The Art of Indian Accompaniments - Big Flavors in Small Sides

A good Indian meal is seldom just about the main dish. Often, there’s something else on the table to tie the whole meal together, whether it’s a bowl of curry, a plate of biryani or freshly baked naan. It could be a crisp papad, a cold serving of raita, or a spoonful of sweet mango chutney. They may occupy only a small portion of the plate, but these accompaniments can really make a difference to the overall dining experience. Dishes of India’s menu follows the traditional Indian custom of serving the main courses with familiar side dishes. Each has its own flavor and texture, offering diners the opportunity to counterbalance more intense, spicy or more heavily seasoned foods with something complementary.

The Role Of Side Dishes In Indian Cooking

Indian food combines many different spices, cooking methods and regional traditions. Some are creamy and rich, some smoky or spicy, and many have layers of herbs and aromatic seasonings. Accompaniments are meant to complement these flavors, not compete with them. A cooling yogurt dish can take the edge off a spicy dish, while a tangy relish can awaken the palate between spoonfuls of seasoned lentils or rice.

Papad - A Crunchy Start to the Meal

Papad or papadum is a thin cracker, usually made from lentil flour or other pulses. It is often roasted or fried to a crisp, providing a light, crunchy texture that contrasts with softer foods. At Dishes of India, papad is described as “grilled lentil wafers.” It's crisp and easy to put on the table, either as an appetizer or with a meal. The beauty of the papad is in its simplicity. A bite is a dry, crunchy accompaniment to moist curries, rice and other dishes. It is also served with chutneys or other sides, which allows the flavors to work with each other. Papad is quite light in texture and can add variety without weighing down the meal. For diners who want different textures on the same plate, it’s a small addition that serves a clear purpose.

Raita - A Cool Counterpoint To Spicy Dishes

Raita is a yogurt based accompaniment which is generally served with Indian meals. Raita Indian dish of a creamy consistency and fresh mild flavor made with yogurt and slightly spiced crushed cucumbers. It is particularly present when paired with spicy curries, seasoned rice or grilled dishes. The yogurt is cool against the warm spices, and the cucumber is fresh. The result is an accompaniment to help balance stronger tastes without dominating the main dish. Raita also adds a softer texture to a dish. But it is a different experience when eaten with biryani or a spicy curry than when eaten alone. One spoonful can offer a little relief from the heat of the seasoning, but the original flavors will still be there. For diners who like bold Indian food but want a little balance between bites, raita is a useful addition to the meal.

Mango Chutney - Sweet with a Tangy Twist

Mango chutney adds another dimension to Indian dining. It is made with mango and seasonings, and generally has a sweet and tangy flavor, though the flavor will depend on the recipe. Homemade mango chutney is served with selected dishes as a sweet accompaniment. Its flavor can make an especially good contrast with savory appetizers, grilled foods and spiced dishes. What chutney does so well is to provide contrast. A spoonful of something sweet and sour can change the flavor of a savory bite, making the combination more interesting. The sweetness can add another dimension of flavor rather than mask the spices. Mango chutney is also versatile. The diner can have a small amount along with his food and vary the combination as he likes.

Whether you are joining us for dining in Alexandria, ordering takeout, or sampling our lunch buffet, taking advantage of these classic sides will elevate your entire culinary journey. Explore our full selection of traditional accompaniments on our menu and experience the balance that authentic Indian dining was created to provide.