Bright Flavors of India: What are the Uses of Turmeric in Indian Cuisine?

SUHEL AHMED • 9 December 2020
The flavorful and colourful world of Indian cuisine is bursting with flavorful, homegrown spices and herbs. These are the ingredients that build India’s palate with its mouth-burning kick and complex flavor pairings. Indian dishes also take pride in being a treasure trove of medicinal benefits, making their spices coveted worldwide.

One of the most iconic spices native to southwest India is turmeric (Haldi), which is a desi spice that originates from a leafy plant in the ginger family. It’s what gives most curries its unforgettable, bright yellow colour, aroma, and pleasant touches of bitterness that give the dish a well-rounded flavour profile. 

What Makes Turmeric a Staple Spice in Indian Dishes?

Seeing as turmeric is made from the ground roots of Curcuma longa of the ginger family, it has a pungent and bitter taste with a hint of brightness. It’s not a strong spice compared to other aromatics, but it can do wonders in adding depth to dishes like chicken jalfrezi, Punjabi samosa, chicken kurma, and other Indian staples. 

Turmeric is also widely used as a colouring agent in savoury dishes alongside other gastronomic delights like baked goods, dairy foods, cereal, and even ice cream. Beyond its crucial addition in several dishes, it’s widely used around the world for its health-boosting properties. 

What are the Benefits of Turmeric?

Beyond its flavorful and colourful addition to Indian dishes, turmeric plays a pivotal role in the ancient Ayurveda practice, which focuses on enhancing one’s holistic health. Turmeric is chock-full of medicinal properties - from antioxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal compounds working together to whip up a health-boosting meal. 

Some of its health benefits include the following: 

Benefit #1: Aids in Digestion 

Thanks to its medicinal properties, turmeric can effectively improve digestion by triggering its bile production. This enhances the digestive process by smoothing out the tracts, which mitigate the development of gas and other bloating symptoms. 

Benefit #2: Improve Healing 

Beyond food, turmeric is also used as a tea to boost the body’s natural healing process thanks to its antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Older generations would even suggest sprinkling turmeric over burns or cuts, though indulging in hearty dishes with turmeric working behind all the magic can deliver the same benefits. 

Benefit #3: Ease Arthritis Symptoms 

Seeing as turmeric is packed with anti-inflammatory properties, including it in your daily diet can help soothe conditions like arthritis. It eases the swelling and manages the pain that comes with it, making it just as effective in providing relief in patients with similar chronic conditions. 

The Bottom Line: A Historic Taste of Turmeric and How it Completes Staples in Indian Cuisine

Turmeric is a flavorful and health-boosting spice that can enhance almost any dish, beverage, or dessert, making it one of the best elixir that completes Indian staples. 

Why Dine in Tower Tandoori?

Craving for a hearty taste that will introduce your taste buds to an explosion of spices? Dig into our rich menu at Tower Tandoori, one of London’s oldest Indian restaurants where you can satisfy your hunger for authentic delicacies. 
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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. Discover new favourites or relive classic delights as you enjoy a memorable meal in the heart of London.
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