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Chapati (also spelled chapathi) is an Indian flat bread that is a staple in India and Pakistan. It's unleavened and made with wheat flour, salt, and water. You might also see this kind of flat bread called roti — in fact, they're so similar, the two names are often used interchangeably, although strictly speaking chapati is a type of roti. Like most Indian food, it's meant to be served alongside a variety of different dishes that can be scooped up with fresh flat bread. From chicken curry to dal, here are the best side dishes to serve with chapati.
Shahi Paneer
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Paneer is a type of fresh cheese used widely in Indian cuisine. This popular version is topped with a thick gravy of cream and pureed tomatoes. Reviewer kirsten says, "I've been trying to find this recipe that actually tasted right. This is the closest I've come! It was excellent. Will add more crushed red pepper next time as I think it could use more spiciness to it. But so, so happy to finally find a keeper!"
Vegetarian Korma
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Reviewer tibbadee says, "If there was a better rating than five stars I would certainly give it to this recipe." Creamy vegetable korma is loaded with potatoes, carrots, jalapeño, cashews, green peas, and bell peppers and tossed in a rich, fragrant sauce. Some reviewers recommend using coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
Chicken Makhani (Indian Butter Chicken)
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This hearty dish side dish consists of chicken tossed in spiced tomato sauce — the perfect pairing for light chapati. Reviewer MariyaC says, "This was absolutely delicious! My Pakistani in-laws are quite picky when it comes to traditional food, but this one is a new favorite!"
Saag Paneer
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This classic Indian dish is made with cubed paneer and cooked spinach. It pairs well with chapati for a hearty, vegetarian meal. "The family and guests say that it is just as good as what we get at our favorite Indian restaurant," says reviewer JimFromKodai.
Shrimp Curry
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This seafood curry has flavor in spades — cumin, ginger, and cilantro layer for a sumptuous, warmly spiced experience. Make fantastically flavored curry in just 30 minutes with this quality recipe.
Aloo Phujia
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Pair this quick and easy potato side dish with chapati for a Indian meal that's great for busy weeknights. Recipe creator CHRISTYJ says, "Spicy potatoes, tomatoes and onions with an Indian kick! This is super spicy so be aware!"
Chicken Korma
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"In this mild Northern Indian dish, chicken is simmered in a creamy fragrant sauce with onion, garlic, ginger and cashews. Add more chili or cayenne for more heat," says recipe creator Trina.
Easy Vegetarian Kofta Curry
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Kofta are spiced meatballs, often served with a thick gravy or sauce. This version uses meatless vegetarian balls for a healthier alternative to a classic Indian dish. Reviewer Patty Wiley says, "I would give this 6 stars if I could! This was amazing and I'll definitely make it again!"
Indian Eggplant - Bhurtha
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"This is a traditional North Indian (Punjabi) Bhurtha made with eggplant and tomato, and seasoned with cumin, turmeric garlic and ginger," says recipe creator SimmiG.
Red Split Lentils (Masoor Dal)
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This red lentil dal can be served immediately or frozen for easy weeknight meals. "Indian-inspired lentils the whole family will love and babies, too. Once the dal and rice are at the desired consistency, it's ready to eat or freeze. Make sure the mixture is completely cool before freezing. I use freezer ice trays and small individual glass bowls with lids," says recipe creator katie.
Spicy Vegan Potato Curry
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Reviewer Katy says, "The combination of spices is completely spot on, giving a very rich and authentic flavour, with a good amount of spiciness, but not enough to hurt! Of course it tastes better the next day, as any curry does."
Alicia's Aloo Gobi
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"This is hands down the easiest and most delicious curry I have ever made. It's my own personal twist on Aloo Gobi, a traditionally dry Indian dish consisting of potatoes and cauliflower. The coconut milk adds the extra sauciness; my favorite part of curry. Serve with basmati rice or, better, with breads such as roti, naan, or pita," says recipe creator Alicia.
Red Lentil Curry
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This rich and hearty curry is best served with a lighter dish like chapati. "Don't let the ingredient list faze you, this really is an easy dish to make," says recipe creator Emma Maher.
Chana Masala (Savory Indian Chickpeas)
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In this classic Indian dish, chickpeas are mixed with tomatoes, onions, and spices for a flavorful vegetarian dish. "I go to Indian restaurants often and it definitely rivaled the chana masala I've had there," says reviewer Lil Liz.
Indian Vegetable Bhaji Recipe
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This side dish is great for those who like their curries on the drier side. "Bhaji is a fry, so do not add water and you will really enjoy the drier variety of an Indian curry. Great with breads like naan or paratha, or with rice and daal (Indian lentil soup)," says recipe creator NP.
Cucumber Raita
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In Indian cuisine, raita is used to cool the palate, so it's great to pair with spicy foods or just to have with some chapati on a hot day. Cucumber, fresh mint, and Greek yogurt make this base of this refreshing dish.
Dal Makhani (Indian Lentils)
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"Ever go to an Indian restaurant and wonder how they make those lentils? I hated lentils before I discovered Indian food. Then I scoured the internet to figure out how they achieved them, and through mixing and matching recipes and methods on videos, I've arrived at this recipe, which I think is pretty close," says recipe creator SOGOLONDJATA.