Indian food has a way of making family dinners feel extra special. But, choosing the right dishes can feel like a juggling act, especially when every member has their own idea of the ‘perfect meal.’
You can start by considering whether your family prefers mild or spicy, vegetarian or non-vegetarian options. For a variety, you can go for a mix of flavours and textures in dishes. And, finish with a sweet dessert to please everyone.
So, keep reading, and we will help you figure out a spread that everyone at the table will love.
Why Indian Meals For Dinner?
The diversity in Indian food makes it ideal for family meals, with different flavours and textures that everyone, young and old, can appreciate.
From the north to the south, east to west, India’s culinary offerings ensure there is a dish to satisfy every palate. The spicy curries, hearty biryanis or crunchy chats are a delicious method to get the whole family around the table.
Moreover, Indian cuisine is deeply rooted in the tradition of sharing and meals meant to be enjoyed communally.
It is as much about the people around the table as it is about the food, serving as a bridge that strengthens bonds and deepens connections with loved ones. The simple act of sharing food sets the stage for laughter and relaxed conversations.
Indian cuisine is a beautiful reminder that food can do more than just satisfy hunger – it can create a sense of unity and fill the air with warmth.
Selecting The Best Indian Foods For A Happy Dinner
Know Your Family’s Preferences
Bringing the family together over dinner is what it is all about, so take everyone’s likes and dislikes into account. Keep diet restrictions and personal favourites in mind when making your selections.
Not everyone handles heat the same way. Check for dishes labelled as mild, medium or spicy on the menu to match spice tolerance. If you are unsure about the heat level of a dish, do not hesitate to request adjustments to suit your family’s taste.
Most restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free, vegan or low-fat preferences. They will also gladly help you find the right dish.
Indian food is flexible enough to meet different dietary needs without compromising on flavour at all. And, it is better to get a variety of options that will appeal to every taste.
Flavours And Textures
A great Indian meal is built on the art of balancing both flavours and textures. The magic of Indian dishes comes from mixing different elements, resulting in a multi-layered, delectable experience.
By playing up textures and tastes in your dishes, you create a dinner where every bite is interesting and works with the next course. When selecting your meal, think of contrasts. Rich, creamy dishes balance beautifully with lighter options.
For instance, a luscious, indulgent curry can be complemented well by fluffy Indian bread. This keeps the meal from feeling too heavy yet engaging.
While you might be drawn to classic dishes like Naan and Chicken Tikka Masala, stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new can lead to a scrumptious surprise.
You can encourage your loved ones to break away from their usual choices and explore lesser-known meals or regional specialities. And honestly, there is an ocean of options available, each uniquely delectable from one another.
They stand out with their own distinct and delicious taste. Restaurant staff are experts in their menu. So, they can also guide you toward the most-loved dishes or their signature items.
The Feast
As you browse the menu, be sure to choose a selection that includes something that each family member can enjoy. Here’s how you can approach it:
》Appetisers
Start with a spread of small, shareable starters. It is a wonderful introduction to the meal, offering up a world of flavours to try. It sets the tone for the dinner, letting people nibble and engage in a lively conversation.
》Main Courses
▪︎ Curries
Indian curries and dishes can be anything from hearty and filling to lighter, more subtle options. If you are looking for curries with depth and richness, a plate of Gosht Rogan Josh or Chettinad Chicken will definitely hit the spot.
Those seeking a vegetarian dish or lighter meal should consider a Vegetable Korma or Saag Paneer.
▪︎ Rice And Bread
Rice and bread are essential companions to any Indian meal. Both help to round out the meal, balancing the spices of the curries and adding a comforting base to the dishes.
These staples are necessary for soaking up gravies and sauces too. And, it is a good idea to get a little more bread or rice so everyone can have their fill.
》Sides And Condiments
Sides and condiments bring depth and contrast to the meal. From cooling yoghurt-based sides like Cucumber Raita to tangy pickles (achaar), these components make the dish even better. These little extras can make a huge difference in the most exciting way possible.
》Drinks
The right drink can perfectly complement the complex flavours of Indian food. A good drink can bring out the best in your meal, whether it is a fresh mocktail, a beloved traditional beverage or a fine wine like Riesling or Pinot Noir.
Sipping a drink can also clear your taste buds, allowing you to fully appreciate the next course.
》Desserts
And of course, save some space for dessert! Decadent and toothsome, Indian sweets contrast nicely with the spices in the meal. Desserts such as Gulab Jamun and Rasmalai are heavenly.
And, if you are curious about must-try Indian dishes for a special dinner, be sure to check out our blog!
Customise The Meals For Kids
Though Indian food is packed with bold flavours, it is still possible to cater to the tastes of younger diners. When you adapt to kids’ eating habits, they will get just as much excitement out of the meal as the adults.
So, search for dishes that are appetising but not too spicy, ideal for little mouths to savour. Curries, including Dal Tadka and Aloo Gobi, have a comforting, mild spiciness that is easy on their palate.
A serving of rice or bread with these curries presents a complete, satisfying meal. You can always tell the chef to adjust the spice level depending on your child’s tolerance.
Indian finger foods are a fun and delicious way to get kids thrilled about eating. Samosas, pakoras and Gobi 65 are bite-sized treats that are great for kids to handle.
To keep things balanced and avoid food waste, just ask for smaller portions for your kids. Looking for a kid-friendly Indian menu? Our blog covers the top Indian dishes your kids shouldn’t miss.
Include Shareable Dishes
Family-style servings are a natural fit for Indian cuisine, so opt for dishes that everyone can dig into together. Instead of sticking to individual plates, shareable dishes give everyone the opportunity to try a little bit of everything.
It makes room for wider menu choices, sparks conversation and ensures everyone has the chance to sample new things while still holding on to their usual picks.
A Good Restaurant
A family dinner is about more than just eating; it is about creating a friendly and relaxed atmosphere for all. So, find a restaurant with a welcoming ambience that makes you feel comfortable from the moment you step in.
The restaurants should also promote sharing and provide an array of menu options to choose from. A skilled and friendly team can make your time there more memorable, guiding you with insights on the menu and ensuring everything flows without a hitch.
And, located in both Amsterdam and Utrecht, The Madras Diaries is a popular Indian restaurant known for its authentic and mouthwatering Indian menu.
Our team is dedicated to making your family dinner exactly what you are hoping for. So, we look forward to serving you soon. Until then, bon appétit!
