7 Must-Try North Indian Curries: A Culinary Odyssey

North Indian cuisine stands as a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage, with its curries serving as some of the crown jewels of this gastronomic tradition. These dishes are not mere meals; they are symphonies of flavour, each spice a note in a complex culinary composition. Let us embark on a journey through seven exceptional curries, each a masterpiece in its own right.

1. Butter Chicken: The Velvety Virtuoso

Butter Chicken transcends the realm of mere food; it is a culinary experience that tantalizes all senses. Tender morsels of charred chicken tikka, bathed in a luscious tomato-based sauce, dance on the palate with the aromatic embrace of coriander, cardamom and cloves, and a kiss of garam masala. The addition of butter and cream elevates this dish to a crescendo of indulgence, creating a velvety symphony that lingers long after the last bite. Paired with pillowy naan or fragrant basmati rice, Butter Chicken is not just a meal, but a celebration of flavour.

2. Shahi Chicken Masala: A Regal Rhapsody

Shahi Chicken Masala is the embodiment of North Indian opulence on a plate. This dish doesn't merely satisfy hunger; it transports the diner to the grand courts of ancient Indian royalty. The tender chicken, enrobed in a sauce of unparalleled richness, carries whispers of cardamom, black cumin and fenugreek in every bite. The creamy texture is a testament to the skill of balancing robust spices with mellow dairy, creating a dish that is simultaneously bold and refined. Each mouthful is a journey through a kaleidoscope of flavours, a true masterpiece of Indian gastronomy.

3. Kashmiri Rogan Josh: A Himalayan Harmony

Rogan Josh, born in the breathtaking valleys of Kashmir, is a curry that captures the essence of its homeland. This dish is not just cooked; it's crafted with patience and precision. Succulent lamb, slow-cooked to perfection, absorbs a complex medley of spices and yoghurt, culminating in a gravy of extraordinary depth. The finishing touch of garam masala adds layers of warmth and complexity. Rogan Josh is more than a meal; it's an expedition for the senses, offering comfort and excitement in equal measure.

4. Mughlai Keema Masala: An Imperial Legacy

Mughlai Keema Masala is not just a curry; it's a living piece of culinary history. This masterpiece, born in the kitchens of the Mughal Empire, has evolved over centuries, adapting to regional tastes while maintaining its regal essence. The minced meat, be it traditional mutton, lamb or modern alternatives such as soy mince, is transformed into a canvas for a bold tapestry of flavours. The rich, tomato-based gravy, infused with aromatic spices, creates a dish that is both familiar and exotic. Paired with hot naan or flaky paratha, Keema Masala offers a dining experience fit for emperors.

5. Amritsari Chana Masala: A Punjabi Percussion

Amritsari Chana Masala is a vibrant celebration of flavour, echoing the lively spirit of its namesake city. This dish is a masterful orchestration of tastes - sweet, sour, and spicy notes harmonizing in perfect balance. Chickpeas, humble in origin, are elevated to gourmet status through their immersion in a rich, spice-laden gravy. The tangy touch of tamarind provides a counterpoint to the warmth of cumin and coriander, creating a dish that is both comforting and invigorating. Each spoonful of Amritsari Chana Masala is a journey through the bustling streets of Punjab.

6. Dal Palak: The Everyday Epicure

Dal Palak may not boast the richness of its more indulgent cousins, but its elegance lies in its simplicity and nourishing qualities. This verdant curry, a marriage of lentils and fresh spinach, is a testament to the Indian culinary philosophy of balancing taste with health. The subtle heat of garlic and ginger elevates the earthy flavours of the lentils and spinach, creating a dish that is both satisfying and virtuous. Dal Palak is not just a meal; it's a daily ritual, a comforting embrace at the end of a long day.

7. Paneer Makhani: The Vegetarian Virtuoso

Paneer Makhani stands as proof that vegetarian cuisine can be just as luxurious and satisfying as its meat-based counterparts. This dish shares its rich, creamy tomato-based sauce with the renowned Butter Chicken, but replaces chicken with generous cubes of paneer. The result is a curry that is at once familiar and unique. The paneer, with its mild flavour and firm texture, provides the perfect canvas for the aromatic spices to shine. Paneer Makhani is not just a vegetarian alternative; it's a culinary star in its own right, capable of satisfying and delighting even the most dedicated carnivores.

An Unparalleled Gastronomic Adventure

Above are seven gems of North Indian culinary artistry. Each dish is a carefully composed symphony of flavours, textures, and aromas, showcasing the depth and complexity of this revered cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned epicure or a curious novice, these curries offer an unparalleled gastronomic adventure. Prepare your palate for a journey through the rich tapestry of North Indian flavours - an experience that will linger in your memory long after the last morsel has been savoured.

THE ABOVE CURRIES CAN BE MADE WITH CONSUMMATE EASE AT HOME USING MRS BALBIR SINGH'S AWARD-WINNING BLENDS AVAILABLE INDIVIDUALLY OR AS A PART OF THE 6-PACK: ULTIMATE NORTH INDIAN CURRY COLLECTION.

PLEASE NOTE: TO MAKE THE BUTTER CHICKEN OR PANEER MAKHANI YOU WILL NEED THIS BLEND WHICH IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE 6-PACK, BUT WHICH IS A PART OF OUR 9-PACK: CURRY CONNOISSEUR COLLECTION. 

Mrs Balbir Singh 
Award-winning godmother of Indian home cooking, and author of Mrs Balbir Singh's Indian Cookery, as featured in "The Best Indian Cookbooks Ever, as Judged by the Experts" - The Telegraph (UK)