The holidays are here, and what better way to spend a chilly evening than snuggled up with a delicious Indian feast? Whether you’re a curry connoisseur or just curious about what to try next, ordering from your favourite Indian takeaway near you is the perfect way to treat yourself without stepping out into the cold.
From comforting curries to crispy starters and indulgent desserts, there’s so much to choose from. Let’s take a look at some of the best dishes to make your cosy night in extra special.
Start Things Off Right: Tasty Starters
Every great meal needs a cracking start, right? Indian starters are perfect for getting those taste buds going.
- Samosas: These little triangles of joy are stuffed with spiced potatoes, peas, or minced meat. Crunchy, savoury, and totally addictive!
- Onion Bhajis: Fancy something crispy? These fried onion fritters are packed with flavour and crunch. They’re a great snack while you decide what to watch.
- Tandoori Chicken: Love smoky, spicy flavours? This marinated chicken, cooked perfectly in a tandoor, is juicy and oh-so-tasty.
Check your local Indian restaurant menu for these classics—you won’t regret it!
Cosy Curries You’ll Crave
Let’s talk curries—the heart and soul of Indian food. These dishes are warm, hearty, and loaded with spices that feel like a big, tasty hug.
- Butter Chicken: A creamy tomato sauce, tender chicken, and just the right hint of spices. It’s the perfect pick for a cosy night.
- Paneer Tikka Masala: A vegetarian favourite with chunks of paneer (Indian cheese) in a rich, spiced gravy. Even meat lovers adore this one!
- Lamb Rogan Josh: This curry’s all about deep, bold flavours with melt-in-your-mouth lamb pieces. A true winter warmer.
- Vegetable Korma: Not a fan of too much spice? This creamy, mild curry with loads of veggies will hit the spot.
Most Indian takeaways near you let you choose your spice level, so you can go mild, medium, or fire-breathing dragon—your call!
Bread and Rice: Curry’s Best Mates
You can’t have curry without something to scoop it up with, right? Here’s what to order on the side:
- Garlic Naan: Soft, fluffy, and garlicky—this bread was made for dunking into curry.
- Peshwari Naan: Want a sweet twist? This naan is filled with coconut and nuts, giving it a unique flavour.
- Jeera Rice: Simple yet packed with flavour, this cumin-spiced rice is a solid choice for any curry.
- Biryani: Looking for something more filling? Biryani is a fragrant mix of spiced rice and either meat or veggies—a meal on its own.
Make sure to grab one or two sides to complete your feast.
Spice It Up with Street Food
If you’re up for trying something different, Indian street food is where it’s at!
- Chaat: A mix of crispy bits, tangy chutneys, yoghurt, and spices. It’s like a flavour explosion in every bite.
- Kathi Rolls: Think of these as Indian wraps filled with spiced chicken, paneer, or veggies. Easy to eat and ridiculously tasty.
- Pav Bhaji: This buttery veggie mash, served with toasted bread rolls, is comfort food at its best.
Not every Indian restaurant has these, but if you spot them on the menu, definitely give them a go.
Don’t Forget Dessert
Finish your cosy meal on a sweet note with one of these classic Indian desserts:
- Gulab Jamun: Soft, syrup-soaked dough balls that are sweet, sticky, and oh-so-good.
- Kheer: A creamy rice pudding with a hint of cardamom and a sprinkle of nuts—perfect for the holidays.
- Kulfi: Indian-style ice cream that’s denser and creamier than regular ice cream. Flavours like mango and pistachio are a must-try!
How to Make It Extra Easy
Ordering Indian food has never been simpler, thanks to online food ordering systems. Just type “Indian takeaway near me” or “takeaways near me” into your browser, and you’ll have a world of options at your fingertips.
Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Look for combo deals—many restaurants offer meal bundles, especially during the holiday season.
- Check reviews to find the best Indian restaurant in London (or wherever you are).
- Use contactless delivery for a no-hassle, cosy experience.
Drinks to Go with Your Feast
Pairing your Indian food with the right drink takes things to the next level.
- Beer: A crisp lager works wonders with spicy dishes.
- Wine: Sweet wines like Riesling or full-bodied reds like Shiraz are great options.
- Masala Chai: For something non-alcoholic, spiced tea is always a winner.
Why Supporting Local Matters
This holiday season, ordering from your local Indian takeaway isn’t just about great food—it’s about supporting small businesses too. Many restaurants have earned Restaurant awards or local accolades for their incredible food, so you know you’re in good hands.
Wrap Up Your Cosy Night
With so many delicious options, there’s no better way to spend a chilly evening than with an Indian feast. So, grab your phone, search for “Indian takeaway near me,” and let your taste buds do the rest.
Light some candles, put on your comfiest pyjamas, and let the bold flavours of Indian food turn your ordinary night into something special. Go on, you’ve earned it!
