The Art of Pairing Indian Chutneys & Pickles: Enhancing Your Meal at Sherri’s UK

by: Admin

Published On: 07-10-2025

Indian food is a celebration of flavors, colors, and textures. One of the secret ingredients that truly bring Indian meals to life is the humble chutney and pickle. These condiments are more than just sides—they are the burst of taste that makes every bite exciting. If you’ve ever wondered which chutney or pickle goes best with your favorite dish, you’re not alone. At Sherri’s UK, we believe that pairing the right chutney or pickle with your meal can turn a good meal into a great one.

In this post, we’ll explore the art of pairing Indian chutneys and pickles with different dishes served at Sherri’s UK. Whether you love biryani, samosas, kebabs, or curries, we’ll guide you on which chutney or pickle to choose to make your meal unforgettable.

Before diving into pairings, let’s understand what chutneys and pickles are.

Chutneys are sauces or pastes made from fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. They can be sweet, sour, spicy, or tangy. Chutneys are fresh or cooked and are usually served in small bowls to add a burst of flavor.

Popular chutneys include:

• Mint chutney (fresh, green, and spicy)
• Tamarind chutney (sweet and tangy)
• Coconut chutney (creamy and mild)
• Mango chutney (sweet and slightly spicy)

Indian pickles are preserved fruits or vegetables marinated with spices, salt, and oil. They are stronger in flavor and have a tangy, salty, and spicy punch. Pickles are often homemade and vary by region.

Common pickles include:

• Mango pickle
• Lime pickle
• Mixed vegetable pickle
• Garlic pickle

Pairing the right chutney or pickle with your meal is about balancing flavors. Indian dishes often have complex spices, rich gravies, or crispy textures. Chutneys and pickles enhance the taste by adding freshness, acidity, or heat. They awaken your palate and keep each bite exciting.

Without the right accompaniment, some dishes might feel one-dimensional or too heavy. The right chutney or pickle brings harmony and elevates your dining experience.

1. Biryani

   Biryani is a fragrant rice dish layered with meat or vegetables and spices. It’s flavorful and often rich.

   Best Chutney:
   • Raita (yogurt-based side): Although not a chutney, raita is the classic pairing to cool down biryani’s heat.
   • Mint and coriander chutney: Adds freshness and a slight kick.
   Best Pickle:
   • Mango pickle: Its tangy and spicy notes cut through the richness of biryani.
   • Lime pickle: Adds a zesty punch that pairs beautifully with the rice and meat.


2. Samosas & Pakoras

   These deep-fried snacks are crispy and savory.

   Best Chutney:
   • Mint chutney: Cool and refreshing with a spicy hint.
   • Coriander chutney: Herbaceous and vibrant.
   Best Pickle:

   Typically, pickles are not paired with fried snacks but if you love tangy flavors, a small dab of mixed vegetable pickle can be exciting.



3. Tandoori and Grilled Meats

   Juicy, smoky tandoori chicken, seekh kebabs, or grilled paneer have bold flavors.

   Best Chutney:
   • Mint and coriander chutney: The go-to chutney for grilled meats; it refreshes and balances smoky flavors.
   • Green chili chutney: For spice lovers who want an extra kick.
   Best Pickle:
   • Garlic pickle: Its strong flavor complements smoky dishes well.
   • Mango pickle: Adds a burst of tanginess.


4. Curries and Dal (Lentils)

   Curries can be mild or spicy, creamy or tangy. Dal is a comforting lentil stew.

   Best Chutney:
   • Coconut chutney: Smooth and mild, balances spicy curries, especially in South Indian meals.
   • Tomato chutney: Adds sweetness and tang, great with dal and rice.
   Best Pickle:
   • Mixed vegetable pickle: Adds texture and spice to simple dishes.
   • Lime pickle: Adds brightness to rich curries.


5. Parathas and Rotis

   Indian flatbreads like parathas (stuffed or plain) and rotis are staple accompaniments.

   Best Chutney:
   • Onion chutney: Spicy and tangy, excellent with plain rotis.
   • Green chutney: Freshens up the meal.
   Best Pickle:

   Almost any pickle works, but mango and mixed vegetable pickles are popular favorites.

While the suggestions above are classic, food is all about personal taste. Here are some tips to explore chutneys and pickles on your own:

• Start Small: Add a little chutney or pickle first to test how the flavors work with your dish.
• Mix and Match: Try different combinations—sometimes surprising pairings create the best taste.
• Balance Flavors: If your dish is spicy, try sweeter chutneys. If it’s rich or oily, tangy pickles work well.
• Ask the Experts: At Sherri’s UK, our chefs love sharing pairing tips, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations.

In India, chutneys and pickles are part of everyday meals and special occasions. Each region has its unique recipes passed down through generations. For example:

• In South India, coconut chutney is a breakfast staple with idlis and dosas.
• In North India, tangy mango pickles add flavor to meals year-round.
• In Rajasthan and Gujarat, spicy pickles are a must-have to complement simple meals.

These condiments tell stories of local ingredients, climates, and traditions. At Sherri’s UK, we celebrate this diversity by offering authentic chutneys and pickles that bring a slice of India to your table.

At Sherri’s UK, we understand that chutneys and pickles are more than just extras. They are the heart of Indian dining. That’s why we prepare our chutneys and pickles with care, using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients. Each condiment is crafted to bring authentic flavors that enhance your meal.

Whether you’re attending a family celebration, an office get-together, or simply enjoying a meal with friends, our chutneys and pickles make every dish memorable.

If you take some chutneys and pickles home, here are some tips to keep them fresh:

• Chutneys: Keep refrigerated and consume within a few days for freshness.
• Pickles: Since pickles are preserved, they last longer. Store in a cool, dry place and use clean utensils to avoid contamination.

Serve chutneys and pickles in small bowls or ramekins to keep your dining table tidy and elegant.

Chutneys and pickles are the unsung heroes of Indian cuisine. They bring color, contrast, and excitement to every meal. Learning the art of pairing them correctly can truly enhance your dining experience at Sherri’s UK.

Next time you enjoy a plate of biryani, samosas, or curry at Sherri’s UK, remember that the right chutney or pickle can make all the difference. Don’t hesitate to try new combinations and discover your favorite pairings.

If you love Indian food and want to experience the true taste of authentic chutneys and pickles, come visit us at Sherri’s UK. Let’s make every meal a celebration of flavor!