Inside the Kitchen: How We Make Our Signature Karahi’s

Karahi's (also known as  Kadai ) form a cornerstone of South Asian cuisine, referring both to a popular, flavour-packed curry and the wok-like, deep, circular cooking pot used to make it. Packed with rich, aromatic spices, fresh tomatoes, ginger, and green chilies, chefs typically serve karahi curry with naan or steamed rice.

The karahi pot itself is traditionally made from cast iron or steel and resembles a wok, though it usually has steeper sides, which chefs use to fry, sauté, and stew curries. By combining authentic cookware with bold ingredients, chefs create karahi dishes with their signature depth of flavour and vibrant aroma.

Fresh Ingredients, Bold Flavours

At Zouk Tea Bar & Grill, our signature karahi's are more than just a dish—they showcase authentic Pakistani and Indian cooking techniques, bold flavours, and fresh ingredients. In this guide on how we make our signature karahi's, you’ll discover the care, skill, and fresh ingredients that go into every pan. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a loyal guest, learning our process shows why this iconic dish is so beloved.

Chefs start each karahi with carefully selected, fresh ingredients. They pair tender cuts of chicken, lamb, or paneer with a vibrant mix of tomatoes, onions, garlic, and ginger. Next, they add a blend of aromatic spices, including cumin, coriander, and garam masala, to build a rich, flavourful base that defines the dish.

Cooking with Precision

Inside the Kitchen: How We Make Our Signature Karahi's begins with a focus on technique, which is the key to a perfect karahi. To start, our chefs cook the ingredients over high heat in traditional karahi pans, stirring constantly to lock in the flavours while also achieving the ideal balance between tender meat and a thick, aromatic sauce. As a result, every bite bursts with spice, smokiness, and depth.

Once the chefs finish cooking the karahi, they add fresh herbs and drizzle ghee or butter, further enhancing the richness of the dish. Served straight from the pan, each karahi delivers a bold, indulgent experience, making it perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a hearty, satisfying meal.

At Zouk, our team combines authentic techniques, fresh ingredients, and bold flavours to create signature karahi's that consistently impress guests. Ultimately, the dish embodies the heart of Pakistani and Indian cooking—spicy, aromatic, and crafted with care—which is why it remains a must-try for anyone visiting Manchester.

Inside Zouk’s Kitchen: Learn to Make Our Signature Karahi's

Step behind the scenes at Zouk Tea Bar & Grill and discover the secrets of our signature karahi's in an immersive hands-on cooking class. Perfect for food lovers, aspiring chefs, or anyone eager to master authentic Pakistani and Indian flavours, this class carefully guides you through every step—from selecting fresh ingredients and then balancing aromatic spices, to finally cooking in a traditional karahi pan.

Throughout the class, under the guidance of our experienced chefs, you’ll practice techniques that bring out the bold, smoky, and rich flavours Zouk is known for, while simultaneously learning tips to prepare the perfect curry at home. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this interactive experience seamlessly combines education, fun, and delicious results. By the end of the class, you’ll not only create your own signature karahi but also gain the skills and confidence to recreate it for friends and family, ensuring a memorable and rewarding culinary experience.

Useful Links

Learn more about our 2026 Cooking Classes. not sue if the class is right for you? Don't take our word for it check out this review.

Read about Zouk’s Food and restaurant in the local media 

Explore our Recipe Blog for step-by-step dishes like our Turmeric Rice