THE HISTORY OF
A BRITISH LOVE AFFAIR WITH CURRY
The British love affair with curry is a rich tapestry woven over centuries, beginning with the colonial era when Britain established a significant presence in the Indian subcontinent. British officials, soldiers, and traders stationed in India were introduced to the vibrant spices, diverse flavors, and unique culinary traditions of the region. This exposure ignited a fascination with Indian cuisine that would eventually transcend oceans and cultures.
Upon returning home, many Britons longed for the exotic tastes they had discovered abroad. Indian dishes began appearing in British cookbooks as early as the 18th century, adapted to suit local ingredients and palates. The allure of curry grew steadily, laying the foundation for what would become a deep-rooted appreciation and integration of Indian cuisine into British culture.
THE HINDOOSTANEE COFFEE HOUSE
The origin of Indian restaurants in Britain can be traced back to the early 19th century. One notable establishment was the Hindoostanee Coffee House, which opened in London in 1810. It was founded by Sake Dean Mahomed, an Indian entrepreneur and former employee of the British East India Company. The Hindoostanee Coffee House aimed to introduce British people to Indian cuisine and cultural experiences. The restaurant offered dishes like curries, Indian-style pickles, and chutneys.
While the Hindoostanee Coffee House was not a commercial success and closed after a few years, it marked the beginning of Indian culinary influences in Britain. It showcased the exotic flavors of Indian cuisine to the British public and piqued their curiosity about Indian culture.
Queen Victoria's affinity for India played a significant role in popularizing Indian cuisine in Britain. In 1876, Queen Victoria was declared the Empress of India, and she developed a deep appreciation for Indian culture and traditions. The Queen's fascination with India extended to its cuisine, and she began to incorporate Indian dishes into her own menus.
To satisfy the Queen's cravings for Indian food, her chefs hired Indian cooks and learned to prepare Indian dishes. This exposure to Indian cuisine at the royal court further enhanced the popularity of Indian food among the British aristocracy. The royal endorsement and influence significantly contributed to the acceptance and appreciation of Indian cuisine in British society.
Queen Victoria's love for India also had a broader impact on the perception of Indian culture in Britain. It sparked a fascination with Indian arts, crafts, and fashion. This interest in Indian culture, known as "Indomania," influenced the design of furniture, textiles, and decorative arts in Britain during the Victorian era.
The combination of the initial Indian restaurants, like the Hindoostanee Coffee House, and Queen Victoria's fondness for Indian cuisine and culture set the stage for the subsequent growth and popularity of Indian food in Britain. It created a foundation of curiosity and acceptance that would pave the way for the thriving British curry industry we see today.
ROYAL INFLUENCE
Queen Victoria's Affinity for Indian Cuisine
Queen Victoria's affinity for India played a significant role in popularising Indian cuisine in Britain. In 1876, Queen Victoria was declared the Empress of India, and she developed a deep appreciation for Indian culture and traditions. The Queen's fascination with India extended to its cuisine, and she began to incorporate Indian dishes into her own menus.
To satisfy the Queen's cravings for Indian food, her chefs hired Indian cooks and learned to prepare Indian dishes. This exposure to Indian cuisine at the royal court further enhanced the popularity of Indian food among the British aristocracy. The royal endorsement and influence significantly contributed to the acceptance and appreciation of Indian cuisine in British society.
Queen Victoria's love for India also had a broader impact on the perception of Indian culture in Britain. It sparked a fascination with Indian arts, crafts, and fashion. This interest in Indian culture, known as "Indomania," influenced the design of furniture, textiles, and decorative arts in Britain during the Victorian era.
The combination of the initial Indian restaurants, like the Hindoostanee Coffee House, and Queen Victoria's fondness for Indian cuisine and culture set the stage for the subsequent growth and popularity of Indian food in Britain. It created a foundation of curiosity and acceptance that would pave the way for the thriving British curry industry we see today.
Post-War Immigration and the Rise of Curry Houses
Following World War II, Britain faced significant labor shortages. To rebuild the nation, the government encouraged immigration from former colonies, leading to an influx of people from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and other parts of South Asia. Many of these immigrants settled in major cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester.
With them, they brought rich culinary traditions. In the 1950s and 1960s, the first wave of South Asian immigrants began opening restaurants and takeaways. These establishments initially catered to their own communities but soon attracted a wider British clientele curious about the new flavors.
Curry houses began adapting traditional recipes to suit British tastes, creating milder versions of dishes and introducing innovations like curry and chips. The affordability and convenience of these eateries made them popular among the working class, further embedding curry into British food culture.
70’s - Late 90’s Era
NAVIGATING RACISM AND STEREOTYPES
The Resilience of the British Curry Industry
In the midst of cultural differences, racial prejudice, and entrenched stereotypes, the British Curry industry emerged as a beacon of resilience, laying the foundation for a flourishing South Asian community in the United Kingdom. Despite facing numerous challenges and difficult working conditions rooted in racism, this vibrant culinary sector not only survived but thrived, leaving an indelible mark on British society.
The British Curry industry, although celebrated today, weathered a tumultuous journey marred by racism and cultural stereotypes. From its early beginnings, South Asian immigrants who arrived in the UK faced systemic discrimination and prejudice. These biases created an uphill battle for individuals seeking to establish themselves in the culinary realm, as they contended with unequal opportunities and derogatory perceptions.
The stereotypes surrounding British Curry further complicated matters. Often reduced to simplistic narratives of exoticism and spice, the true depth and complexity of this culinary tradition were overshadowed. The industry, once dismissed as a mere novelty, had to navigate a landscape plagued by misconceptions and a lack of understanding.
Despite these formidable barriers, the British Curry industry proved its mettle, driven by the determination and passion of those involved. Through sheer resilience, skilled chefs and restaurateurs harnessed their expertise and embraced innovation, transforming humble curry houses into bustling establishments that would become an integral part of the British culinary fabric.
Moreover, the industry's success played a pivotal role in shaping the South Asian community in the UK. Beyond its economic impact, the British Curry industry created a space where cultural exchange and appreciation thrived. Restaurants became cultural hubs, fostering a sense of community and providing a taste of home for many immigrants and their descendants. Through their culinary artistry, these establishments fostered a bridge between cultures, challenging stereotypes and fostering understanding.
Today, the enduring legacy of the British Curry industry stands as a testament to the tenacity of its pioneers and the resilience of the South Asian community in the face of adversity. It serves as a reminder that even in the face of discrimination and cultural stereotypes, talent, perseverance, and the celebration of cultural heritage can pave the way for success, transformation, and a vibrant multicultural society.
The Changing Landscape of British Curry Restaurants
For decades, the British curry industry has been dominated by Bangladeshi-owned restaurants, with approximately 85% of curry houses in the UK run by Bangladeshi restaurateurs. This dominance has been a key feature of the industry, contributing significantly to the nation's culinary identity. Campaigns like Dine Bangladeshi have played a vital role in raising awareness of this contribution, celebrating the rich heritage of Bangladeshi cuisine and encouraging diners to support these family-run establishments.
However, the landscape of British curry restaurants is gradually evolving. In recent years, there has been a notable rise in Indian-owned and Sri Lankan-owned restaurants, which now make up a growing portion of new restaurant openings. These establishments focus on offering more regionally authentic dishes, reflecting a broader shift towards diversity within British Indian cuisine.
With Indian-owned restaurants making up around 4% and Sri Lankan and Nepalese restaurants together contributing around 1%, the UK curry industry is seeing an exciting wave of innovation, bringing new flavours and dining experiences to the forefront. This new era highlights the ongoing evolution of the curry industry while still honouring its Bangladeshi roots.