What’s more British than Winston Churchill, Queen Elizabeth and the red ‘phone box COMBINED? the answer is an authentic Indian Meal (referred to as a ‘curry’ by my good countryfolks). Living in the UK it’s easy to get Indian food quickly and inexpensively – for under US$15 you can enjoy a three-course meal that will leave you bursting at the seams with enjoyment. And, if you order carefully, the food is naturally Vegan – butter and yoghurt are used, but only in certain dishes.

Unfortunately, stateside, there’s almost no customer demand for good curry in the face of ubiquitous ethnic foods of the US immigrant population (Asian, South American, etc.). Above all the lack of expertise to prepare Indian food (the British way, that is) means that it’s impossible to experience anything remotely like a British curry on this side of the pond. So, what’s a Brit over here to do?

Well, looking for a good Indian restaurant is a great start — and most US cities have a sprinkling of Indian restaurants to choose from. However, in LA there are eight decent restaurants, and even the very best one (India’s Grill, by the Beverly Center) doesn’t come anywhere near close to even one of the worst restaurants in London.

Talking of London, Great Windmill Street off Piccadilly Circus has nine (count ’em) Indian restaurants, each of which is very good indeed.

So, I set about recreating the Great British Curry out here in Sunny California. Over the next few weeks I’ll post the trials, tribulations, recipes and pictures of each dish. Stay tuned, but here’s a sneak peek at what Vegetable Vindaloo, Tofu Saag and Pilau Rice look like after several practice attempts and several hours in the kitchen: