Portuguese is the source not only of tempura, the name of a Japanese seafood dish, but also of vindaloo, the name of a hot curry dish originating in India. This Indian dish—made of meat in a sauce of wine and garlic—is called in Portuguese vin d’alho, deriving from vinho, meaning wine, and alho, meaning garlic. English colonists were introduced to the dish in India, and borrowed its name in the late nineteenth century.
This is a meat dish that originates from the Indian state of Goa and is known for its bold and spicy flavor. The dish is typically made by marinating meat, often pork or chicken, in a paste made from a combination of vinegar, garlic, onions, and spices. This paste, which is sometimes referred to as vindaloo paste, is a key component of the dish and gives it its distinctive flavor and aroma. The spices used in the paste can vary, but often include cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder, among others. After marinating the meat in the paste for several hours or overnight, it is then cooked in a pan with additional spices and sometimes potatoes, until the meat is tender and flavorful. The resulting dish is rich, tangy, and spicy, with a complex flavor profile that reflects the cultural influences of Portuguese and Indian cuisine. It is often served with rice or naan bread and is a popular dish in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine.