Valentine’s Day is all about love, connection, and making memories. Whether you’re spending the evening with a partner, best friend, family member, or even treating yourself, there’s nothing like setting the mood with a warm, comforting meal. In the UK, it’s no secret that Indian cuisine has won countless hearts.
From spice-infused curries to delicately aromatic biryanis and buttery naan bread, the flavours and textures of Indian cooking are perfect for a romantic night. If you want to celebrate with a memorable Valentine’s Day meal, an Indian takeaway from your favourite local restaurant could be just the ticket.
Why Choose Indian for Your Valentine’s Day Meal?
Indian cuisine offers a world of flavours that can transform an ordinary evening into something truly special. The bold spices, rich gravies, and fragrant rice dishes invite you to slow down, savour every bite, and truly engage your senses.
The diverse range of dishes available means there’s something for everyone: meat-lovers, vegetarians, vegans, and those who prefer milder flavours. Not to mention, Indian meals are perfect for sharing. After all, passing a bowl of Dal or dipping Naan together into a smooth Butter Chicken can create a feeling of closeness that makes the evening more intimate.
This Valentine’s Day, skip the crowded restaurants and plan a private dining experience at home. By ordering from a wide selection of Indian takeaways on ChefOnline, you can set the scene—candlelight, soft music, and a carefully curated menu—so you and your loved one can focus on each other uninterrupted.
Top Indian Dishes to Set the Mood
Chicken Tikka Masala
A British favourite, this creamy, mildly spicy dish features tender pieces of chicken marinated in yoghurt and spices, then cooked in a rich tomato and cream sauce. Its bold colour and comforting warmth make it a delightful centrepiece for your Valentine’s spread. Pair it with fluffy Pilau Rice or soft Naan Bread and a light salad for a balanced, indulgent meal.
Butter Chicken (Makhani)
Another star of the Indian culinary world, butter chicken is velvety smooth and oh-so-satisfying. Its gentle spices and rich, buttery sauce are perfect if you prefer subtlety overheating.
Try it with a fragrant Saffron Rice and perhaps a portion of Garlic Naan. Each bite will melt in your mouth, leaving you and your special someone smiling contentedly across the table.
Paneer Tikka
For a vegetarian, paneer tikka is a must-try. Cubes of Indian cottage cheese are marinated in spices, skewered with peppers and onions, and then grilled or baked to perfection. It’s a dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavourful.
Serve it as a starter or pair it with a mild lentil dish, like Dal Makhani, to round out a hearty and comforting vegetarian feast.
Prawn Bhuna
Seafood lovers, look no further. Prawn bhuna offers a thick, aromatic sauce made from onions, tomatoes, and a punchy blend of spices, coating juicy prawns that burst with flavour.
This dish works wonderfully alongside Lemon Rice or Paratha. It’s a perfect way to introduce a bit of heat and complexity into your Valentine’s menu.
Biryani
If you want to impress with a single dish, Biryani could be your secret weapon. This layered rice dish, available in options like chicken, lamb, vegetable, or paneer, is fragrant with saffron and cardamom, studded with nuts and raisins, and beautifully balanced.
Served with a cooling cucumber raita on the side, it becomes a one-pot feast that can be presented in a lovely serving dish, ready to be scooped onto plates by candlelight.
Chana Masala
For a lighter and healthier option, try Chana Masala (spiced chickpea curry). It is bright, tangy, and protein-packed, with notes of ginger, garlic, and cumin. This dish pairs splendidly with Roti and a side of fresh Cucumber Salad. It is ideal for keeping the evening a bit lighter, leaving room for a sweet treat afterwards.
Gulab Jamun
A romantic meal would only be complete with a dessert to share. Gulab jamun—soft, milk-based dumplings soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup—are a sweet staple of Indian cuisine. They’re wonderfully sticky, indulgent, and perfect for feeding each other a bite or two.
Alternatively, try a portion of creamy Mango Kulfi if you prefer something cold and refreshing.
Creating the Perfect Valentine’s Ambiance
It’s not just about the food, though. Turn your takeaway into a total Valentine’s Day experience:
Set the Scene
Dim the lights, light a few scented candles, and play some gentle background music. Turn off the TV and put your phones away. Permit yourselves to focus on the moment—on conversation, laughter, and small gestures of appreciation.
Presentation Matters
Transfer your takeaway dishes into attractive serving bowls and plates from their plastic containers. Garnish with fresh herbs, add a sprinkle of toasted nuts, or serve papadums and chutneys in small bowls on the side.
Your effort to present everything beautifully will make the evening feel much more special.
Pair with the Right Drink
A light, crisp White Wine, a chilled Lager, or even a fruity Mocktail can complement the rich flavours of your meal. Consider a Rose Lemonade or a fragrant Iced Tea if you want something non-alcoholic and playful.
Make This Valentine’s Day Memorable
This year, celebrate Valentine’s Day in a comforting and refined way. Skip the crowded restaurants, the frantic cooking, and the stress. Instead, set the mood at home with an unforgettable Indian feast.
With the help of ChefOnline, you’ll have everything you need to create a night full of flavour, aroma, and romance. Whichever dishes you choose, you’ll be treating yourselves to a meal that lingers in the memory—just like the best kind of love story.
