Craving Indian food? You’re likely thinking of dishes rich with “masala” — aromatic spice blends that define the cuisine. Masala restaurants are popping up everywhere, offering everything from traditional favorites to exciting fusion dishes.
Traditional Masala Cuisine
Masala dishes vary from region to region, with North Indian masala dishes tending toward rich gravies, dairy ingredients, and foods cooked in a tandoor, or clay oven. South Indian masala dishes often feature coconut, lentils, and rice.
Two key masala dishes are:
- Masala dosa: A thin crepe made from fermented batter and filled with spiced potatoes.
- Chicken tikka masala: Marinated chicken served in a creamy tomato sauce.
Fusion and modern interpretations
Here are some of the ways that masala restaurants are reimagining and reinventing Indian cuisine:
- Globally influenced masala. This might mean Indian cuisine with elements of Chinese, Mexican, or other global cuisines.
- Indian and Southern cuisine. Some restaurants are taking a unique approach, fusing Indian and Southern culinary traditions. For example, Chauhan Ale & Masala House in Nashville, Tennessee, highlights the culinary scene of Mumbai and New Delhi, but with a Southern twist.
- Creative Indian cuisine. With her creative approach, co-owner and Executive Chef Maneet Chauhan brings new ideas to traditional Indian dishes.
How to find a great masala restaurant
Looking for a fantastic masala restaurant? Try these tips:
- Online Search: Search “masala restaurant” or “Indian restaurant” and read reviews.
- Location: Refine your search. For example, search for “masala restaurant Houston, Texas.”
- Dietary Needs: Look for vegetarian-friendly restaurants.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cuisine is masala?
Masala isn’t a cuisine in itself, but rather a component of many cuisines, most notably Indian cuisine. The term “masala” simply refers to a blend of spices, which can then be used to flavor a variety of dishes. So, you might find masala used in everything from curries to lentil dishes to vegetable preparations.
What is a masala?
A masala is a blend of spices, either ground into a powder or made into a paste. The specific spices used vary widely depending on the region and the dish. Common ingredients include cumin, coriander, turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and chili peppers. Some masalas are quite mild, while others are intensely spicy.
What restaurants are owned by Maneet Chauhan?
Maneet Chauhan, a renowned Indian chef and television personality, owns several popular restaurants. She is the head chef of Chauhan Ale & Masala House in Nashville, Tennessee, as well as The Mockingbird, and Tansuo. These establishments showcase her innovative approach to Indian cuisine.
What are those little seeds at Indian restaurants?
Those little seeds you often see offered at the end of a meal at Indian restaurants are typically mukhwas, a colorful mix of seeds and spices. They are meant to be a breath freshener and digestive aid. The most common ingredient is fennel seed, which has a licorice-like flavor, and they are often sugar-coated.
Summary
Masala restaurants offer something for everyone, from traditional regional favorites to exciting fusion dishes. We encourage you to get out there and explore the wide world of masala cuisine!