A Taste of India: Dalchini
Cinnamon is commonly used both in the preparation of Indian and curry dishes and in spice mixes. It is one of the five basic whole spices in Indian cooking and its earthy and peppery flavour adds a sweet yet spicy taste to both sweet and savoury dishes.
The Hindi word for cinnamon is “dalchini” and that is the very evocative name of a new Indian restaurant in the centre of Leeston. Before Dalchini opened, if Leeston residents craved Asian flavours they would have to travel kilometres away. Now that option is on their very own High Street – with a variety of curries.
Naturally, there is a Dalchini “special chicken” dish cooked with onion and cashew gravy, alongside mint flavours and the chef’s secret Nawabi spice recipe.
The full selection is a mind-blowingly comprehensive mix of both recognisable and beloved Northern and Southern Indian dishes (of course Butter Chicken features), and less well-known fare (Chicken Do Piyaza or Lamb/Beef Balti). All wonderful flavours available as mild or medium and served with Basmati rice.
There is a large vegetarian offering too.
Dalchini at 88 High Street, Leeston, is open seven days – lunch Tuesday – Sunday 11.30am – 2.00pm; dinner every day 4.30pm – 9.00pm. They cater for both dine-in and takeaway, and home delivery is available. Call 03 420 0031.
