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.