Indian food is much loved around the globe and is a popular choice for those looking for a little taste of India while out and about. It’s also a great option for family takeaway nights. But why is Indian cuisine so widely adored? Let’s take a look at the most compelling reasons.
Diverse and Rich Flavours
When you look at an Indian house authentic cuisine menu, you’ll see that the food is certainly not bland. Most of the dishes contain a complex spice blend, with each spice bringing something unique to the overall flavour profile. Widely used spices in Indian cuisine include cumin, coriander, turmeric, cardamon and garam masala. You’ll also find dishes loaded with fresh chillies, ginger and garlic. Many Indian families and restaurants have their own garam masala spice blends which gives their food a unique, aromatic flavour.
Indian food also balances sweet, sour, salty, bitter and spicy tastes carefully in a single dish. This balance creates a mesmerising and satisfying flavour profile that is both complex and harmonious. The depth of flavour found in Indian food is hard to replicate in other food types.
Regional Diversity
India is a huge country. This means that each region has its own style of cooking, which in turn makes Indian food even more exciting. From the rich and creamy dishes of North India like butter chicken and biryani to the lighter, coconut-based curries of South India, such as sambar and dosa, Indian food varies considerably.
Cultural and religious beliefs across India have also led to the creation of many different plant-based dishes that are suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. Add these to the meat-based options on the menu and there really is something for everyone.
Cooking Techniques
The complex flavours of Indian food come from the ingredients and spice mixes. But the various cooking techniques used also give each dish a unique taste. From slow cooking in a tandoor (clay oven) to frying, steaming and sautéing, each technique brings out different flavour profiles and adds texture. Many of these cooking techniques have also been passed down through generations and are an integral part of Indian cooking.
Health Benefits
Indian food is also one of the most standout cuisines across the world thanks to its health benefits. Many of the ingredients used in Indian cooking are well known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and digestive properties including turmeric, ginger, garlic and fenugreek. Therefore the spice mix of many dishes is like a natural medicine for the body.
While many people believe Indian food to be fattening because of the use of ghee and other fats, it can be lighter if you stay away from the creamier dishes. Also, look for meals that contain grains, legumes, vegetables and dairy for a nutritionally balanced dinner. Dishes such as dal (lentils), raita (yoghurt) and sabzi (vegetable stir-fry) are loaded with proteins, vitamins and minerals.
If you want to enjoy a taste of India in London, come to Little India in South Kensington. Just a stone’s throw from some of the city’s biggest attractions including the Science Museum and Kensington Palace, our restaurant is a great place to enjoy authentic Indian cuisine.
