Tea Blog

British food is not just limited to fish and chips. Did you know that Indian food is also part of it?

It may be surprising, but India and Britain share a long history. During the British Raj (1858–1947), India was under British rule, and many British expatriates became familiar with the rich flavors and spices of Indian cuisine.

Since then, Indian food has had a lasting influence on British cooking and has become a mainstream favorite.

Take a look below at some modern ways to enjoy

Indian cuisine at home
.

Curry Powder – It all goes back to the Victorian era, when Brits living in India discovered the vibrant spice blends we now call curry.

They began using it to enhance simple dishes and leftovers, eventually creating classics like Mulligatawny soup. Today, curry is a staple in the UK, with curry houses and supermarket varieties everywhere.

You can use

curry powder blends
to create your own dishes, add flavor to vegetables, or enhance almost anything.

Sauces – Ready-made sauces make it easy to recreate Indian meals at home.

One popular option is

Sharwood’s Tikka Masala sauce
, made with creamy yogurt, coriander, and a blend of spices. Simply simmer with boneless chicken and serve with basmati rice, vegetables, and naan bread.

For something different, try

Patak’s Tandoori sauce
, which adds rich, aromatic flavor to meats or vegetables.

Chutney – A key part of many Indian meals, chutneys add bold flavor and variety.

Explore options like

traditional chutneys
, including mango, lime pickle, and Major Grey’s. These pair well with dishes such as samosas and curries.

Poppadums – Often overlooked in the U.S., poppadums are very popular in the UK.

Try

Sharwood’s plain poppadums
, made from chickpeas and quickly fried in hot oil. They puff up in just 2–3 seconds and should be light and crispy.

Serve them with

lime pickle
or alongside dishes like butter chicken or tikka masala.

Trivia Time!

• The name “Tandoori” comes from the traditional clay tandoor oven used in Northern India.
• Naan bread is traditionally baked in a tandoor oven.
• In 2001, chicken tikka masala was declared “a true British national dish.”
• Takeout food is commonly called “takeaway” in the UK.
• In 1910, Sake Dean Mahomed opened the first Indian restaurant in London.