If you’re a fan of Indian food, you’ve probably searched ‘best Indian near me’ in cities across the UK. Perhaps you consider yourself something of a connoisseur and have sampled everything from the British-born Tikka Masala to the fiery Vindaloo. India’s flavours are as rich and diverse as its people, and if you love the cuisine, there are some curries that you should try at least once in your lifetime. We’ve listed them here, so that next time you’re looking for the ‘best Indian places near me’ you can choose a dish you may not have tried.
1. King prawn bhuna
Originating in Bengal, where the ‘bhunna’ cooking method has been around for centuries, bhuna has become a beloved dish here in the UK. Its thick, tomato-based sauce is intensely flavoured and boldly spiced, creating a zingy, vibrant dish. King prawns are the perfect companion, adding succulent complexity.
2. Jeera chicken
This earthy curry is flavoured with cumin seeds, which give it a warm and aromatic flavour. Originating from northern India, it is mildly spiced, making it perfect for those who typically opt for dishes such as korma or pasanda.
3. Chicken dupiaza
A rich curry with a prominent sweet and savoury flavour, dupiaza uses onions cooked in two ways. It has a medium heat and great depth of flavour, making it popular among curry lovers in the UK.
4. Sylhet fish curry
Light and fragrant, this dish comes from the Sylhet region of Bangladesh and elevates white fish with subtle, aromatic spices such as garlic, green chillies and mustard oil. You won’t find it on every Indian restaurant menu, so true connoisseurs will enjoy sampling it.
5. Chana mossala
This vegetarian dish from the north of India features chick peas cooked in butter and traditional spices. It’s a true comfort food, pairing beautifully with a side of naan.
6. Rogan Josh
A medium-spiced Kashmiri curry known for its deep red flavour, rogan josh is traditionally made with lamb or mutton slow cooked in a blend of aromatic spices and red chillies. It’s a winner for curry enthusiasts who appreciate depth of flavour.
7. Meat dhansak
With its sweet, sour and hot flavour profile, dhansak originated in the Parsi community and consists of mutton cooked in a lentil sauce. It’s a hearty option with a noticeable tang thanks to the inclusion of tamarind.
8. Dall Makhani
Popular across India, this dish is made with slow-cooked black lentils and kidney beans, prepared with butter, cream and spices such as cumin and garam masala. A must-try for any Indian cuisine fan!
9. Naga chicken
Intensely hot, this dish from the northeastern regions of India and Bangladesh is made with Naga chillies. This curry is not for those with a delicate palate, but if you love vindaloo, this is a step up in the heat stakes.
10. Sag prawn
Combining succulent fresh-water prawns with spinach and onions, this dish draws on Bengali and Goan cuisine, where seafood is popular. With a mild to medium heat, it’s flavourful and fresh – and one you should try at least once.
If you’re looking for the ‘best Indian curry near me’, why not reserve a table at Little India? Our menu will introduce you to authentic Indian cuisine from across the region, helping you to find new favourites.
