15 Hearty Mains That Bring Everyone Together

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15 Hearty Mains That Bring Everyone Together

Why stop at one dish when you can have 15 hearty mains that bring everyone together? These meals are the kind that gets folks lingering around the table, chatting, and maybe even grabbing seconds (or thirds). They’re simple, no-nonsense dishes that make family dinners feel like a celebration without the fuss. It’s not just about the food; it’s about those moments when everyone’s too busy enjoying to check their phones.

low angle shot of shredded beef in a bowl with a fork.
Beef Birria. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Biryani

Chicken biryani on a plate with raita.
Chicken Biryani. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

A tap on traditional Indian fare, Chicken Biryani bursts with long-grain rice seasoned with a variety of spices and cooked with marinated chicken. It’s a meal that serves well at large gatherings, embodying a bold taste in every bite. Chicken Biryani can be paired easily with cucumber raita or a squeeze of lemon for an extra kick. This dish marks a celebration on its own, ideal for sharing with family and friends.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani

Dan Dan Noodles

A close-up of twirled dan dan noodles on a fork with herbs and bits of meat.
Dan Dan Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Dan Dan Noodles offer a quick trip to Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold pepper-infused sauce mixed with minced pork over noodles. It’s commonly enjoyed for its simple yet bold contrast of flavors and its quick preparation time making it perfect for weekday dinners. Few dishes bring the warmth and heartiness to the table quite like this dish.
Get the Recipe: Dan Dan Noodles

Camarones a la Diabla

Shrimp in red chile sauce on a white plate with lime wedges and a fork in the background.
Camarones a la Diabla. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bringing a taste of the sea to your table, Camarones a la Diabla are shrimp sautéed in a fiery tomato-based sauce with a hint of chili for those who dare. It’s a popular Mexican dish that’s both vibrant and intense. This dish works great over rice or dipped in tortilla, perfect for those who love a bit of heat. Gather around for a kick of flavors that’s sure to be memorable at any meal.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diabla

Samosas

Low angle shot of a samosa cut in half so that you can see the potato filling inside.
Samosas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Samosas are a beloved Indian appetizer featuring a crispy pastry filled with tangy fillings, typically spiced potatoes, onions, peas, and sometimes ground meat. They are perfect as a snack, starter, or side dish, often accompanied by mint or tamarind chutney. These triangular treats are deep-fried to golden perfection and are a staple at many celebrations. Samosas offer a crunchy, comforting bite at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Samosas

Gochujang Noodles

Low angle shot of gochujang noodles with greens, mushrooms, and cheese on a grey and white plate.
Gochujang Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This recipe weave together traditional Korean flavors through thick, chewy noodles coated in a spicy, slightly sweet sauce. Ideal for those who appreciate a balance of spice and sweet, it pairs well with vegetables and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Gochujang Noodles bring a punch of intense and enjoyable heat to the dining table.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Noodles

Char Siu

Sliced char siu pork with lettuce leaves.
Char Siu. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Char Siu is a type of Cantonese roasted pork characterized by its shiny, red exterior and sweet marinade. This roast is often sliced and served with steamed buns, rice, or noodles, making it versatile for different meal types. The unique flavor comes from a mixture of honey, five-spice powder, red fermented bean curd, and soy sauce. It’s a sumptuous option for anyone looking to indulge in rich, meaty flavors.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu

Chicken Pakora

Low angle shot of chicken pakora on a plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Pakora. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

In the dish Chicken Pakora, tender pieces of chicken are marinated, dipped in gram flour batter, and deep-fried until crispy. This popular Indian snack is known for its crunchy exterior and juicy interior. It’s usually enjoyed with a side of green chutney or sweet tamarind sauce, enhancing the total snack experience. It’s a perfect party dish that’s both filling and irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pakora

