Just Like Nani: 17 Timeless Indian Sides

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Just Like Nani: 17 Timeless Indian Sides

Are you interested in classic Indian side dishes that remind you of grandma’s cooking? This collection brings you 17 traditional side dishes, showing you how to create heartwarming, simple meals that connect you with a rich cultural heritage. Each recipe is detailed with easy-to-follow steps, making it perfect for both new cooks and those with more kitchen experience. Whether for daily meals or special family gatherings, these sides are sure to bring everyone to the table.

A bowl of cooked white rice garnished with cashews, curry leaves, and dried red chilies, displayed on a rustic table setting.
Coconut Rice in Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Egg Fried Rice

A bowl of Egg Fried Rice with green onions, and diced vegetables, served in a speckled ceramic bowl.
Egg Fried Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Ever wanted to bring a bit of traditional comfort home? Our version of Egg Fried Rice pairs beautifully with any primary dish, offering a simple yet hearty side that completes a meal. It’s an excellent way to use up leftover rice and add a cozy touch to your dinner spread. This recipe wraps up the essence of home cooking with a nod to Indian flavors.
Get the Recipe: Egg Fried Rice

Chilli Paneer

Bowl of Chilli Paneer with red bell peppers and onions in a glossy sauce.
Chilli Paneer. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Adding a flavorful twist to your meal, our Chilli Paneer is a must-try for anyone who loves a bit of spice. Perfectly balanced with bold flavors, it’s a comforting side that packs a punch. Serve it alongside your favorite grains or wrapped up in a warm flatbread. This recipe is a delicious way to enjoy homemade Indian cheese with a spicy twist.
Get the Recipe: Chilli Paneer

Vegetable Fried Rice

A bowl of Vegetable Fried Rice with mixed vegetables including carrots, bell peppers, and peas.
Vegetable Fried Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Our Vegetable Fried Rice is a vibrant addition to any table, incorporating a medley of vegetables stirred into hearty rice. It’s quick to make and always a hit among family and friends. This side dish brightens up your meal with color and nutrition, making it a practical choice for busy evenings. Dive into this recipe when you crave something wholesome yet straightforward.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fried Rice

Black Chickpea Sundal/Kadlekalu Usli

A bowl of Kadlekalu Usli salad garnished with coconut and cilantro, served on a green tablecloth.
Black Chickpea Sundal/Kadlekalu Usli. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Our Black Chickpea Sundal brings a taste of South Indian tradition right to your kitchen. This dish is not only nourishing but also full of flavors that remind you of simpler times. It’s ideal for those looking for a protein-rich addition to their meals. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying side at any gathering or as part of your regular meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Black Chickpea Sundal/Kadlekalu Usli

Palak Paneer Stir Fry

A bowl of indian Palak Paneer Stir Fry, featuring cubes of paneer cheese mixed with spiced, cooked spinach and herbs.
Palak Paneer Stir Fry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

If you’re looking to introduce some greens in a creamy, flavorful way, our Palak Paneer Stir Fry does just that. Combining rich paneer with vibrant spinach, this dish is a beloved classic for a reason. It’s both nutritious and indulgent, perfect for dressing up any meal. Plus, it’s a wonderful introduction to spinach for those who are typically hesitant.
Get the Recipe: Palak Paneer Stir Fry

Instant Pot Beetroot Palya

A bowl of diced Beetroot Palya garnished with herbs and sprinkled with salt, served on a dark textured background.
Instant Pot Beetroot Palya. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Our Instant Pot Beetroot Palya is a breeze to prepare and offers a delicious, earthy flavor to your dining experience. Using an Instant Pot means less fuss and more flavor, letting the beetroot truly shine. This dish pairs well with both flatbreads and rice, making it versatile for any meal setting. It’s the perfect way to add some color and nutrition to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beetroot Palya

Curried Roasted Carrots

Curried Roasted Carrots with seasoning, lined up neatly on a white surface.
Curried Roasted Carrots. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Brighten up your mealtime with our Curried Roasted Carrots. This dish brings a touch of exotic flavor to a familiar favorite. Roasting them enhances their natural sweetness, making this side a hit among all age groups. It’s an easy way to bring a bit of spice to your regular vegetable routine.
Get the Recipe: Curried Roasted Carrots

Pan-Fried Plantains

A bowl of Pan-Fried Plantains with fresh herbs.
Pan-Fried Plantains. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

