Best Side Dishes for Biryani (9 Yummy Side Dishes)

Biryani is a dish that is commonly eaten in many parts of the world. There are many different variations of this dish, but it always consists of rice and some sort of meat or vegetable.

If you’re looking for some food sides to eat with biryani, look no further! In this article, we will discuss several different options that you can try.

List of Side Dishes for Biryani

1. Cucumber Raita
2. Onion Rings
3. Vegetable Curry
4. Roasted Aubergines
5. Tamarind Sauce
6. Veggies Pakoray
7. Aloo Jeera
8. Paneer Makhani
9. Mirchi Ka Salan

Cucumber Raita

For anyone who’s ever had a craving for Indian food, cucumber raita is the perfect side dish to accompany it. Raita is a yogurt-based sauce that is traditionally used as a cooling condiment, and the cucumbers in this recipe add a refreshing crunch.

The best part about cucumber raita is that it’s incredibly easy to make. Simply combine chopped cucumbers, yogurt, and your favorite spices in a bowl and you’re done.

Not to mention, it’s also a healthy option since it’s low in calories and fat. So next time you’re in the mood for some delicious biryani, don’t forget to include cucumber raita on your plate.

Onion Rings

Onion rings are a popular side dish in many restaurants, and they can also be a great addition to the biryani. The onion’s sweetness pairs well with the spices in the biryani, and the crispy texture of the rings provides a nice contrast to the rice and meat.

In addition, onion rings are usually served with a dipping sauce, which can add even more flavor to the dish. So if you’re looking for a new way to enjoy biryani, try pairing it with onion rings. You might just find that it’s your new favorite way to eat this delicious rice dish.

Vegetable Curry

While biryani is often thought of as a complete meal in itself, it is commonly served with a side of vegetarian curry. This dish is typically made with a variety of vegetables, including potatoes, peas, and carrots, among others.

The vegetables are cooked in a spiced tomato-based sauce until they are tender. The result is a flavorful and hearty side dish that compliments the rice and spices in the biryani.

While the exact ingredients may vary depending on region and personal preference, vegetable curry is a common and delicious way to round out a traditional biryani meal.

Roasted Aubergines

One of my favorite side dishes to make with biryani is roasted aubergines. First, I slice the aubergines into thin rounds and then I brush them with olive oil. I then sprinkle a little bit of salt and pepper.

Next, I put them in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit and let them roast for about 20 minutes. The result is aubergines that are slightly browned on the outside and tender on the inside.

They add a delicious smoky flavor to the biryani that pairs perfectly with the rice and spices. Give it a try the next time you’re making biryani – I’m sure you’ll love it!

Tamarind Sauce

Tamarind sauce is a popular choice for biryani, as it adds a tart and tangy flavor that complements the rich spices in the dish. This simple sauce is a great way to add an extra layer of flavor to your favorite biryani recipe.

To make tamarind sauce, simply combine tamarind paste, sugar, and water in a saucepan and cook over low heat until the sugar has dissolved. Once cool, the sauce can be spooned over biryani before serving.

Veggies Pakoray

Pakora is a delicious Indian fried food that can be made with a variety of different vegetables. They are usually served as an appetizer or side dish, but I think they make an excellent addition to the biryani. The veggies add a nice crunch and a bit of sweetness to the rice, making for a well-rounded meal.

To make veggie pakora, you will need 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder, 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder, 1 tablespoon oil, 1/2 cup water, and 1 tablespoon minced fresh cilantro.

You can use any mix of vegetables but I suggest using potato, onion, carrot, sweet potato, and cauliflower.

First, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, cumin powder, and red chili powder in a bowl. Then add the oil and water and mix until the batter is smooth. Finally, stir in the cilantro and vegetables.

To cook the pakora, heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides. Enjoy.

Aloo Jeera

Aloo jeera is a simple yet delicious side dish that is often served with biryani. The dish is made by sautéing potatoes and cumin seeds in oil until the potatoes are soft and the cumin is fragrant. Often, other spices such as ginger, garlic, and chili pepper are also added to the mixture.

Once the potatoes are cooked, they can be mashed or left whole, and the end product is a hearty dish that is perfect for soaking up all the flavors of biryani. When paired together, these two dishes create a meal that is both flavorful and filling.

Paneer Makhani

Paneer makhani is a delicious, rich, and creamy side dish that goes perfectly with biryani. Paneer is a type of Indian cheese that is simmered in a tomato-based sauce, making it incredibly flavourful and fragrant. The addition of cream and spices gives the dish an extra richness and depth of flavor, making it the perfect accompaniment to the biryani.

It is also relatively easy to make, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for something quick and tasty to make for your next meal. Simply simmer the paneer in the tomato sauce until it’s cooked through, then add the cream and spices and serve. You’ll be sure to impress your guests with this delicious and easy-to-make side dish.

Mirchi Ka Salan

One common variation of biryani is to serve it with Mirchi ka salan, a savory curry made with green chili peppers.

The heat of the peppers pairs well with the rich flavors of the biryani, and the creamy sauce helps to balance out the spices in the dish.

Whether you are looking for a way to add some extra flavor to your biryani or simply want to try something new, Mirchi ka salan is worth a try.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make biryani?

Biryani is a popular Indian rice dish that can be made with chicken, lamb, or vegetables. The recipe can be a little tricky to follow, so here are a few tips to help you make the perfect biryani every time.

First, heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Then add the chicken, lamb, or vegetables and sauté until they are tender. Then add the rice and cook for a few minutes more until the rice is lightly toasted.

Next, add the stock or water and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the rice is cooked through. Finally, add the desired amount of salt and spices and serve.

What is the difference between biryani and pilaf?

The difference between biryani and pilaf is that biryani is typically spicier and more flavorful than pilaf.

Can biryani be made in advance?

Biryani can be made in advance. It tastes even better if it is allowed to sit for a few hours after it is cooked. This allows the flavors to blend and create a delicious and complex dish. So if you are planning on hosting a party or have a busy day ahead, biryani is the perfect dish to make ahead of time.

Conclusion

The perfect biryani is all about balance. The rice should be fluffy and light, the vegetables should be cooked but still crispy, and the meat should be tender and flavorful.

To achieve this balance, it is essential to have the right mix of spices. For traditional biryani, I like to use cumin, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper. However, you can also experiment with other spices like fennel or star anise. Once you have your spice blend, the key is to not overdo it. The flavor should be subtle and complex, not overpowering.

When it comes to choosing sides for biryani, I like to keep it simple with raita and a green salad but you can choose the side you want. For me, the cooling effect of the raita helps to offset the spiciness of the dish, while the salad adds a hint of freshness. Together, they create the perfect balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

Try serving biryani with different side dishes of your choice and find your favorite combination today.