When you make the transition to a plant-based diet, you soon discover that ethnic restaurants offer the most vegetarian and vegan options. I have tried many different cuisines over the years and have discovered some new favorite dishes I had never been exposed to as a carnivore. If you are just toying with the idea of switching to a healthier lifestyle, then Indian food is a great place to start. It is a favorite of mine. There are so many plant-based dishes on The Clay Oven’s menu, and most can easily be tweaked to accommodate your dietary preferences if you consult your server.
The Clay Oven, an unassuming establishment in a small strip mall along The Golden Mile, is one restaurant we have found that checks all the boxes. The restaurant offers the finest Indian-Nepalese Cuisine in a casual atmosphere, and the food is always delicious. One thing that surprised me when we began to venture into Indian cuisine is the variety of spices used in their recipes. The spicy flavors are something that differs quite a bit from what the typical American is used to, but be brave. I find the unique flavors delightful.
Indian food is notoriously hot. The one thing you should inquire about is how hot (spicy hot) some recipes are. I like to taste just a little bit of hotness, and my primary rule about any meal is “food should not hurt.” I do not enjoy food that burns your mouth and throat so much that you cannot carry on a conversation at the table because you are coughing, eyes watering, and blowing your nose so much that speech is impossible. At the Clay Oven this is not an issue, If you inform your server, they will tell the chef how you would like it prepared. This restaurant listens (some don’t). On a hotness meter, from 1 to 10, I always say I am a 2 (not very spicy) and I’m never disappointed. My husband, who loves spicy food, never gives them any instruction and has several favorite entrees he usually orders so he can compare with other restaurants. This time he ordered Aloo Mattar. Don’t forget to order some Naan. I have recently fallen in love with the Kashmiri Naan. My husband prefers the Garlic Naan. . . also a favorite of mine. The Clay Oven checks all our boxes.
At The Clay Oven the food is always delicious, service is attentive, the simple diningroom is always clean, and prices are reasonable. Take out and catering are also available. We saw several orders being picked up while we were eating. I always leave with enough leftovers for another meal, and I must confess that because of my absentmindedness, this photo shows my full plate of leftovers the next day. This is Mattar Paneer with Kashmiri Naan (sweet Indian bread stuffed with raisins, nuts and coconut).
For dessert I ordered Gaajar Halwa, a carrot pudding. Yummy!
I highly recommend this unassuming little restaurant for lunch or dinner. You won’t be disappointed.
Aloo Mattar with Garlic Naan
Vegtutor's Weblog 