What to Avoid in Indian Curries with a Nut Allergy

Indian cuisine is rich, flavorful, and diverse, but for those with nut allergies, enjoying it safely can be challenging. Many traditional Indian curries use nuts or nut-based ingredients to enhance texture and flavor. If you or someone you know has a nut allergy, it’s essential to be aware of common nuts used in these dishes and how to avoid potential allergens.

Common Nuts Used in Indian Curries

• Cashews: Often used whole, chopped, or ground into a paste for creaminess.
• Almonds: Sometimes added for garnishing or ground into gravies.
• Pistachios and Walnuts: Occasionally used, especially in richer, festive dishes.

Nut-Based Ingredients to Watch Out For

• Nut Pastes: Cashew or almond paste is a common thickener in many creamy curries like Korma.
• Garnishes: Sliced or chopped nuts sprinkled on top.
• Desserts: While not curries, desserts served alongside such as Kheer may also contain nuts.

Dishes Commonly Containing Nuts

• Korma: A mild, creamy curry often cooked with nuts.
• Butter Chicken with cashew paste: Creamy gravies sometimes use nut pastes.
• Shahi Paneer: A rich curry with nut or seed pastes.

How to Safely Enjoy Indian Curries with a Nut Allergy

• Ask Questions: In restaurants, inquire specifically about nuts in dishes.
• Use mm food App: Utilize the mm food app to translate menus and check dishes for nut ingredients or allergens.
• Customize Orders: Request nut-free preparations or avoid dishes known to contain nuts.
• Read Labels: If using packaged sauces or ready-to-eat curries, carefully check ingredient lists.

Alternative Ingredients

Many restaurants or home chefs use yogurt, coconut milk, or cream to thicken curries instead of nut pastes. Don’t hesitate to ask if these options are available.

Conclusion

A nut allergy shouldn’t stop you from enjoying delicious Indian curries. Awareness, careful menu reading, and tools like the mm food app can help you identify safe dishes and avoid risks. With proper precautions, you can savor the rich flavors of Indian cuisine safely.

For those with nut allergies, always prioritize safety and use trusted resources to navigate unfamiliar menus.