Indian takeaway is one of the most popular food choices in the UK. From creamy curries to sizzling tandoori dishes, it’s full of flavour and variety. But if you’ve ever wondered how many calories are in Indian takeaway food, you’re not alone.
Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, manage your weight, or simply make better food choices, understanding the calorie content of Indian takeaway can help you enjoy it without guilt.
This guide breaks everything down in a simple, honest, and easy-to-understand way.
Why Indian Takeaway Calories Can Be High
Indian takeaway calories can vary widely depending on how the food is prepared.
Many traditional dishes use:
- Ghee or oil for cooking
- Cream, butter, or coconut milk in sauces
- Large portion sizes common in UK takeaways
Curries cooked with rich sauces naturally contain more calories than grilled or dry dishes. That doesn’t mean Indian food is unhealthy – it just means some choices are higher in calories than others.
Average Calories in Popular Indian Takeaway Dishes
Here’s a realistic look at the average calories in Indian takeaway dishes commonly ordered in the UK:
- Chicken Tikka Masala: 450–600 calories
- Butter Chicken: 550–700 calories
- Chicken Korma: 600–750 calories
- Chicken Biryani: 600–800 calories
- Lamb Rogan Josh: 550–700 calories
- Vegetable Curry: 300–450 calories
- Saag Chicken: 350–500 calories
These values can change depending on portion size and cooking style, but they give a good estimate of Indian takeaway calorie counts.
Calories in Indian Starters and Sides
Starters and sides often add more calories than people realise.
Popular Indian Starters
- Onion Bhaji: 250–300 calories
- Vegetable Samosa: 200–250 calories
- Chicken Pakora: 300–400 calories
Rice and Bread
- Plain Boiled Rice: 200–250 calories
- Pilau Rice: 300–350 calories
- Plain Naan: 300–350 calories
- Cheese Naan: 450–500 calories
- Papadum: 65–70 calories each
Bread and rice can quickly increase the total calories in an Indian takeaway meal.
Lowest Calorie Indian Takeaway Options
If you’re looking for low calorie Indian takeaway options, there are plenty of good choices.
Healthier options include:
- Chicken Tikka (grilled): 250–300 calories
- Tandoori Chicken: 300–400 calories
- Dal (lentil curry): 250–350 calories
- Vegetable Jalfrezi: 300–400 calories
- Tomato-based curries instead of creamy sauces
These dishes are filling, flavourful, and lower in fat.
Highest Calorie Indian Takeaway Dishes to Watch
Some dishes are best enjoyed as an occasional treat due to their high calorie content.
High calorie Indian takeaway dishes include:
- Korma and Butter-based curries
- Creamy coconut curries
- Cheese naan and stuffed naan
- Large biryani portions
- Deep-fried starters
Being aware helps you balance your choices rather than avoid Indian food altogether.
How to Reduce Calories When Ordering Indian Takeaway
You don’t need to stop ordering Indian takeaway to eat healthier. Small changes make a big difference.
Smart Ordering Tips
- Choose grilled or tandoori dishes
- Ask for less oil or cream
- Swap naan for boiled rice or share bread
- Order half portions if available
- Avoid ordering too many sides
These simple steps can cut hundreds of calories from your meal.
Is Indian Takeaway Healthy? (UK Perspective)
Indian takeaway can absolutely fit into a balanced UK diet when chosen wisely.
Many dishes contain:
- Lean protein (chicken, lentils)
- Vegetables and spices with health benefits
- Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian options
The key is moderation and smart choices, not restriction.
FAQs
How many calories are in an average Indian takeaway meal?
Most Indian takeaway meals range between 700 and 1,200 calories, depending on dishes and sides.
Which Indian curry has the fewest calories?
Chicken tikka, tandoori chicken, and vegetable-based tomato curries are among the lowest calorie options.
Is chicken tikka masala high in calories?
Yes, chicken tikka masala is moderately high in calories due to cream and butter, averaging around 500–600 calories per portion.
Is Indian takeaway healthier than Chinese?
It depends on the dish. Grilled Indian dishes are often healthier than fried Chinese options, but creamy curries can be higher in calories.
Final Thoughts:
Understanding how many calories are in Indian takeaway food helps you make informed choices, not give up the food you love. Indian cuisine offers a wide range of dishes, from indulgent treats to lighter, healthier meals.
By choosing wisely, watching portions, and balancing your meals, you can enjoy Indian takeaway as part of a healthy lifestyle in the UK.
Indian food isn’t the problem – it’s how you order it that makes the difference.
