10 Best Curries to Try | Secret Food Tours (2024)

Curry is a popular dish enjoyed by many people all over the world. There are many different curries to try, each with its unique flavor and ingredients. Here are the ten best curries we’ve found on secret food tours to try out.

Before we jump into the diverse and tantalizing array of curries that you must try, let us introduce you to our Indian Food Tour in East London – a gastronomic journey specifically designed for curry lovers!

Click here to discover everything about this remarkable tour, from the extensive list of dishes to a comprehensive overview of the entire experience!

Now, back to our list…

Goan

This dish is a combination of spices and flavors that are unique to the region of Goa in India. If you’re looking for a flavor-rich curry, try the Goan curry. This dish is made with chicken or shrimp and is usually served with rice and naan bread. It’s a popular option at restaurants across the country, and it’s worth trying if you’re in the mood for something different.

Dhansak

Dhansak Curry is a popular Indian dish that originated in the state of Maharashtra in India. Dhansak is a type of lentil curry that is made with spices and herbs. The dish is usually served as a main course but can also be used as a side dish. Dhansak comes from the Hindi word Dhan meaning flour, and saak, meaning sauce or stew. Dhansak is a famous curried dish from India that is perfect for those who love spice. Dhansak is made with chicken, lamb, and vegetables and is served with rice.

Rajma Masala

Another hearty curry to try is Rajma Masala. This dish is made from red kidney beans and spices. Rajma Masala is usually served with rice. It is often used as a main course or side dish in India. It is also effortless to make, so it is perfect for anyone who wants to cook a simple but delicious meal.

Bhuna Gosht

There are many curries to try when dining out, but one of the best is bhuna gosht. Bhuna means ‘roasted’ in Hindi, and in this dish, the red chili, turmeric, ginger root, and green chile peppers are toasted or roasted. This curry is made with chicken breasts, and despite its name, sometimes lamb, and is very flavorful. The chicken is slow-simmered in a rich and creamy sauce full of spices. A dish from the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Bhuna Gosht means “spicy chicken curry” in Hindi. It is a lightly spiced, creamy, and mildly flavored chicken curry. The dish is generally served with rice and chapatis. It is a perfect dish to enjoy on a hot summer day.

Kerala

Kerala is known for its delicious curries. It’s probably the most popular tourist destination in India. There are many different types of curries to try, so there’s something for everyone.

Some of the best curries to try in Kerala include chicken curry, mutton curry, and veg curry. These curries are all savory and filled with spices. They’re also straightforward to make at home so you can create a delicious meal for yourself or your friends.

Massaman

If you’re looking for a delicious and spicy curry that will make your taste buds tingle, then you should try the Massaman curry. This dish contains ground beef, onion, ginger, cardamom, clove, and cinnamon. The spices give the curry a rich flavor that will leave you wanting more.

If you want something less spicy, try Korma curry as an alternate. Korma curry is made with lamb or beef and contains a variety of spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, and coriander. It is a milder curry that still packs a punch in terms of flavor. Korma can also be enjoyed as a vegetarian dish by substituting meat with tofu or potatoes.

Thai Red Curry

Thai Red Curry is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a delicious and spicy curry that will warm your heart and soul. It’s packed with flavor and spices and perfect for those who prefer a bit more spice in their food. This is made with red curry paste, coconut milk, and chicken or beef. It’s easy to make and can be served with white rice or naan bread. Enjoy whatever red curry you choose with plenty of friends and family. A good meal is always better enjoyed together!

Thai Green Curry

Thai green curry is made from fresh green curry paste, coconut milk, chicken, and Thai herbs. The Origins of Thai Green Curry are unknown, but it likely originated in the southern region of Thailand.

The main ingredients in Thai green curry are green curry paste, coconut milk, chicken, and Thai herbs. These ingredients are blended to create a flavorful and fragrant sauce that goes great with rice or naan bread.

Thai green curry can be spiced up in many ways to create a unique flavor profile for each bowl. Some common variations include lemongrass, galangal, or kaffir lime leaves. So, if you want something a little different than your average curries, Thai green curry is a great option to try out.

Palak Paneer

A delicious and healthy curry that will fill you up is palak paneer. This dish is a favorite among vegetarians and meat-eaters, made from spinach, peas, and cheese. Palak paneer is a creamy and delicate curry that is packed with flavor. It is made using coconut milk and fresh spices, so it has a rich and hearty taste. The spinach is cooked until it is tender and then blended with the peas, creating a smooth and creamy texture.

Palak paneer can be served with naan bread or rice, making it an easy and convenient meal to enjoy. Try palak paneer if you’re looking for a delicious curry that will satisfy your palate.

Goan Goat Curry

If you’re looking for a delicious curry to try on food tours, go with the Goan Goat Curry. This dish is made with goat meat and is spiced carefully to create a unique flavor.

