Indian food is one of England's most widely beloved cuisines. India's influence in Great Britain dates back several hundred years and has played an integral role in shaping English food. Below, you'll learn more about why curries and other Indian classics are so popular in England. 

Reasons for Indian Influence 

In 1708, the British quickly established a presence in India, as the East India Company established a monopoly on trade. During the 19th century, Queen Victoria became Empress of India when Great Britain began the British Raj, which lasted from 1858 to 1947. During this period, Indian dishes gradually became British staples. Curry houses began to open throughout England, and recipes for curries started appearing in English cookbooks. 

Indian cuisine's rise in popularity contrasted with typical English foods, such as roasts and puddings. The British welcomed Indian food's spicy warmth and began adding leftover meats from their kitchens into flavorful curries.

Popular Indian Dishes In British Cuisine 

Besides traditional fish and chips, one of the most popular dishes in England is chicken tikka masala. It features hearty chunks of chicken in a creamy tomato sauce seasoned with ginger, turmeric, and garam masala. Curries can also be diverse, ranging from shrimp in creamy coconut-based sauces to lamb roasted in spicy tomato-based stews. 

Most pubs and restaurants serve these dishes over basmati rice, which is long-grained rice with a soft texture. Additionally, they typically include a side of naan, an oven-baked flatbread with an egg and yogurt base. You can use this addition to soak up the sweet and savory sauces on your plate.

The next time you're craving Indian cuisine, head to Mad Dogs and Englishmen. This restaurant provides Indian and English food, including chicken tikka masala, to hungry patrons throughout Tampa, FL. Call (813) 832-3037 to make a reservation, or visit their website to browse their menus.