Everyone loves a good snack platter with a fine selection of sweet and savory bites. Chefs often talk about the importance of pairing these two distinct flavors – and some resources speak of it being a common practice in olden times.
Italian cookbooks from the 14th to 16th centuries frequently mention using fruit and vegetables in broth, and combining sugar with savory meat and vegetable dishes. And this is not the most recent mention either. The Egyptians, and Chinese, have done it for thousands of years – masterfully incorporating sweet and savory flavors that we enjoy even today. In the Middle Ages, pickles were often made with salt, vinegar, and honey.
But what IS it that makes this combination so elite?
After years of research on the human body, we now know this is courtesy of the SGLT1 – sugar receptors that live on the tongue’s sweet taste cells, and activate only when there is salt. According to the renowned pastry chef Malika Ameen, “Salt is a flavor enhancer, and when it’s correctly combined with something sweet, it creates flavor layering”. This complex yet addictive flavor allows you to enjoy your food even more.
This article brings you some of the choicest desi sweet and savory combos, with simple recipe ideas you can easily attempt at home!
Try these popular desi sweet & savory pairings
Desi food is quite popular in the U.S. – with the market steadily growing, and over 4100 establishments, according to a report on Indian restaurants. And with the rise in popularity of cultural food from South Asia, we get to see plenty of sweet and savory food pairings – unique items that go together beautifully.
Nothing quite says desi as chasing your dinner with mithai or another sweet treat. Our list has a small selection of some of the most beloved food combos that work best for such cravings!
Crispy beef samosa & gulab jamun
This combo is a little slept on but will take your snack platter to the next level. The crispy beef samosa has a delicate crunch and a juicy beef filling. Follow this delicious savory with a bite of Gulab Jamun, and enjoy the exquisite taste of the soft, rich sweetness.
Time Tip: To reduce your prep time use Kaiser Crispy Beef Samosa. It comes ready to cook so you only have to fry it in oil or an air fryer. If you are not a fan of beef, you can substitute it with Kaiser Crispy Chicken or Lamb Samosa.
Quick recipe idea: For indulgent Gulab Jamuns, ready within an hour, try this traditional recipe by Dhwani Mehta.
Chicken kebab kati roll & jalebi
Chicken kebab kati roll is an excellent choice to add good protein to a fun meal. Enjoy the flavorful kebab wrapped in a soft paratha and chase it with a warm Jalebi dripping with rich syrup!
Time Tip: Make your meal prep easier by choosing the Kaiser Chicken Kabab Kati Roll. It comes fully cooked so all you have to do is warm it up. Dunk it in the included chutney for the full experience!
Quick Recipe idea: Try this delicious and original adaptation of Jalebi by Kanaka Saxena to get a taste of the real thing – ready in approx. 1.5 hours.
Veggie spring roll & shakarpara
South Asian vegetable spring rolls have a crispy texture and a flavorful filling. Enjoy these veggie spring rolls with sweet shakarpara for a comforting snack over chai.
Time Tip: Pick up Kaiser Veggie Spring Rolls on your next grocery run to make this easier. Pop them in some hot oil to cook thoroughly and enjoy warm. Meat lovers can substitute this with the Chicken Spring Roll.
Quick recipe idea: Ready in just over an hour, give this simple Shakarpara recipe by Manali a try in your kitchen and enjoy the flaky, sweet treats!
Lachha paratha with rabri
Lachha paratha with rabri is a popular breakfast idea in South Asia. Use the flaky, buttery paratha to scoop up the rich rabri for an explosion of flavors in your mouth.
Time Tip: Whether you want this combo for breakfast or brunch, make the prep easier for yourself with Kaiser Lachha Paratha. Just heat it until golden brown on each side, and enjoy!
Recipe idea: Although it takes over an hour, the result is worth every minute. Try this classic Rabri recipe by Kanan Patel to savor with your paratha or on its own!
Tandoori chicken tikka & kheer
Want a dinner menu with one of the best sweet & savory combos? Look no further. Smoky and juicy chicken tikka is a little spicy and best chased with a cool cup of sweet rice pudding – the much-loved, kheer.
Time Tip: Slash your cooking time with Colonel Kababz Tandoori Chicken Tikka. This flame-grilled chicken tikka is ready to eat once warmed, and an all-time favorite!
Recipe idea: This Kheer recipe by Dassaana Amit gives you the original, traditional taste. Ready to serve in under an hour.
Concluding words…
There is no better way to nourish your nostalgia than to let your taste buds experience the flavors of home. And, there is no better way to experience a culture’s tradition than indulging in the taste of its original recipes.
So, why don’t you start this journey today when you can enjoy traditional food with much less effort? Use our products to try the sweet and savory combos we have talked about, and share your stories with us on Instagram, Facebook, or X!