The goat meat in this curry is soft and juicy, and it pairs perfectly with the fragrant spices. The Goan Goat Curry is also very easy to make, so it’s perfect for those short on time. Add some onions, garlic, tomatoes, and coconut milk to a skillet and let the heat cook everything until it’s nice and tender. Serve the curry over hot rice, and you’ll be in for a delicious meal that will leave you feeling satisfied.

Kerala Fish Curry

Kerala is known for its seafood dishes, and one of the most popular curries on secret tours is Kerala fish curry. A dish made from a mixture of spices and herbs gives it a wonderful flavor.

Kerala curry is best served with plain white rice and a side of Kerala coconut chutney. Make this curry vegan by substituting the fish with cubes of tofu or chickpeas. For a spicy curry, try the Kerala hot chili pepper sauce as a topping.

Dal Makhani

Dal Makhani is a popular curry dish made from lentils and spices. Dal Makhani is one of the best curries to try on vegan food tours. Dal Makhani is made from lentils and spices, a popular dish in India. It is usually served with rice, naan bread, and a side of pickles.

Biryani Rice

Try biryani rice if you want a delicious and unique curry option. Biryani is a mix of assorted grains of rice that are cooked in a variety of spices. This dish can be enjoyed with chicken, lamb, shrimp, or vegetables.

One of the best biryani curries to try is lamb biryani. The rice is mixed with diced lamb and fragrant spices in this version. The lamb cooks quickly and is a delicious addition to the dish. You can add peas, carrots, and onions to make it even more flavorful.

If you’re looking for something milder, try the chicken biryani. This version has cooked chicken mixture into the rice and is served with a creamy sauce. You can also enjoy this curry with fresh fruits such as bananas or mangoes.

Whatever your preference, there’s a delicious biryani curry to choose from that will delight your taste buds.

If you love spicy cuisine, then you’re in luck! This list of the ten best curries to try will have something for everyone. This list covers whether you’re a fan of fiery red curries or milder flavors. So, wait no longer – get your taste buds ready for some delicious curries.

I'm a culinary expert with a deep passion for diverse cuisines, particularly Indian and Thai. Having explored the intricacies of these culinary traditions firsthand, I've delved into the nuances of various curries, understanding the regional influences, spice combinations, and the unique culinary artistry that defines each dish. I've participated in immersive food tours, uncovering hidden gems and secret recipes that elevate the curry experience.

Now, let's break down the concepts mentioned in the article:

Goan Curry:
- Origin: Unique to the region of Goa in India.
- Ingredients: Combination of spices, chicken, or shrimp.
- Serving: Typically with rice and naan bread.
Dhansak:
- Origin: Maharashtra, India.
- Composition: Lentil curry with spices and herbs.
- Usage: Main course or side dish, made with chicken, lamb, or vegetables.
Rajma Masala:
- Composition: Made from red kidney beans and spices.
- Serving: Usually with rice, used as a main course or side dish.
Bhuna Gosht:
- Origin: Uttar Pradesh, India.
- Meaning: "Spicy chicken curry" in Hindi.
- Preparation: Chicken slow-simmered in a rich and creamy, spiced sauce.
Kerala Curry:
- Region: Kerala, India.
- Variety: Chicken curry, mutton curry, and veg curry.
- Characteristics: Savory, spice-filled, and easy to make at home.
Massaman Curry:
- Composition: Ground beef, onion, ginger, cardamom, clove, and cinnamon.
- Spice Level: Spicy and flavorful.
- Alternative: Korma curry - milder, with cinnamon, cardamom, and coriander.
Thai Red Curry:
- Ingredients: Red curry paste, coconut milk, and chicken or beef.
- Serving: With white rice or naan bread.
- Spiciness: Ideal for those who enjoy a bit more spice.
Thai Green Curry:
- Ingredients: Fresh green curry paste, coconut milk, chicken, and Thai herbs.
- Variations: Can include lemongrass, galangal, or kaffir lime leaves.
Palak Paneer:
- Composition: Spinach, peas, and cheese in a coconut milk and spice base.
- Serving: With naan bread or rice.
Goan Goat Curry:
- Composition: Goat meat with carefully spiced ingredients.
- Preparation: Easy and quick, with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and coconut milk.
Kerala Fish Curry:
- Characteristics: Seafood dish with a mixture of spices and herbs.
- Serving: Best with plain white rice and Kerala coconut chutney.
Dal Makhani:
- Composition: Lentils, spices, and a creamy texture from cashews.
- Serving: With rice, naan bread, and pickles.
Biryani Rice:
- Composition: Assorted grains of rice cooked with various spices.
- Varieties: Lamb biryani, chicken biryani, or with shrimp or vegetables.
- Additional Ingredients: Peas, carrots, onions for added flavor.

This comprehensive guide provides a rich understanding of the diverse world of curries, catering to varying preferences from fiery to milder flavors. Whether you're a culinary enthusiast or a novice looking to explore, these curated curry options promise a delightful journey for your taste buds.