If you’re looking for something different to serve with your favorite curry dish, you’ve come to the right place. Many people automatically think of serving traditional white or brown rice as a side for their curries, but there are so many other tasty options that can be just as delicious.
From naan bread and potatoes to roasted vegetables and lentils, there’s no shortage of creative alternatives that will pair perfectly with any kind of curry. If you’re ready to explore some new ways of pairing up your curries, then read on.
1. Naan bread
Naan bread is the perfect alternative to accompany your curry when you’re looking for something that’s not rice! Not only does it absorb all of the delicious flavors from each dish, but it makes for a great presentation when served hot and fresh from the oven.
Moreover, naan is surprisingly easy to make – even novice cooks can whip it up with just a few simple ingredients. It’s made with all-purpose flour, yogurt, and baking powder, so you don’t need any special cooking skills to make this delicious recipe.
Plus, its slightly smoky flavor adds an extra dimension of depth to any curry. If you want an exotic side dish that’s sure to impress your guests, try serving naan bread with your next curry meal!
2. Cauliflower Rice
If you’re looking to cut down on carbs, then cauliflower rice is a great alternative to regular white or brown rice. It’s a healthier option since it’s made from fresh cauliflower instead of processed grain, and it still takes on all the delicious flavors from the curry.
Plus, having cauliflower rice with your curry will help you feel fuller longer, due to its high fiber content. It can even provide other vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C.
Making cauliflower rice is also incredibly easy – all you need to do is pulse the vegetable in a food processor and cook it in a skillet until it’s tender. Once it’s finished, you can serve it as a side dish with your favorite curry meal.
3. Broccoli rice
Another great alternative to regular rice is broccoli rice. It’s easy to make, cooks quickly, and has a milder flavor than cauliflower, which means it pairs well with a variety of curries.It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthier option than traditional white or brown rice.
Making broccoli rice is very similar to making cauliflower rice – all you need to do is pulse the vegetable in a food processor and then cook it in a skillet until it’s tender. Once it’s finished, you can serve it as a side dish with your favorite curry meal.
4. Barley Rice
Barley rice is a great option for those who are looking for something with a more robust flavor. It has a nutty taste that complements almost any kind of curry, and it cooks in just over 20 minutes. Barley is also high in fiber, vitamins and minerals, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a healthier alternative to white or brown rice.
Making barley rice is actually quite simple – all you need to do is combine the grain with water in a pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Once cooked, you can serve it as a side dish with your favorite curry meal.
5. Bombay potatoes
Bombay potatoes are a great alternative to rice, as they add an extra dimension of flavor to any curry. They’re made with red or yellow potatoes that have been roasted with a mixture of spices such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander. This dish is usually served as a side dish to various Indian curries and can be served hot or cold.
To make Bombay potatoes all you need to do is cut the potatoes into cubes, toss them with oil and spices, and then bake them for about 30 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a great alternative to rice when serving curry. Roasting brings out the full flavor of the vegetables and adds layers of complexity to any dish. Not only does it provide a delicious accompaniment, but it also provides plenty of health benefits.
Roasted veggies provide a good source of dietary fiber which is important for digestive health and satiety. Serving roasted vegetables instead of rice can also help reduce the overall carbohydrate content in your meal which is great for anyone looking to watch their carb intake or manage blood sugar levels.
Preparing roasted vegetables is easy – just throw them in the oven for about 25 minutes with some oil, salt, and pepper. For extra flavor and crunch, you could even add spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic powder or whatever seasonings you prefer.
7. Homemade chips
If you’re looking for something truly unique to serve as a side dish with your curry, why not try making homemade chips? Homemade chips can be made with a variety of ingredients such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, yams or even plantains.
Making chips is actually quite simple – all you need to do is cut the vegetable into thin slices and then fry them in oil until they are golden and crispy. Homemade chips are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to store-bought chips.
8. Potatoes Au Gratin
Potatoes Au Gratin is a delicious cheesy potato bake with layers of sliced potatoes and cheese, topped with a crunchy golden crust. The great thing about potatoes au gratin is that it has the same mild flavor as white rice, but gives you more vitamins and minerals since it is made with potatoes.
You can make your own homemade version by layering boiled potatoes, cream and cheese in an oven safe dish and baking until golden brown. And if you’re feeling particularly daring, try adding some bits of bacon or diced ham to the mix – they will add an extra kick of flavor that will complement the spices found in most curries.
Plus, it’s so easy to prepare! All you need to do is preheat your oven to 350°F, layer the ingredients in a casserole dish and bake for 60-75 minutes.
9. Quinoa
Quinoa is another great grain alternative to white or brown rice that goes perfectly with curry. It has a slightly nutty flavor, is packed with protein, and is an excellent source of dietary fiber and minerals.
You can cook quinoa the same way you would cook rice – just combine it with water in a pot and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Once cooked, you can mix it with your favorite veggies and serve as a side to your curry dish.
10. Lentils
Lentils are a wonderful source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them a great option for those looking to avoid animal proteins. Plus, they have a mild earthy flavor that pairs well with the spices in curries.
To prepare lentils, all you need to do is rinse them and then cook them in boiling water until they are soft. Once cooked, you can mix the lentils with some vegetables and spices of your choice. This makes for a delicious and nutritious side dish that is sure to complement any curry.
11. Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them an excellent accompaniment to any curry dish. Not only are they incredibly versatile and easy to prepare, but they also add a delicious depth of flavor.
You can easily prepare chickpeas by boiling them in salted water for about 90 minutes, or you can even opt for canned pre-cooked chickpeas. Once cooked, you can season them with your favorite spices and herbs, or even top them with a few pieces of diced tomato for an extra burst of flavor.
12. Rice Noodles
Rice noodles are a great alternative to regular white or brown rice, and can be cooked quickly in boiling water. They pair well with curries, as their mild flavor and chewy texture help to bring out the spices in the dish.
Once cooked, you can combine the noodles with your favorite vegetables and herbs, or even add some chopped peanuts or cashews for a crunchy texture.
13. Egg Noodles
Egg noodles are a great option for those looking for a heartier side dish with their curry. You can cook them in boiling water and season with a few spices of your choice for an extra kick.
Once cooked, you can mix them with some vegetables and herbs, or even top them with a few pieces of diced bacon or ham for an extra layer of flavor. Egg noodles are best served fresh, so don’t let them sit too long before serving.
14. Couscous
Couscous is another great grain alternative to rice that goes perfectly with curries. It has a light and fluffy texture, and is a great source of dietary fiber and vitamins.
To make couscous, all you need to do is bring some salted water to a boil, add the couscous and simmer for a few minutes. Once cooked, you can mix it with your favorite vegetables and herbs, or even top it with a few pieces of diced tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
15. Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini noodles are a great grain-free alternative to white or brown rice that goes well with curries. They have a mild flavor and a crunchy texture, and are an excellent source of dietary fiber and vitamins.
To make zucchini noodles, all you need to do is use a spiralizer to slice them into long strands. Once sliced, you can cook them in boiling water for a few minutes and mix with your favorite vegetables and herbs.
Conclusion
There are so many different ways to serve curry that doesn’t involve traditional white or brown rice. From naan bread and potatoes to roasted vegetables and lentils, you can get creative and explore a variety of different side dishes that will pair perfectly with your curry dish. Give some of these ideas a try and you’ll be sure to discover a delicious new way of enjoying your favorite curries.
