Indian Sides Selection

It’s a typical Friday; keeping it to a simple dinner the family menu planner had chicken curry and rice. The family really enjoy the naan breads I make and so that was a given to accompany our dinner.

The curry was butter chicken, chosen was by Ella. I would more than likely make fresh every time but sometimes we do need to relax. This maybe a cliché as when I get in to the kitchen I change into wanting to create dishes and bring new flavours to my family, and the best is they are always willing to try.

So where did my creativity land today. I made the usual naan breads and mint raita and then decided to make some onion bhajis. I really enjoy onion bhajis, the crispy outside and soft center with the spice level that suits you, and in my case mild, more so for the kids. They also are fantastic dipped in to the raita alone.

At this point I raided the rest of my kitchen and fridge and come up with two more side dishes. Spiced green bean niscoise and new potatoes with peas and spiced yoghurt.You could call it a bit of a throw together but they really worked.

The green beans niscoise, a favourite classic of mine; I actually like all the classic dishes, was tremendous. The subtle and delicate spices oozing past the sharpness of the garlic and tang of the tomatoes was a delight.

The new potatoes were so mellow they almost wanted to be eaten on their own. The earthy potatoes, sweet peas and tangy lemon, take ownership independently in your mouth yet melt together seamlessly.

All this just to accompany a good old bought in curry sauce. I wonder what stole the show. Maybe you can decide, try the dishes and let me know?