There’s no denying that the UK loves Indian food. From curries to naan bread, you can’t walk into a supermarket without coming across a range of classic dishes. But when was the last time you pushed yourself out of your comfort zone and tried something new? If you love the taste of different Indian takeaway food, you probably have a default order that’s as familiar to you as the back of your hand. However, with this approach, there could be one treat you are missing out on…
Indian sweet desserts.
Why You Should Try Indian Desserts
One of the most unfortunate side-effects attributed to curries is the fact that once consumed, you typically feel extremely full.
Although this is great when you are having an evening meal, it normally means that your eating for the day is done.
However, if you can bear to leave a little room in your stomach, there are countless Indian desserts which will send you into raptures of pleasure.
Our Favourite Tasty and Authentic Indian Desserts
Should you be looking to sample some new pieces from your favourite Indian takeaway, ChefOnline is here to guide you through the very best Indian desserts near you.
Indian Dessert 1: Mysore Pak
When it comes to Indian sweets and desserts that have a history, it is hard to look past Mysore Pak as the prime example. Originating from Southern India, it is made predominantly of flour, sugar syrup, and ghee (a type of butter).
Why is this Indian Dessert So Good?
This is a tasty dish which will inevitably leave its mark on you. Served in small cubes, these little morsels (whilst perhaps not lasting particularly long) are something that you can savour bite-by-bite - and is beloved by many food fanatics.
Plus, if you don’t mind compromising on authenticity, Mysore Pak is easy to make at home. This way, you can cater to different allergies you or your loved ones have and make a vegan, gluten-free or dairy-free Indian dessert from scratch. Simply swap out an ingredient or two and you’ll have a fresh pudding ready in less than half an hour.
Indian Dessert 2: Payasam
Payasam is much like the classic British rice pudding, but there’s a lot more to this authentic Indian dessert than meets the eye. The composition of this dish is overwhelmingly simple, yet the flavour that it carries is not something that you will forget in a hurry.
Why is this Indian Dessert So Good?
When cooked to perfection, Payasam is an extremely smooth puree typically topped with ingredients like pistachios and almonds. The first mouthful that you have will be a mixture of crunch and creaminess. What could be better?
Within Indian culture, this dish is most commonly found served on special occasions, like birthdays. Therefore, this Indian dessert is a great option to order at an Indian restaurant when you are celebrating.
Go on. Treat yourself.
Indian Dessert 3: Boondi ka Laddo
Although this is a dessert that is associated most notably with some of the biggest celebrations in the Indian calendar, there is no reason why Boondi ka Laddo cannot act as the perfect way in which to conclude an ordinary dinner.
As an authentic Indian dessert with milk, this is the perfect treat for anyone who isn’t a fan of spice and would prefer something a little more agreeable.
Why is this Indian Dessert So Good?
Although you can find Boondi ka Laddo in a soft liquid form, it is most commonly served as a crispy ball - which comes courtesy of the cooked batter that is used.
Your first bite of this Indian dessert will consist of an almost-overwhelming sweetness, combined with a pleasant aroma. As you chew, you will be able to decipher the subtle notes of chickpeas and raisins that add to the overall experience.
Indian Dessert 4: Bebinca
As is the case with a number of dishes listed above, Bebinca is not traditionally found anywhere outside of the festive period that is Christmas.
Thankfully, many restaurants near you will feature this Indian dessert all year round, for the simple reason that it is incredibly delicious and no one deserves to miss out.
Why is this Indian Dessert So Good?
This cake uses simple ingredients like coconut milk and sugar to create a delightful flavour that runs through the entirety of the dish. Despite this, the cooking process is surprisingly complex, with lots of steps to bring about a layered effect that is great to look at, and even better to eat.
Indian Dessert 5: Mango Shrikhand
This list wouldn’t be complete without a mango-based Indian dessert. Mango Shrikhand is the winner, but some runners-up include:
- Mango Kulfi
- Mango Fruit Custard
- Mango Phrini
- Mango Sandesh
Made with milk, this lush yoghurt combines authentic saffron spice with an otherwise silky and creamy dish.
Why is this Indian Dessert So Good?
Mango Shrikhand is not just a sweet Indian dessert.
It has a gentle but warming taste that creates a flavourful experience for any hardcore fan of Indian food. Made with fresh mango and probiotic plain yoghurt, this is a healthy and enjoyable addition to any meal.
Traditional Indian Desserts - FAQs
Still not sure what authentic Indian desserts to order with your usual takeaway? These common Indian dessert FAQs might point you in the right direction.
Why are Indian desserts so sweet?
Much like most cultures, India loves a treat. The main ingredients of dairy and sugar aren’t unique, but, when following a spicy meal, they stand out to your tastebuds - making them even more delicious.
What is the national sweet of India?
On every corner you turn, and every road of India you trek, you’ll find someone selling Jalebi - a deep-fried flour batter curled into a pretzel-like shape and then drenched in sugar and syrup.
Which is the most popular Indian dessert?
Gulab Jamun is famous across India. As one of the sweetest Indian desserts, it has a memorable taste perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. The core ingredients of milk and rose water make Gulab Juman an enjoyable street food, a great addition to a takeaway, or the perfect “finish” for a meal at a restaurant.
Which Indian Dessert Are You Going To Try?
From Mysore Pak to Mango Shrikland, these Indian sweets and desserts are just some of the thousands of options out there.
If you’re feeling a little nervous and would rather stick to what you know, then there’s still some delicious food to try. Across the UK, you’ll find plenty of Indian desserts with familiar ingredients, including Goan Coconut Cake, Ricotta Pancakes, Rice Kheer, Carrot Pudding, and Coconut Ladoo.
How to Order Indian Desserts Near You
We have to admit, the amount of choice for ordering Indian desserts near you can feel a little overwhelming.
However, with ChefOnline’s state-of-the-art mobile app, you can browse hundreds of different menus all in one place, and take a look at average customer reviews to find the most authentic and enjoyable Indian sweet desserts.
- Browse the website or download the app.
- Type in your postcode.
- Look at Indian restaurants near you.
- Identify some sweet treats you’d like to try.
- Book a table or order a takeaway!
Through ChefOnline, the process is really that simple. Soon, your tastebuds will be well on the way to enjoying a fantastic new experience that takes you around the desserts of India.
