Indian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavours, diverse textures, and bold spices, but let’s not forget the secret stars of the show—the sides. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner or a grand event, sides are what transform a good meal into a truly unforgettable feast. From buttery naan to sweet gulab jamun, these extras are the key to winning hearts (and taste buds).
Key Points
- Sides provide balance, flavour, and variety to Indian catering spreads.
- From breads to chutneys, versatile options cater to all dietary preferences.
- Raj’s Corner offers authentic, delicious Indian catering in Newcastle NSW.
The Role of Sides in Indian Catering
When you think of Indian food, the first thing that might come to mind is a rich curry or a fragrant biryani. While mains are undoubtedly essential, the sides are what make the meal complete. Imagine scooping up a spicy chicken tikka masala with soft garlic naan or cooling off a fiery lamb vindaloo with creamy cucumber raita.
Sides also provide balance to the meal. They allow guests to customise their experience, adding a little crunch, a burst of tang, or even a touch of sweetness to every bite. A well-curated catering service near you will ensure these elements are included, creating a cohesive dining experience that caters to all palates.
Pro Tip: When planning your menu, opt for a mix of sides that complement your mains and include options for guests with dietary preferences.
Must-Have Indian Sides for Your Event
Naan & Roti
No Indian meal is complete without a bread option.
- Naan: This soft, pillowy bread is a crowd favourite. Garlic naan adds a burst of flavour, while cheese-stuffed naan is a decadent choice.
- Roti: For those seeking a healthier alternative, roti (whole wheat flatbread) is light, wholesome, and pairs perfectly with most dishes.
For larger events, consider including a mix of both naan and roti to suit varied tastes.
Rice Variations
Rice is another essential that acts as the perfect base for saucy curries.
- Steamed Basmati Rice: Simple yet fragrant, it’s a versatile option that goes with nearly every dish.
- Vegetable Pulao: A step up from plain rice, this mildly spiced rice dish features mixed vegetables and aromatic spices.
- Biryani: This is not just a side but a meal in itself! Choose from chicken, lamb, or vegetarian biryani to wow your guests.
Chutneys & Dips
Chutneys and dips are the unsung heroes of an Indian meal.
- Mint Chutney: Fresh and tangy, it adds a zingy kick to fried appetisers like samosas and pakoras.
- Mango Chutney: Sweet and tangy, this is a perfect complement to spicy dishes.
- Raita: A yogurt-based side that comes with add-ins like cucumber or boondi (fried gram flour balls), raita helps balance the heat of spicy dishes.
Vegetarian Sides That Steal the Show
Vegetarian options in Indian cuisine aren’t just “meatless alternatives.” They’re bursting with flavour and texture, making them a hit even with non-vegetarian guests.
- Samosas: These crispy pastry pockets, filled with spiced potatoes and peas, are always a crowd-pleaser.
- Pakoras: Deep-fried fritters made from vegetables like onions, spinach, or paneer, perfect for pairing with chutneys.
- Vegetable Curries: Dishes like aloo gobi (potato and cauliflower curry) or palak paneer (spinach with Indian cottage cheese) offer hearty and delicious options.
- Chana Masala: A spiced chickpea curry that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Including a variety of vegetarian sides ensures that everyone at your event has plenty of choices, regardless of dietary preferences.
Desserts and Drinks to Round Out Your Meal
What’s an Indian meal without a sweet ending? Desserts and drinks are as much a part of the experience as the mains and sides.
Desserts
- Gulab Jamun: These syrup-soaked dumplings are soft, spongy, and utterly indulgent.
- Ladoos: Sweet balls made from gram flour and sugar, often flavoured with cardamom or nuts.
- Kheer: A creamy rice pudding cooked with milk, sugar, and garnished with saffron and nuts.
Drinks
- Mango Lassi: This refreshing yogurt-based drink is a sweet, creamy treat that pairs well with spicy dishes.
- Masala Chai: A spiced tea blend with cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger, perfect for a warm finish.
Adding desserts and drinks to your catering package is a surefire way to leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Regional Specialties to Wow Your Guests
Indian cuisine is incredibly diverse, with regional specialities that can add a unique touch to your event.
- Dhokla (Gujarat): A steamed, savoury cake made from fermented rice and chickpea batter.
- Mishti Doi (West Bengal): A sweetened, fermented yogurt dessert.
- Hyderabadi Biryani: Known for its rich spices and slow-cooked meat, this biryani is a showstopper.
Including a few regional options can take your catering from excellent to extraordinary, offering your guests a taste of India’s culinary diversity.
Raj’s Corner: Your Trusted Catering Partner in Newcastle NSW
When it comes to catering in Newcastle NSW, Raj’s Corner is the go-to choice for authentic Indian cuisine. From aromatic curries to essential sides like naan, rice, and chutneys, we bring the flavours of India to your table.
Visit our catering page to explore options and customise your perfect menu. Whether it’s a small gathering or a large celebration, we’re here to make your event deliciously memorable.
Conclusion
Sides are the heart of any great Indian meal. From buttery naan and spiced samosas to cooling raita and indulgent desserts, these extras elevate every dish and ensure a balanced, flavourful experience for your guests.
With Raj’s Corner, you’re in the best hands for catering in Newcastle NSW. Get in touch today to create a menu your guests will rave about!
FAQs
- What are the most popular Indian sides for events? Naan, biryani, samosas, and chutneys are always a hit at any gathering.
- How can I cater to dietary restrictions with Indian sides? Indian cuisine offers gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options like roti, vegetable curries, and pakoras.
- Does Raj’s Corner offer dessert options for catering? Yes, desserts like gulab jamun, ladoos, and kheer can be added to your catering package.
- Can I customise the sides for my catering package? Absolutely. Raj’s Corner will work with you to tailor the menu to your needs.
- How far in advance should I book catering with Raj’s Corner? We recommend booking at least two weeks in advance to ensure availability.
