There is nothing more comforting than a big, hot plate of dal chawal. A staple food turned comfort food, dal chawal, is more than just a meal-it’s like a warm hug that never fails to remind you of home. This humble combination of lentils (dal) and rice (chawal) holds a special place in the hearts and kitchens of millions of Indians, offering nourishment not just for the body but also for the soul. The simplicity yet wholesomeness of this superfood makes it one of the richest culinary pleasures. Even though it’s just as amazing when eaten on its own, there are a couple of additions here and there, that you can have to take it to the next level.
Here are 7 of the best side dishes that can amp up your plain dal chawal.
1. Papad
A thin, crispy disc made from lentil, chickpea or rice flour, a papad is typically roasted or fried. Adding a delightful crunch and savoury flavour to the meal, papad is a very popular add on when it comes to little munchies on the side.
2. Achaar
These Indian pickles are preserved fruits or vegetables soaked in a mixture of spices and oil. They bring a tangy, spicy kick that really enhances the flavour of dal chawal. Some popular ones include mango, chilli and lemon.
Also Read: This Kerala-Style Naranga Achaar Is Ideal To Pair With Everyday Meals
3. Raita
This is a cooling yoghurt-based side dish mixed with vegetables or fruits such as cucumber, beetroot and pineapple or even boondi (small fried balls of chickpea flour). Raita helps balance the spices and offers a contrasting texture and flavour profile!
4. Chutney
Flavourful Indian sauces made from a variety of ingredients like mint, coriander, tamarind or coconut. Chutneys offer fresh, tangy or sweet tastes that complement the simplicity of dal chawal and together make for a burst of flavours in your mouth!
Also Read: 7 Indian Chutneys That Are The Perfect Accompaniment To A Bowl Of Rice
5. Salad
A basic salad of cucumber, tomato, onion and carrots, topped with a bit of lemon juice, salt and pepper, adds a crunchy, element to your dal chawal. Not only does it give a nice freshness to the meal but also adds a whole lot of roughage and fibre, increasing the overall nutritive value.
6. Fried Snacks
On a heavier side, snacks like pakoras or bhajis (fritters), which are deep-fried and crunchy, provide an indulgent, flavourful addition to the simple dal chawal.
Also Read: Moong Dal Pakoda, Urad Dal Pakoda And More: 5 Dal Pakoda Recipes You Must Try
7. Sauteed Vegetables
Some lightly spiced vegetables such as ladyfinger or potato when sauteed or stir-fried, offer a healthy and flavourful component to the meal.
Dal chawal has fans in every nook and cranny of the country and these are some ways that this culinary experience can have a little revamp. So try out some of these combinations now and elevate your culinary experience of this soul food!
Want to take your favourite comfort food to the next level? Try pairing your dal chawal with these side dishes and let the magic begin. Read on to know more.