Finding gluten-free food at an Indian restaurant usually means checking carefully, since naan, roti and many snacks are wheat-based. South Indian cooking works differently – its everyday staples are rice and lentils rather than wheat, which puts a lot more of the menu within reach if you're avoiding gluten.
Why South Indian food has more gluten-free options
Where North Indian menus lean on wheat breads as the default accompaniment, Kerala and South Indian cooking is built around rice. Dosa and idli batter is made from fermented rice and urad dal (black gram) with no wheat flour involved, and most curries are thickened with vegetables, lentils or coconut rather than a roux.
What's naturally gluten-free at Herb
- Dosa – rice-and-lentil batter, naturally free of wheat.
- Idli – steamed rice cakes, same batter family as dosa.
- Rice-based dishes – including most of the thali components.
- Coconut-based curries like avial – no flour used as a thickener.
What to check before ordering
Some snacks and a few specific dishes do use wheat flour, so it's worth asking your server if you're unsure about a particular item rather than assuming everything qualifies. If you have coeliac disease or a serious gluten intolerance, mention it when you order so the kitchen can take extra care with preparation and avoid cross-contact with wheat-based items prepared nearby.
Combining gluten-free with vegan
A lot of the naturally gluten-free dishes at Herb are also vegan, since both categories lean on the same rice, lentil and coconut base rather than dairy or wheat. See our guide to the best vegan dishes at Herb for dishes that typically cover both.
Available at both branches
These options are on the menu at both Herb Leicester and Herb Leamington Spa – just flag your requirements to your server when you arrive.
FAQ
Does Herb Restaurant have gluten-free options?
Yes. A lot of South Indian and Kerala cooking is naturally built around rice and lentils rather than wheat, so many dishes on our menu at both Leicester and Leamington Spa are naturally gluten-free.
Which dishes should I avoid if I need gluten-free food?
Some breads and snacks use wheat flour, so it is worth checking with our team before ordering those. Rice-based dishes, dosa, idli, and most curries are safe starting points.
Can I tell the kitchen about a gluten intolerance?
Yes, please let your server know about any gluten intolerance or coeliac requirement when you order, so the kitchen can take extra care with preparation.
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Authentic vegetarian and vegan South Indian & Kerala food in Leicester and Leamington Spa.
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