For a slightly sweet and utterly savory side, try our Pan-Fried Plantains. This dish is wonderfully versatile, ideal as a snack or part of a larger meal. The caramelization of the plantains brings out a rich flavor that complements both spicy and mild main courses. It’s a staple recipe that you’ll return to again and again.
Get the Recipe: Pan-Fried Plantains

Bottle Gourd Leaves Stir Fry

A plate of cooked Bottle Gourd Leaves Stir Fry, served in a terracotta dish.
Bottle Gourd Leaves Stir Fry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Bite into the freshness with our Bottle Gourd Leaves Stir Fry, a light yet flavorful side that’s perfect for health-conscious eaters. This dish is quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, making it an excellent addition for anyone wanting to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen. Pair it with a protein-heavy main for a balanced meal. It’s simplicity at its best, inviting you to appreciate the natural tastes of garden-fresh ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Bottle Gourd Leaves Stir Fry

Ladi Pav

Close-up of freshly baked Ladi Pav on a wire rack, some split open to reveal a soft, fluffy interior.
Ladi Pav. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Our Ladi Pav is your go-to option for soft, fluffy bread that complements any meal. These buns are a beloved part of numerous meals across India, perfect for mopping up curries or enjoying with a sweet accompaniment. They’re surprisingly easy to make at home, especially with our straightforward guide. This dish invites warmth and comfort to your table with every batch.
Get the Recipe: Ladi Pav

Bombay Potatoes

A bowl of Bombay Potatoes garnished with herbs, featuring golden potatoes and onions in a rich, spiced sauce.
Bombay Potatoes. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Our Bombay Potatoes will quickly become a household favorite with their bold spices and satisfying texture. This dish has a robust side that can stand alone or enhance any main course. It’s particularly great when you have guests to impress but little time to prepare. These potatoes carry the heartiness of a home-prepared meal with a touch of street-food flair.
Get the Recipe: Bombay Potatoes

Air Fryer Eggplant

Air Fryer Eggplant. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Our Air Fryer Eggplant is a fantastic choice for those seeking a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. This recipe achieves a crispy texture without the excess oil, focusing on the natural flavors of the eggplant. It pairs beautifully with any rice dish or as a standalone snack. Delight in the easy preparation and delicious results of this simple side.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant

Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot

Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot filled with freshly cut cubes of white paneer cheese.
Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Making paneer at home might sound daunting, but our Instant Pot method simplifies the process. This Homemade Paneer is fresh, creamy, and a total game-changer for any Indian dish enthusiast. It’s perfect in stir-fries, as a snack, or in traditional dishes where its mild flavor and soft texture can truly shine. Discover how easy it is to bring this staple dairy product to your table.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot

Instant Pot Jeera Rice

A bowl of cooked Jeera Rice, garnished, presented on a textured grey background.
Instant Pot Jeera Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Our Instant Pot Jeera Rice is a fragrant, fluffy delight, making a perfect companion to any robust curry or as a simple, subtle side. Its aromatic presence lifts the entire eating experience, providing a gentle balance to spicy dishes. This recipe ensures perfect rice every time, with no fuss necessary. It’s a staple dish that deserves a spot in your cooking repertoire.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Jeera Rice

Indian Sweet Potato Cubes

Sweet potato cubes on a plate.
Indian Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Our Indian Sweet Potato Cubes offer a sweet and spicy twist on a classic favorite. This dish is versatile, great as a snack or alongside your main course. The spices bring out the sweetness of the potatoes, making it a hit at any dinner table. It’s a comforting, simple side that’s both satisfying and subtly complex in flavor.
Get the Recipe: Indian Sweet Potato Cubes

Coconut Rice in Instant Pot

A bowl of cooked white rice garnished with cashews, curry leaves, and dried red chilies, displayed on a rustic table setting.
Coconut Rice in Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Our Coconut Rice made in an Instant Pot brings a tropical flair to your meal, infusing each bite with a light, nutty essence. This side is effortless to prepare and pairs beautifully with a range of dishes from spicy to mild. It’s a delicious alternative to plain rice, adding an exotic touch that’s hard to resist. Enjoy the seamless combination of simplicity and taste with this recipe.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Rice in Instant Pot

Indian Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts garnished with lemon wedges on a plate.
Indian Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Give a new life to your greens with our Indian Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. This recipe transforms the humble Brussels sprout with exciting spices, offering a crispy, flavorful edge to a nutritious vegetable. Perfect for those who appreciate a healthy side with a kick of flavor. It’s a quick and easy way to make greens appealing and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Indian Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

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