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Wine is known for its flavour, smell, and texture, which change based on the type of grapes, where they are grown, and how the wine is made. The best wine experiences happen when the wine’s flavours match well with the food, creating a balance that makes both tastes better.
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Food helps improve the wine experience by matching its taste with the wine. Indian cuisine, with its bold spices and many flavours, gives a great chance to try new pairings. From smooth curries to smoky tandoori dishes, the right wine can make your meal even more enjoyable. In this article, let’s explore popular Indian dishes and which wine characteristics pair well with them.
List of Indian Food Items
Prawn Curry
Prawn curry is a coastal Indian delicacy that blends the freshness of prawns with a rich and spicy coconut-based sauce. The delicate flavours of the seafood combined with aromatic spices make it an excellent choice for wine pairing. A light, refreshing wine can balance the heat of the curry and complement the sweetness of the prawns. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy with a wine that can bring out subtle flavours without overpowering the dish.
Malai Kofta
Malai kofta, a North Indian dish, consists of soft vegetables or paneer dumplings served in a rich, creamy tomato-based gravy. The mild and creamy texture of the dish pairs well with wines that are smooth and not too acidic. The gentle spices in the gravy and the richness of the kofta are enhanced by a wine that has fruity undertones, making this a luxurious combination.
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Butter Chicken
Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a globally beloved Indian dish known for its smooth, creamy texture and mildly spiced tomato sauce. This rich, buttery dish pairs beautifully with wines that have a slight sweetness to balance the creaminess of the curry. A medium-bodied wine can help elevate the dish’s flavours without clashing with the spices, creating a well-rounded meal experience.
Rogan Khosh
Rogan josh is a flavourful, aromatic lamb curry hailing from the Kashmir region. The deep, intense flavours of the curry are enhanced with spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. To balance the boldness of the dish, a wine with a fuller body and bold flavours can be a perfect companion. The richness of the meat and the heat from the spices harmonise well with a wine that has enough depth to match the robust flavours.
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Chicken Biryani
Chicken biryani is a fragrant and spiced rice dish layered with tender chicken pieces and aromatic herbs. The complex flavours and aromas of this dish are best complemented by wines that are light and slightly fruity, cutting through the richness of the biryani. A light wine can cleanse the palate, ensuring each bite of biryani remains flavourful and enjoyable.
Paneer Tikka
Paneer tikka is a popular Indian appetiser made from marinated paneer cubes grilled to perfection. The smoky and spicy flavours of the paneer can be beautifully complemented by a crisp and refreshing wine. The charred edges and tangy marinade paired with a wine that has a hint of sweetness create a satisfying balance of flavours.
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Tandoori Fish
Tandoori fish, cooked in a traditional clay oven, is marinated with spices and yoghurt, giving it a smoky and tender texture. The light and flaky fish pairs exceptionally well with a crisp, refreshing wine that enhances the freshness of the dish. The wine should be light enough to not overpower the delicate fish while still complementing the spices used in the marinade.
