An Indian Curry House is a restaurant that primarily serves South Asian cuisine, with a particular emphasis on dishes that incorporate curry, a spicy Asian-derived dish. These establishments are prevalent in the UK, Australia, and Europe, and their menus are heavily influenced by the wider South Asian cuisine, and occasionally, cuisines from further afield, such as Persian dishes. The concept of the Indian curry house dates back to the early 19th century, with the first one being opened in London in 1810 by Sake Dean Mahomed, a native of the Bengal Presidency. The food served in these establishments was initially South Asian cuisine adapted to suit British tastes, a culinary style that later came to be known as Anglo-Indian cuisine.
Origin and history of the Indian curry house
The Indian curry house traces its roots back to the Indian subcontinent, where curry, a sauce seasoned with a variety of spices, is a staple food. The term “curry” is an anglicized version of the Tamil word “kaṟi”, which translates to “sauce” or “relish for rice”. The selection of spices for each dish in traditional Indian cuisine is influenced by regional cultural traditions and personal preferences. The British introduced curry to English cuisine through Anglo-Indian cooking in the 17th century. The first instance of curry being served in Britain was in coffee houses from 1809. The curry house industry in Britain was established by emigrants from the Sylhet district of Bangladesh. The curry dishes served in these establishments are influenced by regional variations in India, with different types of vegetables, lentils, or meats used in the curry, and the style of preparation varying by region.
Unique characteristics of Indian Curry Houses
Size
Indian curry houses are typically smaller in size compared to other restaurant types such as fast food chains or fine dining establishments. This is primarily due to their business model, which focuses on providing a more intimate, authentic dining experience. They are usually designed to accommodate between 20 to 50 patrons at a time, with some larger establishments able to cater to up to 100 guests.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere in an Indian curry house is distinctively different from other types of restaurants due to its cultural elements. The interior design often reflects Indian aesthetics, with vibrant colors, traditional Indian art, and sometimes even Bollywood music playing in the background, creating a lively and warm ambiance.
Menu
Indian curry house, as the name suggests, specializes in Indian cuisine, with a particular focus on various types of curries. The menu typically includes a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, reflecting India's diverse culinary traditions. Key ingredients often include rice, lentils, and a variety of spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander.
Service
The service style in an Indian curry house is typically more informal and family-oriented, reflecting the Indian culture's emphasis on hospitality and community. The staff is knowledgeable about the complex flavors and ingredients in Indian cuisine and can guide customers through the menu, explaining the different types of curries, breads, and other dishes.
Alcohol
Indian curry houses typically serve a variety of Indian beers and spirits, such as Kingfisher beer and Indian whisky, which are designed to complement the spicy flavors of Indian cuisine. They also offer traditional Indian beverages like lassi, a yogurt-based drink that can be served non-alcoholic or with added spirits.
What items are typically on an Indian Curry House’s menu?
Starters
Items like Samosa ($3.92 ~ $8.95), Pakora ($5.99 ~ $9.99), Onion Bhaji ($5.95 ~ $8.50), Chicken Tikka ($12.96 ~ $20.00), and Lamb Kebab ($11.96 ~ $25.40) are common starters in an Indian curry house.
Main Courses
Main courses typically include Chicken Tikka Masala ($14.07 ~ $19.99), Lamb Rogan Josh ($16.94 ~ $22.99), Vegetable Biryani ($13.55 ~ $22.93), Prawn Curry ($15.95 ~ $20.95), and Beef Vindaloo ($14.96 ~ $21.08).
Side Dishes
Side dishes often include Naan Bread ($2.00 ~ $4.51), Pilau Rice ($3.99 ~ $10.95), Saag Aloo ($12.96 ~ $17.02), Tarka Dal ($11.00 ~ $15.99), and Bombay Potatoes (estimated from Curry Potato: $4.50 ~ $12.00).
Desserts
Desserts like Gulab Jamun ($3.99 ~ $6.99), Kheer ($3.99 ~ $7.28), Rasmalai ($4.62 ~ $7.72), Mango Lassi ($4.01 ~ $8.02), and Kulfi ($3.95 ~ $6.99) are typically found on the menu.
Drinks
Drinks often include Mango Lassi ($4.01 ~ $8.02), Masala Chai ($2.49 ~ $4.70), Kingfisher Beer (estimated from Beer: $4.00 ~ $8.03), Cobra Beer (estimated from Beer: $4.00 ~ $8.03), and Lime Soda ($3.25 ~ $6.99).
Are Indian curry houses popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner?
Yes, Indian curry house is a popular choice for all meals of the day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For breakfast, many people enjoy dishes like Aloo Paratha or Idli Sambar, which are hearty and flavorful. Lunch often includes a variety of curries, biryanis, and tandoori dishes, which are satisfying and delicious. Dinner at an Indian curry house can be a grand affair with a multitude of dishes to choose from, including various types of naan, curries, and desserts. The rich flavors and diverse menu options make Indian curry house a favorite for many, regardless of the time of day.
Are Indian curry houses popular for food delivery?
Yes, Indian curry house is indeed popular for food delivery. The restaurant offers a wide variety of Indian dishes that are rich in flavor and spices, making it a favorite among food lovers. Their menu includes a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, catering to diverse dietary preferences. The convenience of having these delicious meals delivered right to your doorstep makes Indian curry house a preferred choice for many.
What are the most popular Indian curry house chains?
Some of the most popular restaurant chains in India that serve Indian curry include Hotel Saravana Bhavan, Haldiram's, Adyar Anandha Bhavan, Parsa's, Bikanervala, Dindigul Thalappakatti Restaurant, and Darshini. However, the specific availability of Indian curry on their menus may vary.
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