Pork Fried Rice

Pork fried rice in a blue and white striped bowl.
Pork Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Pork Fried Rice is a staple in Chinese cuisine, featuring rice stir-fried with pieces of pork, eggs, peas, carrots, and sometimes green onions. It is a flexible dish, often made with leftover rice and adaptable to include whatever vegetables you have on hand. It serves as a great meal on its own or as a compliment to other Chinese dishes. This dish is a go-to for an easy, filling meal any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice

Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Lamb kofta kebabs on a wooden board with  fresh herbs and vegetables.
Lamb Kofta Kebabs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

These kebabs consist of ground lamb mixed with spices and herbs, formed into balls or cylinders, and grilled to perfection. They are typically enjoyed with pita bread, yogurt, or fresh salads. Lamb Kofta Kebabs are a common sight at barbeques and family dinners, appreciated for their robust flavor and juiciness. This dish offer a flavorful escape to Middle Eastern cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Thai Larb

Low angle shot of a striped bowl filled with Thai larb salad garnished with shallot slices.
Thai Larb. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Thai Larb is a meat salad common in Northeastern Thailand, made with ground pork or chicken, lime juice, chili, and fresh herbs. It’s celebrated for its combination of sour, spicy, and tangy notes, along with a refreshing crunch from roasted rice powder. It’s often served with lettuce leaves or cabbage, making it a light yet deeply fulfilling meal. This dish invites you to a refreshing taste of Thai flavors in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Thai Larb

Kung Pao Chicken

Low angle shot of a bowl of kung pao chicken.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Kung Pao Chicken features stir-fried chicken mixed with peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers in a succulent sauce. This popular Chinese dish strikes a balance between sweet and spicy elements, occasionally heightened with a dash of Szechuan peppercorns. It’s commonly served with steamed rice and is celebrated in both Western and Chinese kitchens. It’s a dynamic dish that keeps diners coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Jewish Brisket

Low angle shot of sliced brisket on a white platter with dried apricots and salt in the background.
Jewish Brisket. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This dish is slow-cooked, which brings out a tender texture and rich taste in every slice. Often served during special occasions and holidays, making it a hearty centerpiece at Jewish festive meals. Seasoned simply with onions, garlic, and other spices, its flavors are enjoyed by all age groups. Jewish Brisket is a classic dish that promises comfort in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Jewish Brisket

Tom Kha Gai

A bowl of soup garnished with cilantro, lime, and chili slices, with a person taking a spoonful.
Tom Kha Gai. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

In Tom Kha Gai, chicken swims in a coconut milk broth infused with galangal, lemongrass, and lime leaves, providing a hot soup that’s both spicy and soothing. It’s a staple in Thai cuisine, loved for its creamy texture and complex aroma. This dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a light yet flavorful soup. This traditional soup is a warm invitation to enjoy Thai hospitality at your own dining table.
Get the Recipe: Tom Kha Gai

Beef Birria

low angle shot of shredded beef in a bowl with a fork.
Beef Birria. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Known for its layers of complex flavors, Beef Birria is a Mexican stew made from beef, slowly simmered in a robust, spice-infused broth. Often served with corn tortillas and a side of lime, onions, and cilantro, it’s a dish that encourages active participation as you assemble each bite. This comforting stew is typically enjoyed during festive occasions but has become increasingly popular as a casual treat.
Get the Recipe: Beef Birria

Gochujang Noodles with Bacon and Eggs

A person uses chopsticks to lift a portion of Gochujang noodles with crispy bacon and two sunny-side-up eggs from a skillet.
Gochujang Noodles with Bacon and Eggs. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

Gochujang Noodles with Bacon and Eggs blend traditional Korean elements with Western touches, creating a unique dish. This inventive meal includes smoky bacon and a sunny-side-up egg on top of noodles tossed in a tangy gochujang-based sauce. It provides a hearty meal that’s perfect for any time of day and is particularly appealing to those who enjoy a spicy kick.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Noodles with Bacon and Eggs

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