Thali literally translates to a round plate used for serving meals. Traditionally a metal plate made of stainless steel, brass or even silver is used for serving the meal. Different vegetables and meat in the form of curries and stir fries as well as lentils/dals are served in small bowls and roti/flatbread along with rice is kept directly on the plate. Usually, the thali consists of both main course and dessert and often includes salads and starters.

I absolutely love serving lunch or dinner to my family in the form of a thali. Whenever I can, I put together the regular dishes I cook as a thali. My typical thali is a combination of dal, vegetables/meat, rice, roti, salad, raita, and dessert. I think it’s a beautiful way of presenting my day-to-day cooking.

Here are some thalis I put up regularly. I hope you love them as much as we do and it inspires you to cook and serve a thali for your next meal.