Why Do British Love Indian Cuisine: A Glimpse of History
SUHEL AHMED • 22 July 2021
The British occupied India for almost 200 years. There is no denying that their occupation influenced India greatly, but the inhabitants of South Asia also had great influence over their colonisers.
For example, the phrase “Going for a curry?” is a commonly used expression in the UK, which only shows how significant the impact of India is on their culture. In this article, we will explore how deep that is in terms of Indian food.
The Timeline: When Did Indian Food Reach Britain
The influence started as early as the 18th century. After establishing trade between great distances, British travellers began to fall in love with India and its culture. Many left Europe to live in India with the locals, while others returned home with India’s treasures. Many Indians also went to live in the United Kingdom.
Frequent travellers between the nations found that the first thing they looked forward to is tasting Indian food again. Besides being healthy, Indian food uses various herbs and spices to create rich and incredibly complex flavours.
That led to the introduction of Indian food at a cafe called Coffee House in the Haymarket of London in 1773. That venture inspired many entrepreneurs to bring the cuisine to the country. The first full Indian restaurant in Britain was opened in 1810 by Sake Dean Mahomed. He called the place the Hindostanee Coffee House.
Currently, the oldest surviving Indian restaurant you will see in the country is called Veeraswami. It was opened in 1926 by the great-grandson of an English General and Indian Mughal princess.
Queen Victoria and Her First Encounter With the Indian Food
One unforgettable moment in the history of Indian food was when Queen Victoria first had her taste of authentic Indian food. It was a curry brought in by her beloved servant and friend, Abdul Karim. From then on, Abdul was made to cook her the same menu on most days of the week.
Slowly, people from outside the castle started hearing about the news and got curious about the food and its taste.
British People’s Love for Indian Food
If you are curious as to how this love came about, besides Queen Victoria’s influence, here are the reasons the British people are so fond of the Indian food:
- The Adventurous Experience
The British see Indian food as something adventurous. The spices used are uncommon to the British palette, especially since they are undeniably strong and varied. Indian dishes are so complex that no two houses might have the same recipe for the same dish.
- The Great Flavours
You would never find food in India that is not rich in flavour, which is another reason the British love it. There is so much in every bite that the experience is new every time.
- The Healthiness
A bonus perk that comes with an Indian meal is the nutrients. One delicious meal, and you would have various vitamins and minerals in your system. Indians love to use many vegetables and spices in their food so you can guarantee healthy eating.
Conclusion
People love Indian food, and British people are among the top fans because of its rich flavour, authentic taste, and strong appeal to their tastebuds. It has been a favourite since the 18th century, and the love for the cuisine has never stopped.
If you are craving Indian food right now, get a meal from the best Indian restaurant
in London? Tower Tandoori has been serving the British community with great Indian food for more than 40 years. Grab a taste of Indian food today.
Discover the diverse tastes of traditional Indian food at Tower Tandoori, from North's creamy curries to South's spicy coconut delights near London Bridge.
Explore the Curry House at London Bridge for authentic flavours. Learn to choose the right dishes for a balanced meal at Tower Tandoori.
Discover solutions for perfecting your curry at home. Learn how to fix common issues and be inspired by Tower Tandoori, a top curry restaurant in London.
Explore Tandoori restaurants in London and discover the rich flavours and traditions. Visit Tower Tandoori for an unforgettable dining experience. Read on!
Explore the delicious variety of Indian dishes available for takeaway. Enjoy tandoori takeaway from Tower Tandoori for authentic flavours at home.
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.
Discover how to enjoy the best Indian buffet in London at Tower Tandoori. Find tips for portion control, sharing meals, and savouring leftovers.
Explore the reasons behind variations in Indian food tandoori flavours, from regional spice blends to local London preferences and ingredient quality.
Discover top tips for savouring a curry house at London Bridge. Explore diverse menus, perfect pairings, and the unique ambiance at Tower Tandoori.
Learn to master tandoori dishes at home with Tower Tandoori's guide. Discover marination techniques and fixing tips for that restaurant-quality taste.
