National Curry Week 2024
7th October 2024
7th October 2024
As the leaves begin to turn and autumn sets in, food lovers across the UK prepare to celebrate one of the nation’s most loved dishes: curry! National Curry Week, celebrated from 7th to 13th October, is an annual event that not only highlights the rich diversity of curry but also encourages people to enjoy the warm, comforting flavours that curry offers.
With its roots deep in Indian cooking and influences from various cultures, curry has become a staple in British cuisine, making it a perfect reason to indulge in delicious meals and explore local culinary gems.
Founded in 2001 by the renowned chef and curry aficionado, Peter Gordon, National Curry Week was created to celebrate the cultural significance of curry in Britain. The week-long event aims to raise awareness of the UK’s vibrant curry culture and the incredible chefs who contribute to it.
Over the years, it has evolved into a platform for various initiatives, including charity fundraising, showcasing local restaurants, and encouraging people to explore the myriad of flavours that curry has to offer.
In 2023, National Curry Week highlighted a staggering statistic: the UK consumes an estimated 2.5 billion curry dishes annually! This figure reflects the huge popularity of curry in British households and restaurants, making it one of the nation’s favourite meals.
Curry is more than just a dish; it’s a cultural phenomenon. From its origins in Indian cuisine to its adaptation in British culture, curry has evolved into a much-loved culinary experience that transcends boundaries.
In the UK, the first curry house opened in 1809 in London, and since then, the love for this dish has grown exponentially. The famous Chicken Tikka Masala, often touted as Britain’s national dish, epitomises this fusion of cultures. Its creation is said to have taken place in a British Indian restaurant, where a customer requested a sauce to accompany his chicken tikka.
This National Curry Week, why not experience the flavours of Essence – the acclaimed restaurant located on The Pantiles. Helmed by the celebrated chef Atul Kochhar, Essence promises an unforgettable dining experience that beautifully marries traditional Indian cuisine with contemporary flair.
Atul Kochhar, the first Indian chef to receive a Michelin star, is renowned for his innovative approach to Indian cooking. His passion for creating dishes that reflect both authenticity and modernity is evident in every plate served at Essence.
The restaurant features a carefully curated menu that showcases a variety of curries, each crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and aromatic spices. Guests can indulge in signature dishes like the Lamb Rogan Josh, slow-cooked to perfection with a rich blend of spices, or the Goan Fish Curry, bursting with flavours of coconut and tamarind.
Essence also offers an impressive selection of vegetarian options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the rich tapestry of flavours that curry has to offer. The restaurant’s elegant setting, combined with exceptional service, makes it a perfect destination for a special meal during National Curry Week.
This National Curry Week, why not indulge in the rich flavours of curry and support local restaurants like Essence? Whether you’re a fan of fiery spices or prefer milder dishes, there’s a curry out there for everyone.