Roti is a staple food in many parts of the world, from India to the Caribbean. Traditionally, roti is a type of flatbread made from whole wheat flour, water, and salt, and it’s often served with a variety of accompaniments. But what exactly goes with roti?
From curries to chutneys, there are many delicious options to pair with roti. Depending on your region, you may have different preferences for how to serve this versatile dish. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some popular and tasty options for what to serve with roti. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some new meal ideas, we hope this guide will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen!
Traditional Indian Dishes to Pair with Roti
When it comes to traditional Indian cuisine, roti is one of the most common elements on the plate. This unleavened flatbread is made from whole wheat flour, and is a staple in most Indian households. If you are wondering what to pair with roti, here are some traditional Indian dishes that make for a perfect match.
One of the most popular dishes to have with roti is a vegetable curry. This dish is made by cooking a mix of vegetables in a tomato and onion-based gravy with a blend of spices. The spice mix can vary from region to region, but some common spices used in this curry include cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Besides vegetable curries, you can also try popular meat curries such as butter chicken, chicken tikka masala, and lamb rogan josh. These dishes usually have a thick, creamy gravy that goes perfectly with roti.
Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Gravies That Compliment Roti
Roti, also known as chapati, is a staple food in many Indian households and is often served with a variety of gravies. Vegetarian gravies such as dal makhani, palak paneer, or chana masala are flavorful options that pair well with roti. Dal makhani, a creamy lentil dish, is made from a combination of black and kidney beans and is a rich source of protein. Palak paneer, on the other hand, is a creamy spinach and cottage cheese dish that is a favourite among vegetarians. Chana masala, a spicy chickpea curry, is another popular vegetarian gravy that is packed with flavour.
For non-vegetarian gravies, butter chicken and lamb curry are excellent options. Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a popular creamy tomato-based chicken curry that is a favourite among meat lovers. Lamb curry, on the other hand, is a hearty and flavourful dish made with tender chunks of lamb in a rich gravy. While these gravies are typically enjoyed with naan or rice, they make the perfect accompaniment to soft rotis as well. Whether you prefer vegetarian or non-vegetarian gravies, there is a plethora of options that can be enjoyed with freshly made roti.
Regional Pairings: What Goes Best with Roti in Different Parts of India
In India, roti is a staple food that is enjoyed in many different ways with various accompaniments. The typical choice of side dishes for roti varies across different regions of India, and the combination of roti with other foods in a meal is often influenced by local culture, traditions, and taste preferences.
In the North, roti is typically eaten with curries made from lentils, vegetables, and meats, such as chicken and mutton. In the East, the favourite accompaniments for roti include fish and seafood curries, along with different vegetable preparations. In the South, rotis are often paired with dishes like sambar, dosa, or idli, that comprise lentils, rice, or fermented batter. West India, on the other hand, prefers pairing rotis with vegetable and bean curries, as well as savory snacks like kachori, bhakri, and puran poli. No matter where you are in India, you are sure to find a tasty and satisfying accompaniment to enjoy with your roti.
Fusion Foods: Creative Roti Accompaniments from Around the World
Roti is a versatile flatbread that can be paired with various dishes from different cuisines. Fusion foods have gained popularity over the years, where chefs are combining different regional cuisines to create unique and delicious dishes. In this section, we will explore some of the creative roti accompaniments from around the world.
One popular fusion dish is the roti wrap, where the flatbread is used as a wrap to contain flavorful fillings like chicken tikka, paneer, or vegetables with sauces like tzatziki, hummus, or sriracha. Another interesting fusion dish is the roti pizza, where the flatbread acts as a pizza base and is topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and toppings like keema, tandoori chicken, or sautéed vegetables. These creative roti accompaniments from around the world bring a new twist to the traditional flatbread and are worth trying.
Health-Conscious Choices for Roti Lovers
In today’s world, everyone is concerned about their health and diet. If you are a roti lover, you must choose healthy options to go with it. One of the most popular and healthy choices is green vegetables that are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. You can sauté spinach, kale, or fenugreek leaves with onions and garlic. You can also make a mixed vegetable curry that includes cauliflower, broccoli, carrots, peas, and bell peppers.
For protein requirements, you can choose lentils or beans. Lentil and Bean curry or soup goes well with roti. Dal or lentil soup is an excellent source of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates. It is light, easy to digest and packed with nutrition. Avoid oily and fried foods, as they are unhealthy and can cause health problems. So, make a healthy change towards a balanced meal with roti.
Desserts That Go Well with Roti
When it comes to Indian cuisine, desserts hold a special place in our hearts. And when it comes to pairing these desserts with roti, the options are endless. One of the most popular desserts that goes well with roti is Gulab Jamun. This soft, spongy dessert soaked in sugary syrup can be paired with warm rotis. Another favorite is the classic Indian sweet dish, Gajar ka Halwa. This dessert made with grated carrots cooked in milk and sugar is perfect to be enjoyed with rotis.
Another dessert that pairs well with roti is the creamy, decadent kulfi. This frozen dessert made with milk and various flavors such as cardamom, saffron, and pistachios can be served with roti. And lastly, there is the all-time favorite, ras malai. This spongy cottage cheese dumpling soaked in sweetened milk and flavored with cardamom can be paired with flaky rotis to create a heavenly combination of flavors and textures. So, the next time you have rotis on your plate, make sure to try one of these delicious desserts as well.
Beverages That Can Complete Your Roti Meal
After enjoying a delicious roti meal, it’s always great to have a suitable beverage to wash it down. While there are many options to choose from, some beverages go better with roti than others.
One of the best beverages to accompany roti is a glass of lassi. This traditional Indian yogurt-based drink comes in sweet or salty flavors and provides a refreshing and cooling sensation after a spicy roti meal. Another great option is masala chai, a hot tea infused with spices that complement the warm and comforting taste of roti. Freshly squeezed lemonade or a refreshing fruit juice can also be a great choice to balance out the flavors of a roti dish. However, water is always a much-needed drink to have alongside a meal that has been spiced up. Choose a beverage that complements your meal to achieve the ultimate dining experience.
Wrapping Up
Roti is a popular Indian bread that is served with a wide variety of dishes. It is an integral part of the Indian cuisine and is commonly eaten with curries, vegetables, and lentils. The versatility of this flatbread makes it an excellent choice for any meal of the day.
Whether you are looking for a hearty breakfast, a quick snack, or a filling dinner, roti is the perfect accompaniment. Its simple and straightforward recipe allows it to be transformed into a multitude of dishes, making it a favorite of many. So, the next time you are looking for something to eat, consider adding roti to your meal for a delicious and satisfying experience.