Bollywood cooking

If the thought of bowls overflowing with Indian spices and the heady aroma of incense makes you swoon the way it does me, then pull up a chair, because I've got a round-up of Indian food that is sure to get your mouth watering. Got your cumin seeds and garam masala ready? Then  off we go.



Butter Chicken

Our first stop is one of the classics, and a firm favourite of most who've tried it. Butter Chicken is probably the least intimidating of all the curries and is therefore a great introduction dish for those whose palates aren't quite as adventurous (yet). Named for the velvet-y sauce coating the chicken, rather than an actual abundance of butter, this is sure to rake in the compliments.






Indian Pork with Lime Pickles
If you're in the mood for something a tad lighter, look no further than this zesty, refreshing dish of pork cubes cooked with lime pickles. Quick to make, I can guarantee that it will disappear just as quickly, so best to whip up two batches. 












Chicken Lababdar
Perhaps your tastes lean more towards the creamy and dreamy? This chicken curry is my friend N's favourite Indian dish and it's easy to see why - tender cubes of chicken coated in a buttery, creamy tomato sauce reminiscent of Butter Chicken - what's not to love?












Aloo Phujia 
Taking a walk over to the vegetarian side, you'll have to look hard to find a dish that screams "comfort food" louder than this one. Gingery-spicy potatoes pairs up with peas to deliver a generous helping of carby goodness. So you have no excuse not to run that next marathon. Wait, wha...? 










Baigan Ka Bharta (Aubergine curry)
With summer just peeking it's lovely bright head around the corner, this is the perfect light curry to showcase the new season's glut of tomatoes and aubergines. Hands-on time is minimal, leaving you free to soak up the rays or perhaps take a dip in the pool. You can't  say I don't look out for you...

Indian style Carrot Soup
Perhaps you're in the Northern hemisphere and summer is but a distant (albeit wonderful) memory. Fear not, because this Indian inspired carrot soup is just the thing to chase those winter blues away. Although by no means authentically Indian, it does give a firm nod to the land of spices with it's usage of coriander, cumin and fennel seeds. Definitely a belly-warmer this one!







Channa Masala
Looking for something a bit more suitable as main entree for your vegetarian guests? This channa masala elevates the humble chickpea (a great source of vegetarian protein by the way) to new heights, smothering it a spiced tomato sauce that you won't be able to get enough of. Bonus points? It is one of the cheapest meals out - and no-one will ever guess it! 






Paneer  
Up for some adventure in the kitchen? Making your own cheese is not nearly as scary or complicated as it sounds, but believe me, the kick you'll get out of telling people that "yes, I made my own cheese" is something money can't buy. Would also work great for bribes, to curry favour or other payback-type situations.






Mumbai Hot Chocolate

If it's something sweeter you're after, then you & I obviously have a lot in common. A day isn't complete without chocolate right? So, to ensure that your chocolate needs are matched with your desire for Indian spices, I bring you this deliciously thick chocolate drink, laced with cardamom and chillies. You can thank me later, although unfortunately I am unable to take responsibility for the lack of self-control that this chocolate delight is sure to cause.




For more Indian recipes, be sure to check out my Recipe Index by Country, where you are sure to find some gems.