What To Serve With Chickpea Curry (15 Easy Ideas!)

Whether you’re a vegetarian, are trying to cut down a little on your meat consumption, or you just enjoy trying new recipes, chickpea curry makes for a hearty and nutritious dinner, and it’s perfect if you love a spicy dish. 

This authentic chana masala is my go-to recipe – it has North Indian and Pakistani roots, and it has the added benefit of being a one-pot wonder that’s suitable for vegans! 

If you’re wondering about side dishes, you’re in the best place. 

The best choices for what to serve with chickpea curry include steamed rice, naan bread, poppadoms, cucumber raita, and kachumber salad. If you want to add an additional protein, try tandoori chicken, paneer tikka, or lamb kebabs. Other fabulous side dishes include aloo gobi, saag paneer, and dal makhani. 

Let’s take a look at some more ideas… 

Basic Accompaniments

When enjoying a chickpea curry, some straightforward side dishes can enhance your meal.

Steamed Rice

White basmati rice complements chickpea curry wonderfully.

Its fluffy and light texture soaks up the curry sauce, leaving you with a perfectly balanced bite.

Steaming the rice preserves its delicate fragrance which pairs nicely with the robust flavours of the curry.

Naan Bread

A freshly made naan bread, with its slightly chewy texture and charred taste, is ideal for scooping up the chickpea mixture.

Lightly brush your naan with garlic butter for an extra layer of flavour that works in harmony with the spices in the curry.

Fancy adding some extra sauce? Check out sauces for naan bread! 

Poppadoms

Crispy poppadoms offer a contrasting texture to your chickpea curry.

These thin, crisp discs act as a spoon or a complement to the meal, and you can also enjoy them with various chutneys or a sprinkle of chaat masala for an additional savoury crunch.

Salads and Vegetables

A well-paired salad or selection of vegetables can elevate your chickpea curry by offering a refreshing contrast.

These accompaniments not only balance the flavours but also add nutritional value to your meal.

Cucumber Raita

Cucumber raita acts as a cooling agent against the warm spices of chickpea curry.

To make it, simply combine grated cucumber with plain yoghurt, a hint of cumin, and fresh coriander.

It’s a delightful addition that soothes your palate.

Kachumber Salad

A traditional Indian salad, kachumber includes diced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and a splash of lemon juice.

Season with salt and pepper for a simple yet crisp side that complements the creamy texture of your curry.

Roasted Vegetables

For a heartier side, try roasting an assortment of vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and courgettes.

Drizzle them with olive oil and a sprinkle of seasoning before roasting to bring out their natural sweetness.

These roasted delights make for a robust addition to your chickpea curry feast.

Additional Proteins

When you’re looking to complement your chickpea curry, adding a selection of proteins can help balance your meal and provide an excellent variety of flavours.

Tandoori Chicken

You can marinate chicken pieces in a mix of yoghurt, tandoori masala, garlic, and ginger overnight.

Grill them until they’re smoky and charred.

This protein pairs exceptionally well with the creamy texture of chickpea curry.

Paneer Tikka

Marinate chunks of paneer in a blend of tikka spices and yoghurt before grilling.

The firm, grill-marked paneer adds a pleasant texture contrast to the soft chickpeas.

Serve paneer tikka on the side or atop your curry for an added protein boost.

Lamb Kebabs

Form seasoned ground lamb around skewers and grill them until they’re juicy and slightly crispy on the outside.

The robust flavour of lamb kebabs makes a satisfying addition to the chickpea curry’s milder taste profile.

Side Dishes

When pairing side dishes with your chickpea curry, selecting ones that complement the flavours is key.

Look for sides that can absorb the curry’s sauce or provide a textural contrast.

Aloo Gobi

Aloo gobi, a vibrant cauliflower and potato dish, is an excellent accompaniment.

Its earthy spices harmonise with the robust chickpea curry, while the vegetables add a pleasant bite.

Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh coriander to enhance flavour.

Saag Paneer

Saag paneer is a luscious blend of spinach and paneer cheese that pairs beautifully with chickpea curry.

The creaminess of the paneer contrasts nicely with the heartiness of the curry, offering a rich and satisfying experience.

Ensure the paneer is lightly fried for added texture.

Dal Makhani

Lastly, dal makhani, a sumptuous lentil dish, becomes a delectable choice.

Its creamy, buttery profile complements the chickpea curry’s spice, creating a balance that you’ll appreciate.

Pair with naan or rice to soak up every last drop of the sauces.

If you want to add some more options to the table, check out what to eat with dhal for more ideas! 

Beverage Pairings

Adding some drinks is always a good idea when it comes to what to serve with chickpea curry! 

Lassi

A traditional Lassi complements the spices in chickpea curry very well.

Its creamy texture and cooling effect can balance the heat from the spices.

Opt for a plain, sweet, or mango-flavoured lassi as per your preference.

Chai Tea

A hot cup of Chai Tea, with its aromatic spices, makes a splendid match for chickpea curry.

It’s both refreshing and comforting, especially if you prefer a less intense drink.

Kingfisher Beer

For those who enjoy a tipple with their meal, a chilled pint of Kingfisher Beer is a firm favourite.

Its crisp and clean taste is ideal for washing down the robust flavours of the curry.

As you can see, there are so many delicious choices to consider for what to serve with chickpea curry. 

Whether you’re planning an Indian style banquet or just a quick midweek dinner, these options make fantastic additions to the table. 

Which recipes will you be trying? 

Do take a minute to leave your thoughts in the comments section below – I love hearing about what you’re up to in the kitchen! 

For more curry night ideas, head over and check out the best salads that go with a curry, and what to eat with monkfish curry.