Let’s be honest, when you fancy Indian cuisine, is it the bold flavours or that unmistakable tingle of spice that excites your taste buds? For so many of us, spice is as much about comfort and nostalgia as it is about excitement. At Express Indian Delivered, I am passionate about what goes into every meal I send to your freezer. Understanding spice is a wonderful way to not only choose the perfect meal for your mood but also to enjoy Indian food at its most authentic.
When most people talk about ‘spicy’ food, they usually mean ‘hot’ food. But in reality, spice is much more than heat alone. Indian cuisine uses a beautiful range of spices [known as 'masalas'] which offer layers of flavour – some bring sweetness or earthiness, others bring warmth or fragrance. Then there are those that bring the fire: chillies!
In the kitchen, I use fresh green and red chillies, dried powders, and seeds. While chilli peppers borrowed their way into Indian kitchens only a few centuries ago, they’re now fully part of our culinary heritage. But let’s not forget, classic spices like black pepper have been a part of Indian cooking for thousands of years.
It’s always been important to me that our meals reflect this incredible balance – each dish should offer a unique profile, from gentle and aromatic, to fiery and thrilling.
Indian food is rooted in carefully building up flavours, never just piling on heat. Spice levels don’t just come from how much chilli is added; they come from the thoughtful blending of multiple spices. So, a mild meal doesn’t mean a bland one, and a bold dish isn’t always a tongue-scorcher.
For example, our creamy Chicken Korma uses cashews, coconut, and a mild garam masala. The warmth is inviting, never intimidating. In contrast, a vindaloo brings sharp, tangy notes from vinegar and plenty of red chilli – it’s designed to wake up your palate and make you reach for a cool lassi!
What makes Indian meals sing is the way every spice is chosen for harmony. Cardamom adds sweetness, cumin offers earthiness, and coriander freshens things up. The blend is intentional and joyful, and it’s exactly how I craft the range available at Express Indian Delivered.
Understanding what the labels ‘mild,’ ‘medium,’ or ‘hot’ actually mean can be the difference between a comforting dinner and a surprising one. Here’s how I guide you through the heat spectrum:
Mild: Our mild dishes are aromatic, with subtle warmth rather than overwhelming heat. These meals are perfect for families, those new to Indian food, or anyone seeking comfort over challenge. Classic options include korma, tikka masala, and butter chicken.
Medium: Expect a warming tickle on the tongue. Medium dishes balance savoury, slightly tangy, and just enough heat to keep things interesting. Think jalfrezi, rogan josh, or dhansak – full of spice, but approachable for most palates.
Hot: Here’s where the fire lives. These dishes are made for chilli lovers, with flavours that demand attention but never overpower. Vindaloo and madras fit this category. The precise level of heat can vary, but when I say ‘hot,’ be ready for a lively experience.
Indian Hot: I always advise a little caution here! Indian hot is not for the faint-hearted. This is the level of heat you’d find in a bustling street kitchen in Mumbai or a late-night curry house. Only opt for this if you’re serious about your chillies. I make sure to label these dishes clearly, so you’re in full control of your dinner.
Everybody’s spice tolerance is unique. Some can eat scotch bonnet peppers like sweeties; others find a gentle korma more than enough. It’s not about ‘toughness’ or pride, but about enjoying your food and feeling good afterwards.
If you’re new to Indian cuisine, I always encourage starting at the lower end of the heat scale. Enjoy the complexity of spices in a mild dish, and as your taste buds get used to new sensations, try medium or hotter options next time. It’s all about your comfort and enjoyment.
I know that for busy families and convenience seekers, quick meals shouldn’t mean compromising on authenticity, quality, or even that joyful burst of flavour. Our advanced blast-freezing techniques mean each meal holds on to the magic of fresh spices, vibrant herbs, and slow-cooked sauces. So when you unpack your order from Express Indian Delivered, whether it’s a mild dal or a fiery vindaloo, you get the full experience just as it should be.
Sometimes, even a medium dish can catch you by surprise! Here are some confident little fixes you can use if your dinner turns out hotter than you bargained for:
On the other hand, if you crave even more punch, try scattering chopped fresh chillies over your meal or keeping tangy pickles on the table.
One of my greatest joys is helping families and curious eaters navigate the world of Indian flavour. Children often grow up loving the mild, creamy dishes. As they get older, some might seek out the thrill of a spicier curry. I love that our menu has something for everyone, making it so easy for you to try something new without committing to just one level of heat for the whole household.
Your convenience is always top of mind, so every dish in our selection is marked with a clear spice rating. That way, you can pick with confidence or mix and match for a shared, family-style feast.
Indian spices do so much more than tingle your tongue. Many are packed with antioxidants, aid digestion, and support well-being. Turmeric, ginger, garlic, cumin, and coriander are everyday superstars not just in Indian kitchens, but now in studies on nutrition and health too.
While I make meals that satisfy your flavour cravings, there’s pride in knowing they can be good for you as well.
At Express Indian Delivered, I am devoted to crafting authentic Indian meals that bring cheer to your table, while upholding standards that matter – from animal welfare to environmental impact. Every dish is part of my family’s dedication to sharing the best of Indian food.
There’s no need for guesswork. If you’re ready to bring the perfect balance of tender spice, fresh flavours, and wholesome meals to your kitchen, have a look at our full range and find your next favourite at Express Indian Delivered. Let’s make every mealtime a little more joyful, no matter your heat preference.
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