Vegetarian gravies offer an incredible variety of flavors, textures, and aromas. They range from creamy, mild gravies to spicy, tangy ones, each offering a unique experience. Let’s look at some famous vegetarian gravies and what they pair best with.
1. Paneer Butter Masala: Creamy and Comforting
Paneer Butter Masala is a popular vegetarian gravy that features soft cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a rich, creamy tomato gravy. This dish is known for its mild sweetness, buttery richness, and a delicate balance of spices.
- Gravy Base: Tomatoes, butter, cream, cashews, and a blend of spices like garam masala and fenugreek.
- Flavor Profile: Creamy, mildly sweet, rich.
Accompaniments:
- Naan or Garlic Naan: The soft, warm naan soaks up the rich gravy perfectly.
- Jeera Rice (Cumin rice): Lightly spiced rice to balance the creamy sauce.
2. Baingan Bharta: Smoky and Tangy
Baingan Bharta is a traditional Punjabi dish made from roasted eggplant mashed into a spicy, smoky gravy. The smoky flavor from the charred eggplant gives this dish a deep, complex taste.
- Gravy Base: Roasted eggplant, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices like cumin and coriander.
- Flavor Profile: Smoky, tangy, mildly spicy.
Accompaniments:
- Tandoori Roti or Phulka: Soft flatbreads complement the smoky flavors.
- Basmati Rice: Aromatic rice pairs well with the tangy and spicy eggplant gravy.
3. Aloo Gobi (Potato and Cauliflower Curry): Simple, Spicy, and Flavorful
A classic North Indian dish, Aloo Gobi is a comforting curry made with potatoes and cauliflower in a mildly spiced, onion-tomato-based gravy.
- Gravy Base: Onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and cumin.
- Flavor Profile: Spicy, slightly tangy, comforting.
Accompaniments:
- Chapati: Soft and warm chapatis are the best accompaniment for this dryish curry.
- Plain Rice: The curry can also be paired with simple, fragrant rice.
4. Chole (Chickpea Curry): Spicy and Bold
Chole, or Chickpea Curry, is a popular dish from North India made with chickpeas simmered in a spicy, tangy gravy made from tomatoes, onions, and a special blend of spices like amchur (dried mango powder) and garam masala.
- Gravy Base: Onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a mix of spices.
- Flavor Profile: Bold, spicy, tangy.
Accompaniments:
- Bhature (deep-fried bread) or Poori: These puffed-up breads are perfect to scoop up the rich, spicy gravy.
- Basmati Rice: Chole is also commonly served with plain rice for a lighter option.