It is a truth universally acknowledged that Brummies love a good curry, but what makes a good curry? As a South Asian person, I would say it is about finding the right balance of herbs and spices to make a base for your choice of protein or vegetables.
There are some basic spices like turmeric, chilli and coriander powder, and herbs like garlic, ginger or coriander leaves that usually go into some of the most popular curries loved by people across the world, including in Birmingham and the West Midlands.
Of course, there are curries that are entirely different like a Rezala that is made with cashews, yoghurt and poppy seed, but for the every day menu in South Asian homes it is more likely to find the former than the latter.
And, if you have been looking for a good curry, Birmingham is teeming with great restaurants and Desi pubs. Desi pubs have been around for a while in the UK after first cropping up to feed South Asian migrants in the 1960s.
Many of them are still around in Birmingham and continue to make yummy homemade curries that everybody has fallen in love with. So, here are eight Desi pubs ranked - according to our personal and subjective opinion - in and around Birmingham:
1. Hen & Chicken, Jewellery Quarter
This lovely Desi pub in Jewellery Quarter serves a varied selection of dishes. I was surprised to see how massive the place is and how good the food is. They have many different kinds of curries but if you are not sure which one to pick just go for "curry" from their menu.
2. Indian Brewery, Snowhill
This pub and restaurant has incredible decor steeped in Bollywood yesteryear's. The informal setting and the great beer makes a visit here that much more better. From street food to curries - they serve everything and I thoroughly enjoyed the quirky seating set up. They have many options for vegetarians but the butter chicken curry is a popular one here.
3. Keg & Grill, Birmingham city centre
On enterring this one, I found casual seating and a very casual neighbourhood pub where the owners probably know their regulars by name. However, don't be mistaken by the vibe because the food is delicious and feels homemade. Don't miss their Balti - which is made with a touch of mango chutney.
4. Soho Tavern, Hockley
Another casual pub where you can find a corner to hang out with friends while digging into their yummy food. They have many veggie and meat options and don't miss out on their creamy Dal Makhni.