Top 8 Indian side dishes for white rice: Indian gastronomy exemplifies how the harmonization of diverse aromas, tastes, and textures can result in a delectable and unparalleled entrée. Salads, chutneys, pickles, and curries are some of the common Indian side dishes served with white rice.
Depending on the ingredients, these dishes may have a savory or sweet flavor. They possess the capacity to elevate an ordinary serving of plain white rice to an exceptional state. In the realm of Indian side dishes, the variety is virtually infinite.
Regarding their complementarity with white rice, we were particularly impressed by a few side dishes. The following are our eight preferred Indian side dishes to complement your white rice.
Sambar:
Sambar, an iconic South Indian entrée composed of tamarind broth and vegetables, serves as an ideal complement to white rice.
Rasam:
Rasam, an additional well-liked South Indian delicacy, is prepared utilizing an assortment of spices in addition to tomatoes. It is an ideal method for imparting flavor to white rice.
Dal:
This North Indian side dish is prepared by tempering cooked dal with sautéed onions and tomatoes, in addition to garam masala, which imparts a mystical flavor. This is a national comfort food for a great number of individuals.
In addition to these three common and straightforward side dishes, we have compiled eight Indian side dishes that are sure to make you salivate while eating white rice.
We have ensured that all individuals are provided with vegetarian and non-vegetarian alternatives.
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Poondu Milagu Kulambu
Tulambu Poondu Milagu Kulambu is a flavorful and uncomplicated Tamil dish prepared with black pepper and garlic. Although white rice is the typical accompaniment, idli and dosa are also acceptable. Typically, it is prepared in the winter due to the medicinal attributes it possesses.
This kulambu is incredibly simple to prepare and requires a few ingredients. Garlic is chopped and initially sautéed with spices and oil until it becomes tender. Following this, water, tamarind paste, sambar powder, and salt to taste are added to the pan. Black pepper powder is added to the kulambu, which is reduced to nearly half its volume before being garnished with curry leaves.
Poondu Milagu Kulambu is most appetizing when it is current and heated. Applam or any other vegetable poriyal can accompany it. Simply place the leftovers in an airtight container and chill them for three to four days. Reheat before consuming.
Aviyal
Aviyal, a traditional South Indian fare, consists of an assortment of vegetables and yogurt. Although it is commonly accompanied by rice as a side dish, it can also be savored alone or with adai.
The Tamil word for “mixture” or “medley” derives from the word aviyal. Therefore, this dish exemplifies the wide range of flavors found in South Indian gastronomy. A thick gravy is prepared by combining vegetables such as eggplant, pumpkin, drumstick, carrots, potatoes, and beans (although any seasonal vegetable may be utilized for this preparation). The gravy is composed of coconut and yogurt. A flavorful and hearty dish is the result, which is certain to satisfy.
Aviyal is certain to please, whether you are seeking a novel side dish to complement your rice or simply desire to savor a delectable and nutritious vegetarian meal.
Keerai masiyal
Keerai masiyal, which consists of dal and spinach, is a straightforward yet delectable dish. It is suitable for both serving as a side dish and a main course. To prepare keerai masiyal, soften the dal in boiling water before proceeding. Cook the spinach for an additional five minutes. Incorporate the oil-sauted tomatoes, green peppers, garlic, and onions into the spinach and dal mixture. Incorporate pepper and salt to taste. Serve alongside hot white rice.
Pudina thogayal
A South Indian side dish, pudina thogayal, is composed of chili peppers, tamarind, and mint leaves. White rice traditionally goes with it.
Before preparing pudina thogayal, one must sauté urad dal, chana dal, red chilies, and green chilies. Cook for a few minutes after incorporating tamarind and cleaned mint leaves, which have turned golden in hue. The ingredients are then blended or ground into a paste with a mortar and pestle.
Serve pudina thogayal unaccompanied or accompanied by white rice and additional condiments, including pickles or applam. Pudina thogayal is an effortless and expeditious side dish that can be prepared in a mere ten minutes.
Kadhi pakora
Known as “pakora kadhi” or “kadhi pakora,” this delectable Punjabi side dish is composed of chickpea flour, yogurt, and spices. The dish comprises a yogurt-based curry, which is typically seasoned with turmeric and cumin. Fryer fritters, which are composed of gram flour (besan), are added to the curry and allowed to simmer. When accompanied by rice, khichdi, or flatbreads such as chapati or naan, the dish is served hot or warm.
Egg pepper masala
White rice pairs well with the delectable South Indian side dish, egg pepper masala. It is prepared by sautéing eggs, peppers, onions, and spices, and depending on your preference, it can be either mild or spicy. Although traditionally served with rice, you can also enjoy this dish with appam, dosa, or roti.
Chettinad Chicken masala
The origin of this chicken masala is in the Chettinad region of the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. A variety of whole and ground spices, including chili peppers, coriander, cumin, fennel seeds, fenugreek, and black pepper, contribute to the dish’s renowned spiciness.
Chettinad chicken masala is commonly prepared utilizing chicken legs or thighs; however, boneless chicken breasts may also be substituted. Add curry leaves as a garnish; curry leaves are an essential spice in Chettinad cuisine. Complement this dish with uncooked rice. This side dish pairs well with appam, dosa, and idli.
Goan Fish curry
Goan fish curry, a culinary institution in Goa, is a zesty and piquant fish curry prepared with a combination of warm spices, coconut milk, ginger-garlic paste, and tamarind pulp. Although steamed rice is the traditional accompaniment, chapati or naan, is also delicious with this fish curry.
To prepare Goan fish curry, commence by immersing the fish in a solution comprising vinegar, turmeric powder, and salt. Fry the onions in a pan over low heat, just until they begin to brown. Subsequently, incorporate the spice powders—coriander, cumin, red chili powder, and garam masala—into the ginger-garlic paste. Before adding the tomatoes, tamarind pulp, and coconut milk, fry for a few minutes.
Simmer the sauce for approximately ten minutes, or until it thickens. After adding the fish to the sauce, simmer for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until cooked through. Serve with Indian flatbreads or steamed rice, garnished with coriander leaves.
Preparing white rice
Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear to produce white rice. After draining the rice, combine it with 2 cups of water per cup of rice in a saucepan. Reduce from high heat to low and simmer, covered, for 10 to 15 minutes after bringing to a boil. Ten minutes later, remove from heat and allow to cool while covered. After fluffing with a fork, proceed to serve.
Rice can also be prepared using a pressure cooker. Before cooking, rinse and strain the rice and soak it for 30 minutes (this is not required; soaking the rice softens it and accelerates the cooking process). Combine the rice and water in a vessel in a proportion of 1:3 or 1:2.
The exact amount of water required is dependent on the variety of rice you have; therefore, it may take several attempts to obtain the proper amount. Maintain the vessel inside the pressure cooker while covering it; then, shut off the cooker and maintain it on high heat.
When steam begins to emerge, position the weight. Cook the item until three whistles sound. Allow the pressure to diminish. It is dangerous to attempt to open the lid immediately; instead, wait 15 to 20 minutes. Failure to do so may result in accidents. Your white rice, cooked to perfection, will be ready.
To conclude,
Indian white rice side dishes provide a delectable way to appreciate the staple grain. These eight sides are flavorful, and straightforward and will add variety to your meals. Varying in intensity from the Chettinad chicken masala to kadhi and aviyal, this compilation of curries offers a selection that will gratify the palates of all individuals. By experimenting with various combinations, you can elevate your experience with white rice.
