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In Indian cuisine, among the variety of comforting options, a dish becomes more delicious and delightful with key garnishes that play a vital role. Garnishing is an essential part of Indian cuisine, adding both flavour and visual appeal to dishes. From crispy fried onions to zesty lemon wedges, garnishes not only enhance the taste but also make meals more exciting.
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These simple yet flavourful condiments are widely used across India to complement various dishes. Whether it’s the tangy punch of anardana or the fresh kick of adrak lacha, each garnish brings its own unique touch. In this article, let’s explore seven popular Indian garnishes that are commonly used, showing how they effortlessly elevate everything from street food to home-cooked meals.
Fried Onions
Fried onions are a beloved garnish in Indian cuisine. They are thinly sliced onions that are deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Their sweet, caramelised flavour adds depth to various dishes. Fried onions are commonly used in biryani, pulaos, and curries. For example, the famous Hyderabadi biryani is often topped with fried onions, which give it an irresistible crunch and flavour. You can also find them sprinkled on dal and kebabs to elevate the taste.
Anardana
Anardana, or dried pomegranate seeds, adds a unique tangy flavour to dishes. These ruby-red seeds are both beautiful and delicious, making them a popular garnish. Anardana is often used in chaat dishes, like bhel puri and dahi puri, where it enhances the flavour profile with its sweet and sour notes. Additionally, it can be used to garnish salads and raitas, providing a burst of flavour and a lovely colour contrast.
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Adrak Laccha
Adrak laccha refers to thinly sliced ginger, which is often julienned for garnish. This condiment is known for its sharp and spicy taste, making it a fantastic addition to various dishes. Adrak laccha is commonly used in Indian street food, especially on top of dishes like aloo tikki chaat or chole bhature. It adds a fresh zing and complements the richness of these dishes beautifully. You can also find it in some curries and soups, where it provides a spicy kick.
Grated coconut
Grated coconut is a versatile garnish that adds a rich texture and flavour to many Indian dishes. Fresh coconut can be found in both sweet and savoury preparations. It is often used to top dishes like upma, poha, or coconut rice, adding a tropical touch. In South Indian cuisine, grated coconut is a common ingredient in dishes like avial and sambhar, where it enhances the overall taste. Additionally, it is sometimes sprinkled over desserts like payasam or modaks for added flavour and presentation.
Image Credits: Adobe Stock
Green Chutney
Green chutney, made from fresh coriander, mint, and green chillies, is a vibrant and tangy garnish that complements a variety of Indian dishes. It’s often drizzled over chaat, pakoras, or samosas to add a burst of freshness. In street foods like bhel puri or sev puri, a spoonful of green chutney brings a refreshing flavour that balances the spicy and savoury elements. Green chutney is versatile and is a staple in most Indian households, frequently used as a dip or a garnish.
Fresh Leaves
Fresh herbs like coriander leaves and mint leaves are essential garnishes in Indian cooking. Chopped cilantro leaves are used to garnish a wide variety of dishes, including curries, soups, and rice dishes. Their fresh, citrussy flavour brightens up any meal. Mint leaves, on the other hand, add a refreshing touch. They are often used in raitas, salads, and biryanis. For example, a plate of biryani served with a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves is not only visually appealing but also adds a burst of flavour.
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Lemon Wedges
Lemon wedges are a simple yet effective garnish that adds acidity and brightness to dishes. They are often served alongside rich and spicy meals to balance the flavours. For instance, lemon wedges are commonly seen with grilled fish or chicken, where a squeeze of lemon enhances the taste. They are also a popular accompaniment to chaats, helping to elevate the overall flavour with their tangy kick. A dash of lemon juice can transform a dish, making it a must-have garnish in Indian cuisine.
