What To Serve With Idli? 15 BEST Side Dishes

If you're a fan of soft, fluffy idlis, you might be on the lookout for delicious side dishes to accompany them.

Idli, a popular South Indian breakfast staple, is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes.

In this post, we'll explore 15 delicious side dishes that are perfect to serve with idli.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with idli are sambar, coconut chutney, butter chicken, dal makhani, chicken curry, gobi manchurian, mint coriander chutney, peanut chutney, potato masala, palak paneer, vegetable kurma, and egg curry.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Sambar

Sambar is a spicy, tangy lentil-based soup that is a classic companion for idli. Packed with vegetables and flavored with tamarind, this dish adds a burst of flavor to the soft idlis. The rich and hearty sambar not only enhances the taste of idli but also provides a wholesome meal full of nutrients.

2. Coconut Chutney

Coconut chutney is a smooth and creamy dip made from fresh coconut, green chilies, and spices. This refreshing chutney pairs perfectly with idli, adding a burst of flavor and contrasting texture. The coolness of the coconut chutney complements the warm idlis, making it an irresistible combination.

3. Dal Makhani

Dal makhani is a popular North Indian dish made with whole black lentils, kidney beans, and a buttery, creamy tomato sauce. Its rich, velvety texture and robust flavors make it a great side dish to serve with idli. The combination of dal makhani and idli offers a satisfying, protein-packed meal.

4. Chicken Curry

Chicken curry is a versatile and flavorful dish made from tender chicken pieces cooked in a spiced sauce. Depending on your preference, the curry can be mild or spicy, making it an adaptable side dish for idli. The aromatic and bold flavors of chicken curry add a delightful depth to the idli experience.

5. Gobi Manchurian

Gobi Manchurian is a delicious Indo-Chinese fusion dish made from crispy fried cauliflower florets tossed in a tangy, spicy sauce. The combination of crunchy cauliflower and soft idli creates an exciting contrast of textures. Gobi Manchurian's bold flavors also complement the mild taste of idli, adding a unique twist to the traditional meal.

6. Tomato Onion Chutney

Tomato onion chutney is a tangy and spicy side dish made from tomatoes, onions, and spices. This chutney is a fantastic match for idli, as its sharp flavors cut through the softness of the idlis. Its vibrant color and bold taste make it a popular choice for many idli lovers.

7. Mint Coriander Chutney

Mint coriander chutney is a refreshing, green dip made from mint leaves, coriander leaves, and a mix of spices. Its bright, fresh flavors elevate the idli experience, adding a zesty kick to each bite. The chutney's vivid green color also adds a visual appeal to the meal.

8. Peanut Chutney

Peanut chutney is a delicious and nutty dip made from roasted peanuts, red chilies, and spices. Its rich, earthy flavors complement the soft, mild taste of idli. The creamy texture of the peanut chutney adds a luxurious mouthfeel, making it a favorite among idli enthusiasts.

9. Potato Masala

Potato masala is a spiced potato dish that pairs excellently with idli. The soft, fluffy potatoes are cooked with aromatic spices, creating a warm and comforting side dish. The potato masala adds a satisfying heartiness to the meal, making it perfect for those looking for a more filling breakfast.

10. Vegetable Kurma

Vegetable kurma is a creamy, mildly spiced curry made with mixed vegetables and a coconut-based sauce. This side dish provides a medley of flavors and textures that enhance the idli experience. The rich, creamy sauce adds a luxurious touch, while the variety of vegetables ensures a nutritious meal.

11. Egg Curry

Egg curry is a flavorful and protein-rich side dish that combines hard-boiled eggs with a spiced tomato-based sauce. The bold flavors of the curry perfectly complement the soft, mild idlis. This combination is ideal for those looking to add a dose of protein to their breakfast.

12. Butter Chicken

Butter chicken is a rich and creamy dish made with tender pieces of chicken cooked in a tomato-based sauce and finished with butter and cream. The luxurious flavors of butter chicken pair surprisingly well with idli, transforming it into a more indulgent meal. The creamy sauce provides a delightful contrast to the soft and fluffy idlis.

13. Veg Kolhapuri

Veg Kolhapuri is a spicy and flavorsome mixed vegetable curry from the state of Maharashtra. This dish is prepared with an aromatic blend of spices and coconut, creating a rich and hearty side dish. Veg Kolhapuri adds a fiery kick to idlis, providing an exciting flavor contrast for those who love a bit of heat.

14. Palak Paneer

Palak paneer is a popular North Indian dish made from soft paneer (cottage cheese) cubes cooked in a smooth, spiced spinach sauce. The nutritious and flavorsome dish adds a burst of color and taste to the idli experience. The combination of palak paneer and idli offers a delightful mix of flavors, while the rich and creamy spinach sauce contrasts beautifully with the soft and fluffy idlis.

15. Malabar Prawn

Curry Malabar prawn curry is a flavorful seafood dish from the coastal region of Kerala. The curry is made with succulent prawns cooked in a tangy, coconut-based sauce infused with spices. The rich and zesty flavors of the Malabar prawn curry enhance the idli experience, adding a coastal twist to the meal.

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