5 Unexpected Indian Dishes that Pair Perfectly with hot Sauces

Hot sauce! That fiery friend that adds a kick to any dish. In India, the land of vibrant spices, hot sauce takes many forms, from the fiery red chilies to the tangy green chutneys.

But we often associate them with the usual suspects – pakoras, samosas, or maybe even a biryani. 

Today, we're venturing beyond the familiar and exploring 5 unexpected Indian dishes that become flavour explosions when paired with hot sauce!

5 Unexpected Indian Dishes that Pair Perfectly with hot Sauces

1. Dahi Vada:

These melt-in-your-mouth lentil dumplings, soaked in creamy yoghurt, are a South Indian delight. The coolness of the yoghurt and the soft texture of the vadas crave a burst of flavour. Here's where your hot sauce comes in! 

A drizzle of a tangy green chutney, with its punch of coriander and mint, adds a refreshing zing. For those who like it hot, a red chilli-based hot sauce complements the creamy yoghurt beautifully, creating a delightful textural and taste contrast. 

2. Dosa:

The quintessential South Indian crepe, dosa, comes in various forms – plain, masala, or stuffed with potato. The thin, slightly fermented rice and lentil batter creates a slightly sour base that begs for a flavour boost. 

Here's where the magic of hot sauce happens! A dollop of coconut chutney, with its subtle sweetness and creamy texture, balances the sourness of the dosa perfectly. 

Feeling adventurous? Try a fiery Andhra chutney made with red chilies and peanuts – the heat cuts through the richness of the dosa, creating an unforgettable experience.

3. Upma:

Upma is a popular breakfast dish across India. Upma's versatility allows for the addition of vegetables, nuts, and spices, but sometimes it can lack that extra oomph. Enter the hot sauce! 

A squeeze of a lime-based hot sauce, with its citrusy zing, awakens the flavours of the upma. Alternatively, a hot sauce with curry leaves and mustard seeds adds a warm, earthy kick that elevates the simple dish.

4. Aloo Gobi:

Aloo Gobi is a staple in many Indian households. The simplicity of the dish allows the natural flavours of the vegetables to shine, but sometimes it craves a bit more excitement. Hot sauce to the rescue! 

A spoonful of a tomato-based hot sauce, with its tangy sweetness, adds a delightful depth to the aloo gobi. Feeling adventurous? Try a hot sauce with smoked paprika; the smoky flavour compliments the earthy notes of the cauliflower, creating a unique taste sensation.

5. Idli & Sambar:

 Idli & Sambar is a classic South Indian breakfast. The fluffy idlis and the hearty sambar create a satisfying contrast, but sometimes you might crave a little extra. Hot sauce, once again, comes to the party! 

A dollop of coconut chutney adds a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the sambar, while a drizzle of a fiery red chilli chutney cuts through the idli's mildness.

The Art of Pairing: Matching Heat and Flavour

The beauty of this exploration lies in the endless possibilities. When pairing hot sauce with these unexpected dishes, remember to consider the heat level and overall flavour profile.

• For milder dishes: Opt for chutneys or hot sauces with citrusy notes or a touch of sweetness. These add a refreshing element without overpowering the delicate flavours.

• For bolder dishes: explore red chilli-based hot sauces or those with strong spices like mustard seeds or curry leaves. These stand up to the robust flavours and create a symphony of heat and spice.

Embrace the Adventure:

So, the next time you have a plate of dahi vada or a steaming dosa, don't be afraid to reach for the hot sauce bottle. With a little experimentation, you might just discover your new favourite flavour combination. 

After all, Indian cuisine is all about celebrating the vibrant dance of spices, and hot sauce is just another note waiting to be added to the melody!