If you think it’s too hot to enjoy the warm spices and mouth-watering flavours of a curry, think again. India has a predominantly hot climate, with temperatures often getting into the 30s, so many of its most popular dishes can be enjoyed in summer as well as winter. When the mercury rises, here’s how to satisfy your tastebuds and experience a little taste of India.
1. Go for Summer Friendly Options
Indian food is so diverse that you can switch the typical British favourites that tend to have lots of sauce – such as korma, tikka mossala and rogan josh – with drier options that feel lighter. Great summer-friendly options include chicken tandoori, meat or vegetable samosas and lamb tikka. Dishes like these can be enjoyed with lighter sides such as chapati and a cooling array of sauces, like mixed raitha and mango chutney, or even an onion salad to keep things light but tasty.
2. Explore the Seafood Selection
Seafood is also perfect for a summer sizzler. From grilled salmon, beautifully cooked in the Tandoori to Sylhet fish curry, you won’t be short of choice. Pair seafood with rice or eat it with dips and bread alongside a vegetable dish such as sag or brinjal bhajee. A range of picky starters such as pan fried prawns on fried bread or succulent fried king prawns, butterfly style, is a great option too.
3. Opt for Light Coconut Broth Curries
When the sun is shining brightly and you’re looking to stay cool but don’t want to miss out on all the brilliant flavours a curry offers, then why not simply opt for a thinner, fragrant curry instead of a heavy, creamy one? Anything with lemongrass, lime or coriander maintains that fresh summer vibe you need on a hot day and can be served with jasmine rice or naan bread. If you’re not sure what to order, then don’t be afraid to ask. The staff at our Indian on Gloucester Road will be happy to help you choose the perfect dish for a summer day.
4. Choose Cooling Drinks
An Indian dish on a hot day is perfectly complemented by a cold drink. If you fancy something alcoholic, a refreshing Indian beer, such as a Kingfisher, could do the trick. Or you might want to go for something non-alcoholic like a Mango Lasso. This cold, creamy, fruity drink is not only delicious but pairs well with spicy food, helping to keep you as cool as possible.
5. Eat Later in the Day
If you don’t have much of an appetite on a warm day, then try to eat later when it’s cooler. Once the sun begins to set, you might find your appetite comes back and you fancy eating something a little more substantial. Gloucester Road Indian restaurants like Little India open until 10.30pm and also have a takeaway service so you can eat when you feel hungry.
If you’re looking for authentic Indian food in Kensington this summer, head to Little India for an array of dishes cooked expertly with the freshest ingredients.
