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Fish and chips have long been hailed as the most iconic British dish, recognized worldwide for its appeal. However, in recent times, a South Asian culinary delight, Tikka Masala, has emerged as a strong contender for the title of ‘a true British national dish.’ Although Tikka Masala’s origins lie in South Asia, its popularity and integration into British culture exemplify the country’s rich history of multicultural influences and culinary diplomacy.

The roots of Tikka Masala can be traced back to the diverse culinary landscape of South Asia, but its journey in becoming an integral part of British cuisine is nothing short of fascinating. Various claims surround the invention of Tikka Masala, but one widely accepted narrative suggests that it originated in Glasgow, Scotland, during the 1970s. Legend has it that a customer at an Indian restaurant complained about the chicken tikka being too dry. In response, the inventive chef introduced a spiced tomato-based sauce to the dish, thus giving birth to the now-famous Tikka Masala.

British Tikka Masala boasts a captivating and often debated history, intricately linked to diplomacy and multiculturalism in the context of British culinary heritage. While it may not be a traditional British dish, its widespread popularity in the UK serves as a testament to the country’s openness to embracing diverse cultural influences.

The multiculturalism in British cuisine can be attributed to centuries of colonization, trade, and immigration, which have welcomed people from all corners of the world, bringing along their unique culinary traditions. As a result, British cuisine has evolved into a vibrant fusion of flavors and ingredients from diverse cultures. Tikka Masala perfectly embodies this culinary amalgamation, harmoniously combining South Asian spices and cooking techniques with British preferences.

The allure of Tikka Masala goes beyond the UK, with various airlines seeking their variations of this delectable dish. For instance, Arabic Chicken Tikka Masala and ‘British Airways’ Best of British’ Chicken Tikka Masala, inspired by the ‘Friday Takeaway,’ demonstrate its universal appeal. With approximately 47 different recipes in the system, ranging from variations with nuts, no nuts, sugar, honey, vegan options, low-calorie versions, saffron-infused versions, and even a Christmas Turkey Tikka Masala, Tikka Masala’s adaptability underscores its versatility and broad appeal.

Culinary diplomacy plays a significant role in the rise of Chicken Tikka Masala as a beloved dish in the UK and beyond. By embracing and adopting this South Asian delicacy, the British people have showcased their appreciation for Indian cuisine and culture, fostering a stronger bond between the two nations and exemplifying the positive aspects of multiculturalism.

The popularity of Chicken Tikka Masala in the UK has sparked lively debates about whether it deserves the title of the country’s national dish. While some argue that it represents the nation’s rich diversity, others raise concerns that it may overshadow traditional British dishes. Nonetheless, its widespread acceptance and seamless integration into British cuisine demonstrate the profound impact of multicultural influences on modern British identity.

The journey of Chicken Tikka Masala from South Asia to become a cherished British national dish highlights the significance of multiculturalism in British cuisine. It symbolizes the power of culinary diplomacy, fostering cultural exchange and understanding between nations. As the UK continues to celebrate its diverse heritage, dishes like Chicken Tikka Masala stand as testaments to the richness and inclusivity of British food culture.

The concept of ‘Tikka Masala diplomacy’ as a means of promoting cultural exchange and understanding between nations has proven effective, extending its popularity to countries like the UK, America, and various parts of Europe. Utilizing Chicken Tikka Masala as a representation of Britishness during airline catering, events research, development, workshops, presentations, and production endeavors can be a powerful way to celebrate the multicultural influences that have shaped modern British cuisine. By serving this dish and sharing its history, British culture’s openness and inclusivity are showcased, highlighting how it has embraced and integrated culinary traditions from around the world.

Through Tikka Masala diplomacy, a positive image of the UK emerges as a country that values diversity, fosters cultural appreciation, and seeks to connect with people from different backgrounds. By sharing the story of Chicken Tikka Masala and its journey from South Asia to the UK and beyond, meaningful conversations about multiculturalism can be encouraged, motivating others to explore and celebrate their cultural heritage.

Food possesses a unique ability to unite people, and Chicken Tikka Masala’s popularity serves as compelling evidence that culinary diplomacy can effectively build bridges and foster international connections. As this dish continues to spread Britishness around the world, it is essential to approach it with respect for its origins and the cultural contributions of the Indian subcontinent. Emphasizing the fusion of flavors and cross-cultural collaboration behind Tikka Masala’s global appeal adds depth to its appreciation.

Ultimately, Tikka Masala diplomacy offers a positive and impactful approach to promoting cultural understanding and appreciation. By showcasing the multicultural influences within British cuisine and celebrating the journey of Chicken Tikka Masala, we contribute to a more interconnected and inclusive global community.

This is my version of the Chicken Tikka Masala recipe and it’s the easiest one ever.

Ingredients:

• 800 g boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 120 ml vegetable oil

• 800 gm | 2 cans creamy tomato soup (store-bought or homemade)

• 6 gm | 3 teaspoons garam masala

• 2.5 gm |1 teaspoon chili powder

• Salt, to taste

• Fresh cilantro (coriander leaves) for garnish

Methodology:

Marinate the chicken pieces with one teaspoon of garam masala, oil, and 10.5 gm of salt.

Preheat your grill or BBQ to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken pieces until they are cooked through and have a slightly charred exterior.

For the sauce, pour in the creamy tomato soup and stir to combine with the rest of the two spoons of garam masala. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, add the grilled chicken pieces to the sauce and gently stir to coat the chicken with the creamy tikka masala sauce.

Taste the sauce and add salt as needed. If you prefer a richer flavor, stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream, if you have it in your kitchen cabinet, and let it simmer for an additional minute.

Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve the Chicken Tikka Masala over cooked basmati rice.

Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make Chicken Tikka Masala!

The author is a UK-based R&D chef

Bishow Bimohan Shrestha, 67, is a poet from Tehrathum in Eastern Nepal. He has authored many poetry collections as well as written lyrics for more than a dozen songs. For his significant contribution to Nepali literature, he has been awarded the ‘Pragya Pratisthan Award’ and ‘Ratna Shree Swarna Padak’. He is currently the executive chairman at Apec Nepal, a literary and cultural institution. In a conversation with ApEx, Shrestha spoke about his love for poems and all things literary. 

What made you want to write poems?

I started when I was in school. In 1967, I participated in a poetry writing competition on children’s day and got an award for it. Since then, I’ve been writing poems. In 1987, my first poetry book ‘Bishow Bimohan Ka Kehi Kabitaharu’ got published. ‘Euta Gantabya ko Khojima’ was published by Sanjha Publication in the following year. After that, ‘Angar Ka Dhamila Dharsha haru’, ‘Ma Bhat Joru Ki Kavita Lekhu’, and an English poetry collection eventually got published. Now, I am working on another collection which will be published as soon as I finalize the manuscript.

How has your literary journey been so far?

Literary celebrations like ‘Kavi Gosthi’ were exceptionally important to every writer around 40 years back, since holding a literary conference was a big deal unlike now. In 1980, I joined the Association of Literary Journalists as a member and later held the position of chairman. Let’s say that we were the pioneers of such literary initiatives. 

We used to gather talented writers from all over Nepal in Kathmandu and give them a platform to interact with journalists, established authors, and other literary organizations. During this time, I served there for 20 years and organized various literary forums, international literary events, and many other programs. I treasure these experiences. I believe that what I have accomplished as a poet so far is a result of my ongoing commitment to supporting talented Nepali writers and promoting Nepali literature. 

What does your writing schedule/style look like? 

I write poems, though not exclusively. But when I do, I pour all my feelings into it. After a few days, I review it with a fresh mind before editing and rewriting my work. My mood is what drives me to write. I still have a ton of unfinished manuscripts in my drawer that need to be updated. In my writing, I generally use imagery and metaphors to express emotions. In my earlier works, imagery was particularly used to capture the beauty of the natural world. But now imagery mostly captures the theme of disorder, hypocrisy, and corruption of the world. I even use references from myths to make my idea clear. 

I want my work to have meaning. I want it to reflect people’s aspirations. A writer’s success depends on how well he can connect with his readers. That’s why I do my best to avoid redundancy and try to tap into people’s emotions.

My writings mainly focus on the natural world, affection, aging, nationalism, current affairs, political disparities, and humankind. The majority of my writings are about societal challenges. 

How difficult is it to be a writer?

Writers today are far luckier than writers of our time. Ratna Pustak Bhandar, Sanjha Prakashan, and Pragya Pratisthan were a few publication houses back then. But today, there are many new platforms like the internet, television, and newspapers. If someone wants to write, there are a lot of opportunities to get their work out there. 

What do you think of the current situation of Nepali literature?

Poetry, in particular, has improved. Lekhnath Paudyal, Hari Bhakta Katuwal, Laxmi Prasad Devkota, and Gopal Prasad Rimal are a few prominent Nepali authors who deserve a special mention for their contributions to advancing the field of Nepali literature from a thematic and contextual standpoint. I don’t think the government is concerned with promoting Nepali literature. But there is a lot of scope in it and Nepali literature can become popular globally if we can promote it well. 

Shrestha’s Picks

Sarwakaleen Pinda Ra Jagritika Shankhaghosh by Usha Sherchan

In this book, Usha Sherchan reflects on the discrimination faced by women in epics like Mahabharata and Ramayana. She relates them to the current situation of women in political and societal contexts, giving it a feminist perspective. 

Kavita Ko Rang by Rajendra Shalabh

‘Kavita Ko Rang’ by Rajendra Shalabh is a kind of poem that selflessly symbolizes different aspects of our family, society, culture, and especially our mothers in a way that gives you goosebumps. The language is simple and the story is very relatable. 

Ghumne Mech Mathi Andho Manche by Bhupi Sherchan

‘Ghumne Mech Mathi Andho Manche’ is a Nepali poetry collection that was awarded Sajha Puraskar in 1969. It’s very inspiring and uplifting. It gives readers a different perspective on what a society must be like and inspires them to look forward to a change.

Vehicular movement along the Palpa-Butwal road section of the Siddhartha Highway has been obstructed following a landslide near Siddhababa Temple of Palpa on Sunday.

The Dobhan Police Post, Papla said technicians, dozers and excavators of Siddhababa Tunnel Construction Company China State Corporation have been mobilized to remove the landslide debris.

The construction company China State Corporation has been working continuously even in the rainy season.

Technicians have assumed that the landslide might have occurred due to the vibration of the machine.

Palpa police said that it would take some time to clear the debris.

Hundreds of vehicles leaving for Palpa, Gulmi, Syangja, Arghakhanchi, Parbat, Baglung and Kaski among others places have been stranded halfway following the landslide.

Siddharth Highway is the main highway to connect Pokhara from the Indian border Sunauli.

The Narayangadh-Muglin road section has been obstructed yet again today following a landslide near Kalikhola of Ichchhakamana Rural Municipality-6.

According to DSP Bijay Raj Pandit, spokesperson at the District Police Office, Chitwan, the landslide occurred at 9 am today, obstructing the vehicular movement.

He said that the efforts are on to resume the traffic by removing the landslide debris.

Vehicular movement along the road section has remained frequently disrupted due to the landslides time and again.