5 International Sauces That Taste Incredible With Indian Food
Indian food is already a celebration of flavors—but if you're feeling adventurous, there's a whole world of sauces that can elevate your everyday meals in unexpected ways. The best part? You don’t need any fancy culinary skills to enjoy them. These globally popular sauces not only pair beautifully with Indian staples, they also bring out the bold, vibrant notes of desi spices.
Griffith David, Founder and CEO of Habanero Foods, shares his top international sauces that deserve a spot in your Indian kitchen:
1. Mexican Salsa Roja: More Than a Nacho Dip
You may know Salsa Roja as a tortilla chip companion, but it’s so much more. Crafted from tomatoes, onions, and chilies, this robust sauce is a game-changer when paired with Indian dishes like anda bhurji, omelets, or even as a zesty companion to parathas. It also works beautifully as a simmering sauce for chicken or vegetables, offering a spicy-sour punch that complements Indian masalas.
2. Italian Basil Pesto: Earthy, Herby Goodness
Often reserved for pasta, basil pesto—made with herbs, garlic, and nuts like almonds or walnuts—is surprisingly versatile. Spread it on sandwiches with grilled paneer or veggies for a rustic fusion treat, or swirl a spoonful into yogurt to make a herby dip for kebabs. It’s a perfect way to introduce a new layer of flavor to your Indian snacks.
3. Greek Tzatziki: The Ultimate Cooling Partner
Tzatziki, a creamy blend of thick yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, and herbs like dill or mint, is the cooling contrast your spicy Indian food needs. Serve it alongside tikkas, seekh kebabs, or biryani to add a refreshing, smooth touch to your spread. It also makes naan and other breads feel extra indulgent with every bite.
4. Thai Sweet Chili Sauce: Sweet Meets Spice
This tangy-sweet staple of Southeast Asian cuisine is a star with spring rolls—but it’s just as incredible with Indian snacks. Drizzle it over pakoras, kachoris, or samosas for a sweet-and-spicy twist. Try brushing it over paneer or grilled chicken before cooking to add an irresistible glaze and unexpected depth of flavor.
5. Gochujang Mayo: A Korean Kick for Indian Cravings
Mix spicy Korean gochujang (fermented chili paste) with creamy mayo, and you’ve got yourself a flavor-packed sauce that’s perfect for fusion food. Try it in wraps and burgers, as a dip for fries or wedges, or as a finishing drizzle over rice bowls. Its umami punch adds a whole new dimension to Indian dishes.
Spice Up Your Kitchen with Global Flair
Sometimes the secret to revamping your home-cooked meals is simply adding a new sauce. These international flavors don’t clash with Indian food—they enhance and evolve it. So go ahead, experiment a little. You might just stumble upon your next favorite flavor pairing!