Why Sides Matter More Than You Think
Let’s be honest: while the main course gets all the glory, the true magic of a perfect takeaway lies in the side dishes. They are the unsung heroes—the elements that balance the flavour, provide the essential crunch, and ultimately turn a simple meal into a proper feast. A great side can transform a dry main, cut through richness, or just add that comforting carb hit you desperately need.
We know that when you’re looking to order, you’re often searching for the absolute best value. Getting your side dishes right is key to that, especially when you can find fantastic Food deals that bundle the best accompaniments with your main dish.
We've travelled the length and breadth of the UK's takeaway scene (metaphorically, of course!) to bring you a guide to the most essential and beloved side dishes across our favourite cuisines. Get ready to rethink your next order!
The Indian Side Dish Hall of Fame 🍛
When it comes to Indian cuisine, the side dish is not merely an afterthought; it’s an integral part of the dining experience.
Naan Bread (Plain, Garlic, or Peshwari): The essential utensil. Whether you're scooping up sauce with a fluffy, classic naan or enjoying the sweet, coconutty delight of a Peshwari naan (perfect for cutting through spicy curries), bread is mandatory. Pro Tip: Don't forget to check the menu for deals that include two types of naan for a small fixed price.
Pilau Rice vs. Boiled Rice: This is the eternal debate! Pilau rice offers a beautiful aromatic flavour thanks to spices like cardamom and cloves, making it ideal for mild curries. Boiled rice is the neutral choice, great for pairing with rich, heavy sauces like a Vindaloo or Madras.
Bombay Aloo: These spiced, slightly dry, and often pan-fried potatoes are a fantastic alternative to plain rice or chips. They offer a depth of flavour and a texture that complements creamy dishes like a Korma or Makhani.
Onion Bhajis: Crispy, slightly spicy, and deeply savoury, these golden-brown onion fritters are the quintessential starter or side. Perfect for dipping into raita or cooling down your palate.
Chinese Takeaway Sides: The Crunch and Comfort 🥢
Chinese food is all about contrast—salty vs. sweet, soft vs. crisp. The sides here are designed to enhance that textural complexity.
Salt and Pepper Chips: A modern UK invention and arguably the most beloved side. These chips are usually chunky, triple-cooked, and tossed in a powerful mix of salt, pepper, chilli flakes, and spring onions. A phenomenal side for everything from Beef Curry to Sweet and Sour Chicken.
Prawn Crackers: The iconic freebie! Light, airy, and essential for the table. They’re excellent for mopping up sauce without filling you up too quickly.
Crispy Seaweed (Fried Cabbage): Don’t be fooled by the name; this delicious dish is actually thinly shredded cabbage that has been flash-fried until shatteringly crisp and dusted with sweet, savoury seasoning. It’s light, addictive, and brilliant alongside any saucy main course.
Spring Rolls: Whether they are the thin, crispy vegetable versions or the chunkier, meatier Cantonese style, spring rolls add a comforting, deep-fried crunch to your dinner.
Pizza Night's Unsung Heroes 🍕
Pizza night is often simple, but the right sides turn it into a party.
Garlic Bread with Cheese: The UK staple. It’s comforting, cheesy, and the perfect carby companion to cut through the acidity of tomato sauce. Many pizzerias offer this as part of their deals.
Dips: Garlic & Herb or BBQ dips are no longer optional—they are essential for crust-dipping. Look out for Food deals that include multiple tubs for free or a reduced price.
Chicken Wings: Often marinated in BBQ or hot sauce, wings offer a juicy, meaty contrast to the bread and cheese of the pizza itself. They're a high-value addition to any order.
Getting the Best Value with Deals and Foodhub Discounts 💰
Knowing what you want is only half the battle; getting the best price is the other! We always make sure that finding the ultimate takeaway feast, complete with all your favourite sides, is easy on your wallet.
When you're browsing our local takeaways, always look for two things:
Bundled Value: Many local independent restaurants offer "Dinner for Two" or "Family Feast" bundles. These packages almost always include a perfect combination of mains, rice, and sides (like Bombay Aloo or Prawn Crackers) for a significantly reduced price compared to ordering everything separately. These bulk deals are your friend.
Exclusive Foodhub Discounts: We work directly with local chefs to provide you with Foodhub discounts and promotions you won't find anywhere else. These often include free side dishes or big discounts when your order hits a certain total. Always keep an eye out for those banners promising the best offers near you.
The perfect takeaway experience is built on a strong foundation of spectacular sides and unbeatable value. Next time you order, remember these heroes, and don't forget to look for those fantastic offers near you!
Ready to find your perfect side and take advantage of great deals? Head over to foodhub.co.uk now!
