Curry nights are about to get a whole lot spicier with these 15 Indian sides. Each recipe is designed to complement your main course and take your dining experience to the next level—like sidekicks stealing the spotlight. Prepare to be amazed as these sides turn a regular curry night into something extraordinary. These Indian sides will blow your mind and maybe even make you forget about the main dish… but don’t tell the curry!
Air Fryer Eggplant
If you’re looking to shake up your side dishes, consider trying eggplants in your air fryer. They turn out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside — perfect for when you crave something different. Air Fryer Eggplant is a surprisingly simple way to complement your curry night. Plus, it’s healthier than traditional deep frying, making it a smart choice for those watching their oil intake.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant
Palak Paneer Stir Fry
Adding greens to your meal doesn’t have to be boring. Mix it up with a quick stir fry, pairing spinach with creamy paneer cheese; it’s an effortless yet flavorful side. Our Palak Paneer Stir Fry is a classic that brings a richness to any spread. It’s a dish that speaks for itself, blending well with various curries and bread.
Get the Recipe: Palak Paneer Stir Fry
Gujarati Kadhi
For a touch of comfort, a bowl of this smooth and tangy yogurt-based sauce works wonders. It’s a traditional Gujarati dish that’s as soothing as it is flavorful. Gujarati Kadhi goes great with fluffy rice or as a soup to start your meal. It’s a heartwarming addition to any table, promising to warm you up from the inside.
Get the Recipe: Gujarati Kadhi
Instant Pot Beetroot Palya
Don’t knock beetroots till you’ve tried them in an Instant Pot. They cook up quickly, giving you more time to enjoy your evening. Instant Pot Beetroot Palya offers a vibrant color and a sweet, earthy flavor that stands out among other sides. It’s a sure way to add a pop to your plate and bring a smile to your face.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beetroot Palya
Naan Recipe
Between scooping up sauces and wrapping around morsels, who doesn’t love a good piece of bread? Make your own to see just how fulfilling it can be. With a homemade Naan Recipe, you get fluffy, warm bread that’s up for any dipping challenge. It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser that can make any curry night feel more authentic.
Get the Recipe: Naan Recipe
Red Rice
Swap out your usual rice for something a bit more adventurous. A side of Red Rice brings not only color but also a nutty flavor to your feast. It pairs beautifully with robust curries, rounding out your meal with its distinctive taste. Plus, it’s a simple change that can make a big impact on your dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Red Rice
Bharwa Bhindi
Okra like you’ve never had before — stuffed and full of flavor, it’s a dish that often surprises diners. Bharwa Bhindi might just become your new go-to side, offering a nice texture contrast to your meal. It’s a unique dish that’s not only filling but also packed with flavor, earning its place at the dinner table. And it’s a conversation starter — perfect for dinners with friends.
Get the Recipe: Bharwa Bhindi
Coconut Rice in Instant Pot
Imagine infusing your rice with the creamy taste of coconut; it’s easier than you might think. With an Instant Pot, Coconut Rice becomes a hassle-free side that everyone will be reaching for seconds of. It’s slightly sweet, rich, and a delicious complement to spicy dishes. If you’re up for a taste of tropical flair, this side’s for you.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Rice in Instant Pot
Ladi Pav
Bring a bit of Mumbai street food into your kitchen with soft, buttery bread rolls. They’re not just for snacks; Ladi Pav makes for a great side to mop up curries and gravies. Freshly baked and warm, they’re irresistible right out of the oven. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your guests will be impressed with these homemade buns.
Get the Recipe: Ladi Pav
Mango Dal
Lentils are a staple, but have you tried them with a fruity twist? Mango Dal combines the hearty legumes with sweet mango, offering a truly unique side dish. It’s a combination that complements spicy entrees wonderfully, balancing heat with a hint of sweetness. Don’t be surprised if this side becomes the star of your curry night.
Get the Recipe: Mango Dal
Bottle Gourd Leaves Stir Fry
Bring something different to the table with a green that might be new to many. Bottle Gourd Leaves Stir Fry is a quick and easy side that adds a burst of green to your meal. Not only does it look good, but its mild taste also compliments spicier dishes. Give this side a try for a refreshing change of pace.
Get the Recipe: Bottle Gourd Leaves Stir Fry
Basmati Rice
Sometimes, it’s the simplest things that work the best. A fluffy bowl of Basmati Rice serves as the perfect base for any curry. Its long grains and fragrant aroma make it a must-have at any Indian-inspired dinner. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be paired with just about any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Basmati Rice
Bombay Potatoes
Who doesn’t love potatoes? Especially when they’re spiced up and cooked until just right. Bombay Potatoes are a comforting side that brings warmth and heartiness to any meal. They’re simple, but don’t let that fool you — they pack a punch that can stand up to any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Bombay Potatoes
Pan-Fried Plantains
Add a touch of sweetness to your savory spread with a side that’s commonly seen in different cuisines around the world. Pan-Fried Plantains offer a caramelized exterior with a soft, sweet interior. They work as a great counterbalance to the spices of Indian curries. Plus, they’re so easy to make, you might just find them becoming a regular on your menu.
Get the Recipe: Pan-Fried Plantains
Black Chickpea Sundal/Kadlekalu Usli
Flip the script on your usual chickpea dish with a South Indian twist. Black Chickpea Sundal/Kadlekalu Usli is not only nutritious but also packed with flavors that stand out. It’s a refreshing side, and with its quick preparation, you won’t miss any of the fun. This dish is a brilliant way to add some protein and fiber to your feast.
Get the Recipe: Black Chickpea Sundal/Kadlekalu Usli