Mama Masala's curry takes the silver at Irish Curry Awards in Belfast

Mama Masala in Derry took home the silver award for Best Takeaway in Ulster at the Irish Curry Awards at the Crowne Plaza, Shaw’s Bridge this week.

An estimated 700 curry houses operate successfully between Ballyferriter in Kerry and Ballycastle in Antrim. These awards were created by Belfast-based restaurateur Askir Ali to recognise the contribution made to Ireland’s food scene by hundreds of Indian, Bangladeshi, Pakistani and other Asian chefs, restaurant workers and managers.

Speaking on the success of the event, Founder Askir Ali said: “Curry may have been born in India, but it has grown and matured across Ireland. The Irish Curry Awards are recognition of that.

“I was really surprised and thrilled to see the level of support that was out there for the Irish Curry Awards."

UTV’s own Pamela Ballentine oversaw hosting duties for the glamourous event, allocating awards which covered a wide range of categories including Best Chef, Best Restaurant and Best Newcomer, among others.

The judges, made up of esteemed food critics and journalists, had the enviable job of testing out the delicious food to decide who would triumph on the night.

A total of nine other Asian eateries restaurants in Ulster, alongside Mama Masala, Derry, won either gold or silver on the night. Gold winners include: Tulsi in Holywood, Best Newcomer; Best Young Chef, Bangla, Bangor; Best Front of House, Indian Ocean, Glengormley; Best Chef, Spice, Lisburn; Best Takeaway, Asha, Bangor; and both Nu Delhi and Bangla received Gold for Best Restaurant in Ulster.