Okay, let’s be honest — we all have that one Indian curry that is our absolute favourite. For some of us, it can be butter chicken, while others may enjoy a good vindaloo that clears the sinuses after a long day of work. The point is, most people don’t realise just how many different kinds of curries there are to eat in India, and you don’t need to be travelling to discover them as they can be enjoyed from the comfort of your sofa.
So the next time you plan on scheduling an ‘Indian Takeaway Near Me’ on Google, try playing around with the idea of switching up your usual favourites. Dive into the regional curries that India has to offer because they aren’t as difficult to access as you’d think. Each dish is packed and bursting with culture, history, tradition, and bold flavours.
Not All Curries Are Made the Same
Culinary experts may argue that one curry can be fundamentally different from another. But we tend to take a word that is so rich and douse it in simplicity, as if ‘curry’ is just one singular dish. Indians don’t eat like that. Different places serve different variations of curry, which is a blessing because all tastes generally differ and come with their own unique sets of spices and regional influences.
The next time you visit your local Indian restaurant or plan to order some food online, try browsing the menu for some lesser-known items. You might be in for an amazing surprise.
Northern Indian Curries: Full of Comfort and Rich in Cream
North Indian cooking has left a mark on the world, and you can find out when you try Tikka Masala or Korma. These dishes are guaranteed to have spices in their creamy base and are rich in flavour.
Rogan Josh (from Kashmir)
This dish is a Kashmiri Lamb Curry. This curry is for people who prefer flavourful and mildly spiced gravy. This lamb is very flavourful and serves as the best fit for rice or chapati. As Indians become more interested in Kashmiri cuisine, this dish should be at the top of the must-try list, as it is widely available in many Indian restaurants.
Butter Chicken (from Delhi)
It is safe to say that from the first glance and the first taste of butter chicken, nobody can say no to it, and it garners all the love and admiration it deserves. You'd be properly nurtured with yummy, soft chicken that's been simmered in a satiating, rich gravy with a foundation of tomato and butter, all mixed in with buttery goodness. You can experience bliss when you swallow it, especially from an award-winning place.
Paneer Tikka Masala (from Punjab)
Cheese lovers, better tune in because this one is coming in hot. Punjabi style, paneer tikka masala dons its best spicy self, adding a punch to the succulent cheese-filled curry by thick paneer – an Eastern type of cheese that triumphantly cradles itself into the dish. The resulting combination? Unbelievably unbeatable.
Southern Indian Curries: Rich in Coconuts and Spices
If you enjoy the addition of coconut to your meals and wish it were packed with spiciness, you might want to check out South Indian curries. These full-of-flavour dishes are sure to leave an impression.
Chettinad Chicken (Tamil Nadu)
This has to be one of the boldest curries out there. Black pepper, roasted spices, and extreme amounts of heat. Not for the faint-hearted, but wow — it’s good.
Prawn Moilee (Kerala)
If you’re looking for something on the lighter side, this coconut-based curry should do the trick. It includes turmeric, curry leaves, and a great balance of flavour. One for the seafood lovers.
Andhra Lamb Curry
This one brings the fire. It is said to be one of the hottest curries in India, so if you’re into serious spice, give this one a go when you’re tired of everything else.
Eastern Indian Curries: Mustard, Fish, and Big Flavour
The eastern part of India, especially Bengal, is renowned for its love of mustard and seafood. Not so famous on UK menus - but totally worth the hunt.
Machher Jhol (Bengal)
A simple fish curry made with potatoes, tomatoes, and mustard oil sounds dull, but the flavour is anything but that.
Shukto
A dish loaded with veggies, but it might take you some time to acquire the taste. This one has bitter gourd along with a blend of spices. If you're looking to try something entirely new, this is the one.
Western Indian Curries: Spice and Heritage Combined
The dashes of vinegar, along with bold spices accentuated with Portuguese influences, mark the distinct identity of Goa and Maharashtra.
Vindaloo (Goa)
Set aside the super-hot formulation you have when hungover. A true Goan Vindaloo has layers of spice, a strong, garlicky taste, and a tangy finish. Adding heat isn’t the main aim, but adding different flavours sure is.
Prawn Balchão
What happens when a spicy curry mixes with pickles? Well, it tastes and smells sharp, intensely hot, and downright addictive.
How to Spot a Good Curry on the Menu
Brutally honest here for a second — when looking for ‘takeaway near me’ on your phone at 7 pm, you’re almost certainly hoping for something quick and handy. Try this idea out, though: if a menu is detailed, then it probably has more care and love put into it. Watch for dishes with names that mention regions, or better yet, ask!
You Don't Need to Travel Far to Taste Something New
With the advancement of delivery applications, one can enjoy great curry food while staying in the comfort of one's own home. If you are looking to order an Indian dish, a good place to start would be “seafood lamb veg” followed by “hot spicy something. You can expect to receive your food in under an hour from the time you place your order.
Whatever the case is, just type in “Indian takeaway near me” in Google and order away. Start scrolling through the menus and reading reviews.
Final Bite
So, the next time you are looking through an Indian restaurant for your average Friday night Indian takeout, pause for a second. Scroll past the safe options and choose something you have never tried before. From rich Northern Rogan Josh to spicy Chettinad in the south, to tangy Goan curry from the west, there is an abundance of flavours waiting to be tasted.
FAQs – Indian Regional Curries & Takeaways
1. Are the differences between regional Indian curries significant?
Yes, for sure! They vary in terms of ingredients, spice combinations, and even cooking methods. Embarking on a culinary tour of Indian cuisine can completely change your perception of it.
2. Are these regional dishes available in most Indian takeaways?
Some stick to the conventional menu, while others, such as contemporary or award-winning takeaways, are starting to include regional dishes. Goan, Chettinad, or Bengali should give you a clear indicator on the menu.
3. How do I choose the best Indian takeaway within my locality?
Consider the reviews, menu options, and whether they have been given a Restaurant award. They are more likely to use authentic Indian spices when discussing regional dishes.
