Side dish

Side dish

A side dish is a food item that accompanies the main course or main dish at a meal. Side dishes such as salad, bread, rice, potatoes, or vegetables are commonly included in a meal. They are often served in a separate dish, hence the term "side dish".

History

The concept of a side dish has been present in many cultures throughout history. In Western cuisine, side dishes have been a staple part of meals since the Middle Ages. In Asian cuisine, side dishes known as banchan are a fundamental part of Korean meals.

Types of Side Dishes

There are many types of side dishes, which can be categorized by the main ingredient, preparation method, or cultural origin. Some common types of side dishes include:

• Vegetables: These can be served raw, cooked, or pickled. Examples include salad, steamed vegetables, and pickles.
• Starches: These include foods like bread, rice, potatoes, and pasta. They are often served to provide energy and make the meal more filling.
• Proteins: These can include beans, tofu, or eggs. They are often included in side dishes to provide additional protein to the meal.
• Fruits: These can be served fresh, cooked, or dried. Examples include fruit salad, baked apples, and raisins.

Cultural Variations

Different cultures have different traditional side dishes. For example, in American cuisine, common side dishes include mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and baked beans. In Italian cuisine, side dishes often include pasta, polenta, and risotto. In Japanese cuisine, side dishes often include miso soup, pickled vegetables, and rice.

See Also

• Appetizer
• Dessert
• Main course
• Meal structure in Western culture

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