What To Serve With Dal Makhani? 16 Best Side Dishes

Dal Makhani is a rich and creamy lentil dish that's perfect for any occasion.

But what should you serve with it? Here you can find the 16 best side dishes to pair with your Dal Makhani.

These sides will add variety and make your meal even more delicious.

Looking for a quick answer?

the best side dishes to serve with dal makhani are jasmine rice, naan bread, gobi manchurian, sambar, chicken curry, palak paneer, mutton curry, baba ganoush, papdi chaat, tofu tikka masala, mint chutney, vegetable pakoras, aloo gobi, cucumber raita, roti and mango chutney.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice is a fragrant and fluffy side that pairs wonderfully with Dal Makhani. Its subtle aroma and soft texture complement the creamy lentils perfectly. To prepare, rinse the rice until the water runs clear, then cook with water in a 1:1.5 ratio. Let it simmer until tender. This simple rice dish adds a comforting base to your meal.

2. Naan Bread

Naan bread is a classic side that goes well with Dal Makhani. Soft and slightly chewy, naan is perfect for scooping up the creamy lentils. You can make it at home or buy it ready-made. Warm it up on a skillet or in the oven for a few minutes before serving. It's a must-have side for any Indian meal.

3. Gobi Manchurian

Gobi Manchurian is a spicy and tangy cauliflower dish that adds a flavorful punch to your Dal Makhani meal. The cauliflower florets are battered and fried, then tossed in a savory sauce. This side dish brings a nice contrast to the creamy lentils, offering a mix of textures and bold flavors.

4. Sambar

Sambar is a hearty lentil soup with vegetables and spices. It adds a spicy and tangy kick to your Dal Makhani meal. Sambar is traditionally served with rice or bread, making it a versatile side dish. The rich flavors of the lentils and vegetables complement the creamy Dal Makhani beautifully.

5. Chicken Curry

Chicken curry is a flavorful and spicy dish that pairs well with Dal Makhani. The tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich, spiced sauce add a hearty element to your meal. The combination of creamy lentils and spicy chicken is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Serve it with rice or naan for a complete meal.

6. Palak Paneer

Palak Paneer is a popular spinach and cheese dish that adds a nutritious and flavorful element to your meal. The creamy spinach sauce with soft paneer cubes complements the rich Dal Makhani. This dish is not only tasty but also adds a nice green touch to your plate, making your meal well-rounded and satisfying.

7. Mutton Curry

Mutton curry is a robust and flavorful side that pairs excellently with Dal Makhani. The tender mutton pieces cooked in a spicy gravy add depth to your meal. The rich and bold flavors of the mutton curry enhance the creamy lentils, creating a satisfying and hearty combination. Serve it with rice or bread for a complete meal.

8. Baba Ganoush

Baba Ganoush is a creamy eggplant dip that pairs surprisingly well with Dal Makhani. Its smoky flavor and smooth texture provide a nice contrast to the rich and hearty lentils. Serve it with warm pita bread or fresh vegetables for dipping. This Middle Eastern favorite adds an interesting twist to your Indian meal.

9. Papdi Chaat

Papdi Chaat is a popular Indian street food that makes a great side dish for Dal Makhani. This dish combines crispy papdi (fried dough wafers) with potatoes, chickpeas, yogurt, and various chutneys. The mix of textures and sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors complements the creamy lentils, making your meal more exciting.

10. Tofu Tikka Masala

Tofu Tikka Masala is a vegetarian alternative to the classic chicken tikka masala, perfect for pairing with Dal Makhani. Marinated tofu cubes are cooked in a rich and spicy tomato-based sauce. The bold flavors of the tikka masala enhance the creamy lentils, creating a delicious and satisfying combination.

11. Mint Chutney

Mint chutney is a fresh and tangy condiment that goes well with Dal Makhani. Made with mint, cilantro, green chilies, and a splash of lemon juice, this chutney adds a refreshing kick to the meal. It's perfect for dipping naan or adding a dollop to your plate for an extra burst of flavor.

12. Vegetable Pakoras

Vegetable pakoras are crispy, deep-fried fritters made with a variety of vegetables and chickpea flour. They add a delightful crunch to your meal, contrasting nicely with the creamy Dal Makhani. Serve them hot with a side of mint chutney or tamarind sauce for dipping.

13. Aloo Gobi

Aloo Gobi is a classic Indian dish made with potatoes and cauliflower cooked with spices. This hearty and flavorful side pairs well with Dal Makhani. The tender vegetables and aromatic spices complement the creamy lentils, making for a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

14. Cucumber Raita

Cucumber raita is a cooling yogurt-based side dish that balances the richness of Dal Makhani. Made with grated cucumber, yogurt, and a pinch of cumin, this refreshing side helps to cool down the spices in your meal. It's light, easy to make, and perfect for adding a refreshing touch to your plate.

15. Roti

Roti is a traditional Indian flatbread that pairs wonderfully with Dal Makhani. Made from whole wheat flour, roti is soft and slightly chewy, perfect for scooping up the creamy lentils. It's easy to make at home and can be cooked on a griddle or tawa. This simple bread adds a wholesome touch to your meal.

16. Mango Chutney

Mango chutney is a sweet and tangy condiment that pairs beautifully with Dal Makhani. Made with ripe mangoes, sugar, and a blend of spices, this chutney adds a burst of sweetness and a hint of spice to your meal. It’s great for spreading on naan or mixing into your lentils for an extra layer of flavor.