Throwing a dinner party is fun but can also feel like a lot of pressure, especially when it comes to choosing the right food. You want to serve something that's delicious, impressive, and, of course, easy to prepare. That’s where Indian takeaway comes in. It’s packed with flavour, offers a huge variety, and will leave your guests talking about your party for weeks. Plus, with options from the best Indian restaurants London has to offer, you don’t even have to worry about cooking!
Why Indian Takeaway is Perfect for Dinner Parties
Indian food is a fantastic choice for any dinner party. It’s bursting with unique flavours and has something for everyone—whether they love it mild or spicy. Plus, you can easily cater to vegetarians, meat lovers, and everything in between, all from the same Indian restaurant.
The best part is, with so many Indian takeaways near you, you can get restaurant-quality food without spending all day in the kitchen. Just a few clicks to order food online, and you’re set.
So, what should you order to really wow your guests? Let’s dive into some must-have dishes!
Crowd-Pleasing Indian Dishes for Your Party
- Samosas and Onion Bhajis: These bite-sized starters are always a hit. Samosas are crispy pastry pockets filled with spiced potatoes, peas, or even lamb. They’re easy to eat and loaded with flavour. Onion bhajis are another great option—fried, spiced onion fritters that are perfect with a dipping sauce. You can find these at nearly every Indian takeaway near you and they’ll get the party off to a delicious start.
- Tandoori Chicken: If you want to serve something that looks and tastes amazing, go for Tandoori Chicken. It’s marinated in spiced yoghurt and cooked in a traditional tandoor oven, giving it that smoky, charred flavour everyone loves. This dish isn’t too spicy and works well with a fresh salad or some naan on the side. It’s a top pick at most Indian restaurants and sure to please your guests!
- Chicken Tikka Masala Who can resist Chicken Tikka Masala? It’s creamy, mildly spiced, and just flat-out delicious. Even if your guests aren’t familiar with Indian food, they’ll likely enjoy this one. It’s a UK favourite for a reason, and it’s an easy win for your dinner party. Look for a restaurant award winner to make sure you’re getting the best version of this classic dish.
- Paneer Tikka: Got vegetarians at your party? No problem! Paneer Tikka is a fantastic choice. Paneer is a mild Indian cheese grilled after being marinated in spices. It’s hearty and satisfying without being heavy. Trust me, your veggie friends (and probably some meat-eaters too) will love it. Just check out the takeaways near me for places that have good vegetarian options.
- Lamb Rogan Josh: Looking for something a little more indulgent? Lamb Rogan Josh is where it’s at. This dish is rich, slow-cooked lamb in a spiced tomato-based sauce, and the flavours are incredible. Pair it with rice or naan, and you’re set for an unforgettable main course. Be sure to find an Indian takeaway that knows how to balance those spices just right.
- Biryani: A good biryani can steal the show. This fragrant rice dish is loaded with flavour and comes with your choice of meat or veggies. The delicate spices in a biryani make it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s hearty enough to serve as the main dish. If you’re ordering from the best Indian restaurant London offers, a well-made biryani will make your dinner party stand out.
Don’t Forget the Extras: Indian Breads and Sides
Indian food isn’t complete without the right sides. Naan bread (especially garlic or butter naan) is essential for scooping up all those tasty sauces. You can also go for lighter options like chapati or paratha. Add some raita (a cool yoghurt sauce) and a few chutneys to balance the spice. Most Indian takeaway places will have these on offer as easy add-ons.
Sweet Endings: Indian Desserts for the Win
After all the savoury dishes, your guests might crave something sweet. Indian desserts are the perfect way to wrap up the meal. Gulab Jamun, which are syrup-soaked dough balls, or Mango Kulfi, a creamy mango ice cream, are both great options. Not too heavy but definitely satisfying, these treats will leave your guests impressed.
You can find these at any Indian restaurant or order food online from a takeaway that offers desserts. They’re often overlooked, but trust me, they’re worth including.
Pro Tips for Ordering the Best Indian Takeaway
Now that you know what dishes to get, here are a few quick tips to make sure everything goes smoothly:
- Order in advance: Indian takeaways get busy, especially on weekends. Place your order early to avoid any delays.
- Look for set menus or party deals: Some of the best London Indian restaurant spots offer combo deals or party platters, which make it easier to order a variety without breaking the bank.
- Manage the spice levels: If your guests aren’t used to spicy food, ask the restaurant to tone it down a bit or provide extra yoghurt sauces to cool things off.
- Check for dietary options: Make sure you have a good mix of vegetarian, meat, and gluten-free options. Indian food is naturally flexible with dietary preferences, so it’s easy to find something for everyone.
Final Thoughts: Host the Perfect Indian-Inspired Dinner Party
With Indian takeaway, hosting a dinner party doesn’t have to be a hassle. You get a range of incredible flavours, from spicy to mild, with little effort on your part. From Chicken Tikka Masala to Lamb Rogan Josh, these dishes will leave your guests raving about the meal long after the night ends.
So, the next time you’re planning a dinner party, skip the stress of cooking and search for an Indian takeaway near me. Whether you’re ordering from a restaurant award winner or the best Indian restaurant London has, you’re guaranteed to impress your guests with a memorable, flavour-packed meal.