India covers about 3.29 million square kilometres, making it the seventh largest country in the world by land area. With that in mind, it’s easy to imagine how diverse Indian curries are in each part of the country. A host of different ingredients, cooking styles and techniques define the cuisine of various regions, and there are significant differences between the north and south of the sub-continent. Here, we explore how dishes are shaped by geography – and which are the best to try.
North Indian Curries: Rich, Creamy and Comforting
North Indian curries are what many people picture when they think of ‘classic Indian food’. These dishes tend to be rich, creamy and comforting with an indulgent feel and a mild to medium spice level. They tend to contain dairy-rich bases such as cream, yoghurt, butter or ghee and are spiced with warming blends such as garam masala, cumin, coriander and cardamom.
Examples of popular North Indian curries include Butter Chicken, Rogan Josh, Paneer Tikka Masala and Korma. They’re highly recognisable dishes and when searching for ‘best Indian near me,’ you’d probably expect them to be on the menu. These curries also pair really well with side dishes like naan bread, roti or basmati rice.
South Indian Curries: Fiery, Tangy and Coconut-Rich
South Indian curries are completely different in terms of flavour and spice levels. They tend to be unapologetically spicy with bold flavours created by tangy tomatoes and tamarind. They often contain coconut milk and fresh curry leaves with an aromatic tempering of mustard seeds, chilli and lentils. Intensely spiced and fiery dishes from the South include Chettinad Chicken and Sambar made with lentils. Fish curries and milder vegetable curries with coconut sauces are also popular.
South Indian curries are typically served with steamed rice and there’s a geographical reason for this. South India’s climate is ideal for rice cultivation thanks to warm temperatures, heavy monsoon rains and fertile river deltas. Because of this, steamed rice is a staple in the South. In contrast, North India’s drier climate favours wheat production, which is why rotis, naans and parathas dominate there.
The steamed rice of dishes in South India also helps to bring down the heat of spicy main meals. These also tend to be thinner and more broth-like than those served in the North which are thicker and more hearty.
What Curries to Try?
When looking for ‘best rated Indian food near me’ what curries should you try? Well, this all depends on your personal preferences. If you love creamy, mellow favourites then classics such as Butter Chicken or Chicken Korma could be great choices. If you like something with a tangier, spicier flavour profile then dishes like Chicken or Prawn Madras are likely to satisfy your palate.
If you’re in Kensington and looking for the ‘best Indian places near me’, head to Little India for an authentic menu that offers dishes from across the nation. Whether you prefer the spice of the south or the heartier dishes of the north, you’ll find something to make your mouth water. Reserve your table today.
