Are you looking for the perfect side dish to complement your butter chicken? Look no further! Butter chicken is a popular Indian dish that is creamy, flavorful, and pairs well with a variety of sides. Whether you prefer rice, vegetables, or bread, there are plenty of options to choose from that will enhance the flavors of your butter chicken.
One classic side dish to serve with butter chicken is basmati rice. The long-grain rice is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and adding texture to the dish. You can also try lemon rice for a tangy twist or curried potatoes for a spicier option. If you’re looking for something refreshing, cucumber raita or a kachumber salad are great choices.
Traditional Indian Sides
When it comes to serving butter chicken, traditional Indian sides are the perfect accompaniment to this classic dish. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Naan
Naan is a type of Indian bread that is typically served with butter chicken. It is a soft, fluffy bread that is made with flour, yeast, and water. The dough is then stretched and cooked in a tandoor oven until it is golden brown and crispy on the outside, and soft and chewy on the inside. Naan is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce of the butter chicken.
Basmati Rice
Basmati rice is a type of long-grain rice that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It is known for its fragrant aroma and nutty flavor, and it is the perfect side dish to serve with butter chicken. Basmati rice is cooked with a combination of water, salt, and ghee (clarified butter), which gives it a rich and buttery flavor.
Roti
Roti is another type of Indian bread that is similar to naan, but it is thinner and less fluffy. It is made with whole wheat flour and water, and it is cooked on a hot griddle until it is lightly browned on both sides. Roti is perfect for dipping into the sauce of the butter chicken, and it is also a great option for those who prefer a lighter bread.
Overall, these traditional Indian sides are the perfect complement to butter chicken. Whether you prefer naan, basmati rice, or roti, you can’t go wrong with any of these classic dishes.
Vegetable Accompaniments
When it comes to serving butter chicken, adding vegetable dishes to your menu can help balance out the richness of the main dish. Here are some delicious vegetable accompaniments to consider:
Saag (Spinach)
Saag is a popular Indian dish made with spinach and other leafy greens. It’s a great side dish to serve with butter chicken because it adds a fresh, green flavor to the meal. The dish is typically made with a mix of spinach, mustard greens, and other leafy greens, along with spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Saag can be served as a thick, creamy puree or as a chunky, stew-like dish.
Paneer Dishes
Paneer is a type of Indian cheese that is similar in texture to tofu. It’s a great vegetarian option that pairs well with butter chicken. Paneer can be served in a variety of ways, including as a curry, in a tomato-based sauce, or as a fried appetizer. Some popular paneer dishes to consider include paneer tikka masala, paneer makhani, and paneer bhurji.
Chana Masala
Chana masala is a spicy chickpea dish that is commonly served as a side dish in Indian cuisine. It’s a great accompaniment to butter chicken because it adds a hearty, protein-rich element to the meal. Chana masala is typically made with chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices that includes cumin, coriander, and garam masala. It can be served as a thick, stew-like dish or as a drier, saucier curry.
Incorporating these vegetable accompaniments into your butter chicken meal can help create a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.
Salads and Raitas
If you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish to complement the rich and flavorful butter chicken, then salads and raitas are the perfect choice. Here are two great options to consider:
Cucumber Raita
Cucumber raita is a classic Indian side dish that pairs perfectly with butter chicken. It’s made with yogurt, cucumber, and a variety of spices, and it’s incredibly easy to make. Simply mix together some plain yogurt, grated cucumber, chopped mint, cumin powder, and salt, and you’re done! The cool and creamy texture of the raita helps to balance out the spiciness of the butter chicken, while the mint and cumin add a burst of flavor.
Kachumber Salad
Kachumber salad is another great option to consider. It’s a simple salad made with chopped cucumber, tomato, onion, and cilantro, and it’s dressed with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This salad is light, refreshing, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect complement to the rich and creamy butter chicken. Plus, the fresh vegetables in the salad help to balance out the heaviness of the dish.
Overall, both cucumber raita and kachumber salad are great options to consider when serving butter chicken. They’re both easy to make, refreshing, and packed with flavor, making them the perfect complement to this classic Indian dish.
Additional Pairings
If you’re looking to add more flavors to your butter chicken, try pairing it with some pickles and chutneys. These condiments can add a tangy and spicy kick to your meal. You can find a variety of pickles and chutneys in Indian grocery stores or make your own at home. Here are some popular options:
Pickles and Chutneys
- Mango Pickle: Made with raw mangoes, this pickle is tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet. It can be a great accompaniment to butter chicken as it cuts through the richness of the dish.
- Mint Chutney: Made with fresh mint leaves, this chutney is refreshing and cooling. It can be a great palate cleanser between bites of butter chicken.
- Tamarind Chutney: Made with tamarind pulp, this chutney is sweet, sour, and tangy. It can add a depth of flavor to your butter chicken.
- Onion Pickle: Made with thinly sliced onions, this pickle is spicy and crunchy. It can add a textural contrast to your butter chicken.
Papadums
Papadums are thin and crispy Indian crackers made with lentil flour. They can be a great addition to your butter chicken meal as they provide a crunchy texture. You can find papadums in Indian grocery stores or online. Here are some ways to enjoy papadums with your butter chicken:
- Plain Papadums: These papadums are lightly salted and can be served as a side dish or as a snack.
- Masala Papadums: These papadums are flavored with spices such as cumin, coriander, and chili powder. They can add an extra layer of flavor to your butter chicken.
- Papadum Chaat: This is a popular Indian street food where papadums are topped with chopped onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and chutneys. You can try making this at home and serve it as a starter or appetizer before your butter chicken meal.
Try these additional pairings to elevate your butter chicken meal and enjoy a variety of flavors and textures.
