Aloo masala is a spicy potato mixture that is often served alongside, or folded inside, a dosa. This combination, widely eaten in South India, is known as masala dosa. Coconut chutney is a common accompaniment.

Baati is a hard, unleavened bread cooked in desert areas of Rajasthan and Gujarat in North India. It is prized there for its exceptionally long life and high energy content, as well as the minimal quantity of water required in its preparation.

The chapati is the staple flat bread of Northern India, also known as a roti. It may be made from many types of grain, but is most commonly made with whole wheat flour. In India it is sometimes cooked in a little oil.

Appam, a fermented rice pancake, is a speciality of the South Indian coastal state of Kerala. It is especially popular among the Christian communities of that state. Appam are often served along with a coconut-flavoured vegetable stew.

A dosa is a thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice, very popular both at home and in restaurants in South India. It may be served plain with chutneys such as coconut chutney, or with aloo masala folded inside; this latter dish is known as masala dosa.

Coconut chutney is served as an accompaniment to many South Indian dishes, such as dosa and idli.

Mint and Coriander Chutney is often served in Indian Restaurants as a “starter” along with some poppadums and other chutneys. It has an intense flavour, and can sometimes be very hot, the heat depends on the number of green chillis you add.

Mango lassi is a very refreshing yoghurt based drink, ideal for taking away the heat of indian spices following a spicy hot meal, or for a cool refreshment on a hot summer’s day.

This masala is used in the particular type of Indian curry known as Balti, which literally means “bucket” as it is served in the pan in which it is cooked. Again, you can make this is bulk and keep it for weeks in an airtight container.

This is a Balti variation on Garam Masala. Balti is a type of Indian cooking from Baltistan, in Pakistan, the home of Balti cooking. You may vary the ingredients to suit your taste. Makes about 7oz (200g)