Indian breads are often eaten as a side dish. They are an important part of Indian cuisine to complement main courses. India has 30 different types of bread, which are either baked, steamed, fried, leavened or unleavened. These breads are great for sopping up delicious curry sauces, serving as toppings or stuffing.
Naan is one of the most popular Indian breads you have to try. It is typically served hot and fresh, and it goes well with Indian dishes such as chicken tandoori, kebab, or chana masala. Any Indian restaurant menu is incomplete without listing an authentic garlic naan.
Now, let’s look at some other types of Indian bread and find out what goes best with them.
Chapati
The word chapatti was derived from the process of making this Indian flatbread, which involves slapping and stretching the dough until it is ready to cook. Although the process appears to be difficult, the result is simply irresistible. Its nutty yet mild flavour pairs well with chicken sukka, lamb bhuna, or saag paneer.
Parotta
Parotta is another type of Indian flatbread that originated in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and India’s neighbouring country, Sri Lanka. Parotta and Paratha are often confused because they are both flatbreads with thin crispy flakiness and layers. On the other hand, this one is silkier and doughier, making it ideal for stuffing with cheese, onion, and sardines for a savoury snack or filling with bananas, condensed milk, and Nutella satisfies your sweet tooth.
Paratha
Unlike Parotta, which is made by slapping and stretching, Paratha’s flakiness and chewy textures result from glee-layering and folding, the same process used to make puff pastries. The dough is then baked on a hot Tawa before pan-frying to achieve the crispiness needed to hold thick curries and dry stir-fries without losing their shape. It may take some time to prepare and cook, but the effort is well worth it because this unleavened flatbread is known for its versatility and density.
Poori
Poori is the best option if you’re looking for a crisp Indian flatbread. It’s also very simple to make and does not require special skills, just combine whole wheat bread, salt, oil, water, and fry until golden. Serve with chole masala, vegetable korma, or chutney to feel like a pro.
Bhatura
Bhatura, a deep-fried Indian bread made of maida flour, yeast, ghee, and yoghurt, is the final item on the list. It’s similar to Poori and Naan, which are frequently served with a variety of curry dishes. You can also accompany your meal with a yoghurt drink mixed with water and spices, but for the best experience, eat Bhaturaz while it is still hot.
The list above is the Indian breads you have to try. So what you should get first? Leave a comment and share this post with your family and friends to let them know what you’re up to.
