When looking for authentic Indian food in Basingstoke, it’s easy to stick to familiar classics like Chicken Tikka Masala or Korma. While those British-Indian classics hold a special place in our hearts, regional Indian cuisine offers a far richer tapestry of bold spices, slow-cooked gravies, and vibrant street food flavours. At Spices & Spirits, located in Kings Furlong, Basingstoke, our award-winning chefs bring regional recipes straight from North and South India to your table. If you’re ready to elevate your dining experience, here are 5 authentic Indian dishes you need to try in Basingstoke on your next night out. 1. Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh Originating from the cooler climates of Kashmir, Lamb Rogan Josh is the ultimate hearty curry for spice lovers seeking deep flavour rather than raw heat. At Spices & Spirits, tender chunks of grass-fed lamb are slow-braised for hours in a rich, aromatic gravy infused with Kashmiri red chillies, ginger, cardamom, and fennel seeds. 2. Smoky Paneer Tikka (Vegetarian & Gluten-Free Favourite) Indian cuisine offers some of the most vibrant vegetarian options in the world. Paneer Tikka is a classic starter that appeals to vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Fresh cottage cheese (paneer) cubes are marinated in rich hung yogurt, mustard oil, and ground tandoori spices before being charred to perfection in a traditional clay tandoor oven. 3. Authentic Dum Biryani Biryani isn’t just a meal—it’s a celebrated culinary craft. Unlike standard takeaway fried rice dishes, true Dum Biryani is cooked using a slow-steaming method that seals in aromatics. We layer long-grain basmati rice with marinated meat or seasonal vegetables, fresh mint, fried onions, and whole spices before sealing the handi pot to trap the steam. 4. Creamy Dal Makhani (The Ultimate Comfort Food) Hailing from the Punjab region, Dal Makhani showcases how humble ingredients transform into pure luxury. Whole black lentils and kidney beans are slow-cooked overnight over simmered flames, finished with real butter, cream, and subtle spices. 5. Fusion Indian Desserts: Gulab Jamun Cheesecake No authentic dining experience is complete without a sweet ending. While classic Gulab Jamun (syrup-soaked fried milk dumplings) is a timeless choice, our culinary team created a modern local favourite: the Gulab Jamun Cheesecake. Combining smooth, velvety cheesecake with aromatic rose, cardamom, and soft gulab jamun layers, it offers the perfect fusion of East meets West. Why Spices & Spirits is Basingstoke’s Top-Rated Indian Restaurant Whether planning an anniversary dinner, a corporate group booking, or catching up over weekend cocktails, Spices & Spirits offers a premium dining atmosphere with warm hospitality. Plan Your Visit to Spices & Spirits Basingstoke Ready to taste authentic Indian flavours without leaving Hampshire? Reserve your table online or place an order for takeaway.