Indian breads are an important part of Indian cuisine and are often eaten as a side dish to complement main courses. With more than 30 different Indian bread types, these can be baked, steamed, fried, leavened or unleavened. They are perfect for sopping up delicious curry sauces, serving as toppings, or even stuffing for a quick snack.
Among the best Indian breads, naan is one of the most popular you absolutely have to try. It is typically served hot and fresh, and it goes well with Indian dishes such as chicken tandoori, kebab, or chana masala. Any Indian restaurant menu is incomplete without an authentic garlic naan, which belongs to the category of tandoori breads.
Now, let’s look at some other kinds of Indian bread and what dishes pair best with them.
1. Chapati
The word chapati was derived from the process of making this Indian flatbread, which involves slapping and stretching the dough until it is ready to cook. Although the process appears to be difficult, the result is simply irresistible. Its nutty yet mild flavour pairs well with chicken sukka, lamb bhuna, or saag paneer. Chapati is a classic unleavened Indian bread often found in everyday meals.
2. Parotta
Parotta is another type of Indian flatbread that originated in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Sri Lanka. Parotta and Paratha are often confused because they are both flatbreads with thin, crispy flakiness and layers. On the other hand, Parotta is silkier and doughier, making it ideal for stuffing with cheese, onion, and sardines for a savoury snack. It can also be filled with bananas, condensed milk, or Nutella to satisfy your sweet tooth.
3. Paratha
Unlike Parotta, which is made by slapping and stretching, Paratha’s flakiness and chewy textures result from glee-layering and folding, the same process used to make puff pastries. The dough is then baked on a hot Tawa before pan-frying to achieve the crispiness needed to hold thick curries and dry stir-fries without losing their shape. It may take some time to prepare and cook, but the effort is well worth it because this unleavened flatbread is known for its versatility and density.
4. Poori
Poori is the best option if you’re looking for a thin Indian bread that fries up crisp and golden. It’s very simple to make and does not require special skills—just combine whole wheat flour, salt, oil, and water before frying. Serve with chole masala, vegetable korma, or chutney to enjoy this popular Indian bread dish like a pro.
5. Bhatura
Bhatura, a deep-fried Indian bread made of maida flour, yeast, ghee, and yoghurt, is the final item on the list. It’s similar to Poori and Naan, and is frequently served with rich curry dishes like Chole Bhature. For the best experience, eat Bhatura while it is still hot, and pair it with a refreshing yoghurt drink. Bhatura is one of the best Indian breads for curry, thanks to its fluffy yet chewy texture.
Best Indian Breads for Curry
While every bread has its unique appeal, some are especially suited to curries:
- Naan – perfect with creamy butter chicken or kebabs.
- Paratha – best with dry stir-fries or spicy gravies.
- Poori – goes beautifully with chole masala or potato curry.
- Bhatura – a must with chana masala.
- Chapati – everyday choice with lentil or vegetable curries.
Whether you’re enjoying crispy Indian bread like Poori or soft and fluffy Naan, these options are the perfect side to elevate any meal.
Indian Breads by Cooking Method
Indian breads can be categorised by how they are made:
- Tandoori Breads – baked in a clay oven, such as naan and kulcha, which develop a smoky, charred flavour.
- Unleavened Indian Breads – like chapati and phulka, made without yeast, perfect for everyday meals.
- Fried Breads – such as poori and bhatura, which puff up and offer a light, crispy Indian bread texture.
- Stuffed Breads – like parathas, filled with spiced potatoes, paneer, or vegetables.
- Regional Breads – including appam, thepla, and missi roti, each representing a different part of India.
This variety ensures there’s always an Indian bread type to pair with your meal, whether you want something light and thin or hearty and filling.
Best Indian Breads for Curry Pairings
If you’re wondering which Indian breads for curry work best, here are some classic combinations:
- Butter Chicken + Garlic Naan – the creamy curry pairs perfectly with soft naan.
- Chole Masala + Bhatura – a North Indian favourite, rich and satisfying.
- Saag Paneer + Chapati – light, wholesome, and balanced.
- Keema Curry + Paratha – the layers of paratha hold up to the spiced minced meat.
- Vegetable Kurma + Poori – puffed bread with a mildly spiced vegetable curry.
These are considered some of the best Indian breads for soaking up curries, making every bite flavour-packed.
Conclusion
From crispy Indian breads like poori to fluffy tandoori breads such as naan, the variety of Indian bread types is as diverse as the country itself. These breads are not just sides—they are an essential part of the dining experience, perfect for scooping up rich curries, balancing spicy flavours, or serving as standalone snacks.
Whether you’re exploring unleavened Indian bread like chapati for an everyday meal, indulging in bhatura with chole on a festive day, or enjoying stuffed parathas as comfort food, each bread has its own story and purpose.
So next time you order or cook Indian food, don’t forget to try a mix of these kinds of Indian bread. You might just discover your new favourite companion for curry.
