Exploring Curry Types: Korma, Madras, Vindaloo

When you are hungry and are scrolling through online menus on your phone, have you searched “Indian takeaway near me” and then suddenly thought, “what’s the difference between Korma, Madras, and Vindaloo?” There are many like you who have wondered this and have gotten stuck just like you to choose the right dish. How do you know which is which from the delectable list of creamy and fiery curries?

So let's take a closer look at the three most popular Indian curry types that are featured on almost all Indian restaurants or takeaway menus in the UK

Korma – The Creamy Comfort One (Mildest Curry)

Let’s start with the chillest of the lot — Korma, often ranked as the mildest curry on most Indian curry heat scales. You can pick this if you’re not into spicy food much and prefer comfort food.

The main ingredients of Korma include cream or yoghurt, ground nuts, coconut, and gentle spices. It usually is rich and sweet, making it very satisfying.

It usually pairs well with chicken, paneer, or veg. It’s perfect with a fluffy naan to mop the sauce up. Loads of local curry places across the UK, from your nearest Curry Garden to the high-end Curry Palace, have made Korma a firm favourite — because it just works.

Best for: First-timers, kids, creamy curry lovers | Mild Indian curry UK 

Madras – The Spicy Middle Ground (Medium-Hot Curry)

Now, if you want a bit of heat, Madras is where it’s at. It’s not going to blow your head off, but it does pack a nice kick.

It’s not too mild, not too wild. Just spicy enough to make things interesting. If you're browsing “Indian takeaway near me” and not sure what to go for, Madras is a solid choice.

Perfect for: Those who like heat with balance | Popular medium curry UK 

Indian Curry Showdown: Korma vs Madras vs Vindaloo — Compared & Ranked

Korma is the velvet hug of curries — mild, creamy, and delicately spiced, born from North India’s Mughal kitchens with yogurt, nuts, and whispers of coconut. Madras turns up the heat with South Indian soul: citrusy, herbaceous, and stained red with chilies — bold, bright, and beautifully balanced. Then comes Vindaloo — Goa’s fiery heirloom with Portuguese roots, where vinegar and garlic duel with blistering chilies, often hugging pork in a marinade that doesn’t ask, it dares. Take a look at the table below for detailed comparison:

Vindaloo – The Hot One  (Spiciest Curry)

Alright, let’s not mess around. Vindaloo is hot. Like, properly hot.

This one started out in Goa with Portuguese roots, but it’s had a bit of a glow-up here in the UK. T These days, it’s one of the hottest Indian curries you’ll find — a true test of spice tolerance.. If you love your food fiery and full of flavour, Vindaloo’s your best bet.

You’ll taste vinegar, garlic, and loads of chilli in there. It’s sharp, bold and kind of addictive, if you can handle the heat. Not everyone can.

Loads of places that have picked up a Restaurant award for top curry in the UK usually nail the Vindaloo. It’s like the dish chefs love to show off with.

Just don’t say we didn’t warn you, order with caution and maybe keep a mango lassi nearby.

Wait… Is Curry Even Indian?

Good question. So, is curry British or Indian? Truth is, it’s both.

Curry comes from Indian cooking, no doubt. But what we now know as curry in the UK, especially takeaway-style, is a mix of Indian tradition and British taste. It’s been adapted, evolved, and reinvented right here.

Dishes like Korma, Madras, Vindaloo, and the good old Chicken Tikka Masala, are part of British food culture now. Whether you’re in Barnet looking for Curry Leaf Barnet, or wandering East London in search of the best Indian restaurant London has to offer, curry is everywhere.

And honestly? We love that.

Picking Your Curry Like a Pro

So next time you’re tired, hungry, and Googling “takeaways near me”, stop and think for a sec. What mood are you in?

• Want something cosy and sweet? Go for a Korma.
   
• Craving something classic with a bit of heat? Madras all the way.
   
• Ready to sweat a little? Vindaloo’s calling.
   

And don’t forget your sides, naan, pilau rice, poppadoms… they make everything better.

Ordering from a local Indian takeaway? Check if they’ve won a restaurant award, or at least have good reviews. Want more curry options? Here are some lighter Indian takeaway dishes that still hit the spot.

FAQ – Curry Talk

1. What’s the mildest curry to order if I don’t like spice?
Definitely Korma. It’s creamy, sweet and mild, making it perfect for people new to spice.

2. Is Vindaloo really that spicy?
Yes, it is among the hottest ones. If you like your food fiery, you’ll love it. If not, maybe stick to Madras.

3. Can I get these curries vegetarian?
Absolutely. Most takeaways offer chicken, lamb, or veggie versions of all three. Just ask when you order.

Final Word

So now you’ve got the lowdown. Korma is creamy comfort, Madras brings the heat with balance, and Vindaloo is for the brave. So when you are next exploring Indian takeaways near me, you know exactly which items will be best for you.

So you can look forward to a fantastic curry night, whether you plan on just chilling on the sofa, ordering in with friends, or just giving yourself a treat.