Beyond Butter Chicken: Modern Indian Dishes You Need to Try at Masala Bar & Grill

When people think of Indian cuisine, butter chicken often steals the spotlight. But there's a vibrant world of modern Indian dishes waiting for you at Masala Bar & Grill in Berwick. From hearty vegetarian favourites to show-stopping desserts, each plate tells a story of flavour, tradition, and innovation.

Let's dive into some must-try dishes you shouldn't miss.

1. Paneer Do Pyaza

• Description: Cottage cheese cubes simmered in a medium-spicy onion gravy, with slow-cooked onions adding a deep sweetness.

• Why You Should Try It: If you love balance — the subtle sweetness of onions against creamy paneer — this dish will become your go-to.

2. Channa Masala

• Description: Hearty chickpeas cooked in a bold, spicy, tomato-based sauce that's both comforting and energising.

• Why You Should Try It: Packed with protein and big on flavour, it's a perfect choice for a nourishing, meat-free meal.

3. Bhindi Masala

• Description: Tender okra sautéed with onions and tomatoes, lightly spiced to preserve its freshness and crunch.

• Why You Should Try It: For those who prefer a lighter dish that doesn't sacrifice flavour, Bhindi Masala delivers beautifully.

4. Dal Makhni

• Description: Black lentils slow-cooked until silky smooth, enriched with butter, cream, onions, and tomatoes.

• Why You Should Try It: This is pure comfort food — creamy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings.

5. Mix Bhajia

• Description: Golden-fried fritters made with chickpea flour and filled with onions, spinach, and potatoes.

• Why You Should Try It: Ideal for sharing, these crispy snacks are perfect to nibble on with drinks or as a starter.

6. Aloo Tikki Chaat

• Description: Crisp potato patties layered with spicy chickpeas, tangy yoghurt, tamarind and mint sauces, and fresh veggies.

• Why You Should Try It: This dish is a festival of flavours and textures — crunchy, creamy, spicy, and sweet all at once.

7. Kulcha Chole

• Description: Fluffy flatbreads stuffed with a tasty potato and paneer mixture, served alongside spicy chickpeas.

• Why You Should Try It: It's a full meal in itself — hearty, filling, and bursting with authentic Punjabi flavours.

8. Sizzling Chocolate Brownie

• Description: A decadent triple chocolate brownie served hot on a sizzler plate with melting vanilla ice cream and rich chocolate sauce.

• Why You Should Try It: For dessert lovers, it's a must — the crackling sizzle and molten chocolate create pure magic at your table.

A Quick Guide to Must-Try Modern Indian Dishes at Masala Bar & Grill

Dish Name What Makes It Special Key Ingredients Perfect Pairing Fun Fact
Paneer Do Pyaza Double dose of onions gives it a sweet-spicy balance Cottage cheese, onions, spices Garlic naan or jeera rice "Do Pyaza" means "twice onions" in Hindi.
Channa Masala A robust chickpea curry packed with spices Chickpeas, tomato, onion, spice mix Basmati rice or bhature Chickpeas are packed with plant-based protein.
Bhindi Masala Light, fresh, and packed with the goodness of okra Okra, onion, tomato, spices Tandoori roti or plain paratha Okra is also known as "lady's finger".
Dal Makhni Rich, creamy lentils simmered for hours for deep flavour Black lentils, cream, butter, tomato Butter naan or steamed rice A North Indian classic made famous by Punjabi dhabas.
Mix Bhajia Crispy, savoury fritters that are perfect for sharing Onion, spinach, potato, chickpea flour Masala chai or mint chutney Bhajias are often enjoyed during rainy days in India.
Aloo Tikki Chaat A street food favourite with a burst of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavours Potato patties, chickpeas, yoghurt, chutneys Sweet lassi or masala chai "Chaat" means "to lick" in Hindi — because it’s that good!
Kulcha Chole Comfort food at its best with soft stuffed bread and spicy chickpeas Kulcha (bread), potato, cottage cheese, chickpeas Raita or fresh lime soda Amritsar is known as the birthplace of this dish.
Sizzling Chocolate Brownie A dramatic dessert finale with chocolatey goodness served piping hot Chocolate brownie, vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce Cappuccino or masala chai The sizzling brownie trend started in India’s cafés.

Book Your Table Today

There's much more to Indian cuisine than just butter chicken — and at Masala Bar & Grill, you get to experience it all. Whether you're craving a classic dal, a street-style chaat, or a chocolatey grand finale, our carefully curated menu is designed to surprise and delight.

Located in Berwick, we offer 20% OFF, exceptional Indian Food Catering, and a warm welcome for every guest. Enjoy the authentic flavours, rich aromas, and vibrant spices that make Indian cuisine unforgettable.