Indian cuisine is incomplete without its wide variety of Indian breads. Soft, fluffy, crispy, layered, or tandoor-cooked—each bread has its own charm and plays a huge role in completing a meal. Whether you’re eating spicy curries, creamy gravies, or simple dals, the right bread elevates the entire dining experience.
In this guide, we break down 5 essential Indian breads—their textures, flavours, cooking styles, and best pairings—so you know exactly what to order next time at an Indian restaurant in the Netherlands.
1. Indian Breads: Naan – Soft, Fluffy & Perfect with Rich Curries
Naan is arguably the most famous Indian bread across the world. Traditionally cooked in a hot clay tandoor, naan is soft and slightly chewy with a smoky flavour.
Why Naan is Loved Globally
- Perfectly soft and fluffy
- Slight crisp edges when fresh
- Made with all-purpose flour
- Often enriched with yogurt, milk, or butter
Popular Naan Varieties
- Butter Naan – soft, buttery and the ultimate curry companion
- Garlic Naan – topped with fresh garlic and coriander
- Cheese Naan – stuffed with melted cheese, a modern favourite
- Tandoori Naan – classic, smoky and aromatic
Best Paired With:
- Butter Chicken
- Paneer Butter Masala
- Dal Makhani
- Chicken Tikka Masala
If you prefer something soft, warm, and indulgent, naan is your best pick.
2. Roti (Chapati) – The Heart of Everyday Indian Meals
When we talk about Indian breads, roti is the most common daily staple across Indian households. Unlike naan, roti is made using whole wheat flour and cooked on a tawa (flat iron griddle).
Why Roti Is a Staple
- Light and wholesome
- Made from whole wheat
- Easy to digest
- Completely oil-free (unless brushed with ghee)
Types of Rotis
- Phulka – puffed, soft, very light
- Tawa Roti – evenly cooked with a mild nutty flavour
- Ghee Roti – brushed with ghee for added richness
Best Paired With:
- Aloo Sabzi
- Dal Tadka
- Bhindi Masala
- Chicken Curry
- Mixed Vegetable Curry
If you’re looking for something healthy and light, roti is always a perfect match.
3. Paratha – Crispy, Flaky & Stuffed with Flavour
Paratha is one of the most exciting Indian breads thanks to its layers, crispiness, and endless variations. Unlike roti, parathas often use ghee or oil during cooking, giving them a rich taste.
Types of Parathas You Must Try
- Aloo Paratha – stuffed with spiced mashed potatoes
- Gobi Paratha – filled with grated spiced cauliflower
- Paneer Paratha – soft, protein-rich stuffing
- Laccha Paratha – layered and crispy
- Plain Paratha – versatile and lightly crispy
What Makes Parathas Special?
- Crisp yet soft
- Rich flavour
- Perfect for breakfast
- Great with pickles, butter, or yogurt
Best Paired With:
- Yogurt & Pickle
- Chole
- Shahi Paneer
- Keema Curry
A paratha is filling, flavourful, and ideal when you need extra comfort.
4. Kulcha – A Delhi & Amritsar Favourite
Kulcha is a soft, leavened Indian bread similar to naan but usually cooked on a tawa instead of a tandoor. It’s most famous in North India, especially the streets of Amritsar.
Popular Types of Kulcha
- Amritsari Kulcha – stuffed with spiced potato and onion
- Plain Kulcha – soft, stretchy and mild
- Masala Kulcha – filled with herbs and spices
Why People Love Kulcha
- Soft, chewy texture
- Tastes amazing with chole (spiced chickpeas)
- Lightly crisp on the outside
Best Paired With:
- Chole
- Butter Chicken
- Paneer Lababdar
If you want something soft yet flavourful, kulcha is a must-try.
5. Poori – Puffy, Golden & Perfect for Festive Meals
Unlike most Indian breads cooked on a tawa or tandoor, poori is deep-fried. It puffs up beautifully and has a slight crisp on the outside with a soft interior.
Why Poori Is Special
- Used in festivals and celebrations
- Kid-friendly and fun to eat
- Light, airy texture
Popular Poori Variants
- Luchi – Bengali-style soft white poori
- Bedmi Poori – flavoured with lentils and spices
- Masala Poori – dough mixed with spices
Best Paired With:
- Aloo Sabzi
- Chana Masala
- Halwa (for the famous halwa poori combo)
Poori is festive, delicious, and always brings joy to the table.
Why Indian Breads Are So Unique
Indian breads stand out globally because of their variety—from whole wheat rotis to luxurious parathas and rich naans. The diversity of Indian regions has gifted the world an incredible selection of textures and flavours.
What Makes Indian Breads Special?
- Different cooking styles: tandoor, tawa, deep-fryer
- Use of diverse flours: wheat, maida, gram flour
- Ability to complement any curry or dish
- Endless variations and regional twists
Indian breads are not just side dishes—they are core elements of Indian food culture.
Craving Fresh Indian Breads in the Netherlands?
At Indian Junction Netherlands, we serve a delicious variety of fresh, authentic Indian breads including naan, roti, kulcha, and paratha—each prepared with traditional techniques and paired beautifully with our curries, gravies, and tandoori specials.
👉 Order your favourite Indian breads today:
https://indianjunction.nl/
Experience the real taste of India, right here in the Netherlands!