarding adventure. Whether you're a London local or just passing through, discovering where to find the best Indian food adds a delightful culinary twist to your experience. With so much to choose from, it’s always helpful to know a spot that offers rich flavours and a variety of options to suit every palette. Right around the corner from London Bridge, you'll find a culinary gem waiting to be discovered. Finding an amazing Indian restaurant close to London Bridge combines convenience with the joy of indulging in authentic, mouth-watering dishes. This area offers easy access to delightful eateries, perfect for an afternoon meal after sightseeing or a cosy dinner as the city lights illuminate the river. Whether you crave something familiar like a Chicken Tikka Masala or wish to discover new spices and flavours, there is something here for everyone. 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. From the diversity of dishes on offer to the thought put into every element of the meal, there’s an adventure to be had in every mouthful. The unique blend of history, taste, and friendly service creates an environment where every meal becomes part of an unforgettable journey. Dining near the River Thames offers not just a feast for the palate but a visual treat as well. As you savour the range of vibrant dishes, take a moment to appreciate the bustling backdrop that completes your dining experience. There’s something truly special about finding a place that fulfills both culinary cravings and offers a memorable evening out, right in the heart of London. After exploring the flavours and wonderful atmosphere, you might still crave a deeper culinary experience at Tower Tandoori. Dive into the diverse offerings of an Indian restaurant at Tower Bridge with our À La Carte Menu, crafted to thrill your taste buds and capture the essence of authentic Indian cuisine. 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