Posted on May 7th, 2024

At Basil Indian and Thai Grill, we believe that food is more than just sustenance—it's an experience that nourishes the body and soul. Located in the heart of Montclair, our restaurant is dedicated to offering the finest Indian and Thai dishes, crafted with love and passion by our talented chefs. In this blog post, we'll take you on a culinary journey through the vibrant and diverse flavors of Indian cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer to Indian food, we promise you'll find something to tantalize your taste buds.

The Allure of Indian Appetizers

Indian appetizers are known for their bold flavors and aromatic spices, that set the stage for an unforgettable meal. At Basil Indian and Thai Grill, we offer a variety of starters that capture the essence of Indian culinary traditions.

Tandoori Wings

One of our most popular appetizers, Tandoori Wings, are marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, then grilled to perfection in a tandoor oven. The result is juicy, tender wings with a smoky flavor that will leave you craving more. These wings are not just an appetizer; they're a taste of Indian tradition on a plate.

Pair these with our house-made mint chutney for an added layer of freshness. The combination of the spicy marinade and the cooling chutney creates a harmonious balance that sets the tone for the rest of your meal.

Samosa Chaat

Samosa Chaat is a delightful street food favorite that combines crispy samosas with a medley of tangy and spicy chutneys. Our samosas are stuffed with a savory mixture of potatoes and peas, then topped with tamarind and mint chutneys, yogurt, and a sprinkle of chaat masala.

This appetizer offers a burst of flavors and textures in every bite. The crispy samosa, creamy yogurt, and tangy chutneys come together to create a perfect harmony of taste. It's no wonder that Samosa Chaat is a beloved dish among our regulars.

Delightful Salads

Indian cuisine is not just about heavy curries and rich dishes. Our selection of salads offers a refreshing change of pace, featuring fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.

Thai Green Papaya Salad (Vegan)

Our Thai Green Papaya Salad is a refreshing and light option that bursts with flavors. Made with shredded green papaya, carrots, tomatoes, and green beans, it's tossed in a tangy lime dressing that balances sweet, sour, and spicy notes perfectly.

This vegan salad is a great way to start your meal on a light and healthy note. The crisp vegetables and zesty dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the richer dishes that follow, making it a perfect appetizer for those who prefer a lighter start.

Grilled Corn Kachumber Salad (Vegan)

A twist on the classic Indian Kachumber, our Grilled Corn Kachumber Salad features char-grilled corn kernels mixed with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Tossed with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice, this salad is a crunchy, zesty delight.

The smoky flavor of the grilled corn adds depth to the fresh vegetables, while the lemon juice and herbs bring a burst of brightness. It's a perfect accompaniment to any meal, providing a fresh and vibrant counterpoint to the bold flavors of our main dishes.

Savory Indo-Chinese Creations

Indo-Chinese cuisine is a fusion of Indian and Chinese culinary traditions, resulting in dishes that are both flavorful and unique. Our selection of Indo-Chinese rice and noodles showcases this delightful blend.

Szechuan Fried Rice

Our Szechuan Fried Rice is a spicy and aromatic dish that combines the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with the comfort of fried rice. Loaded with vegetables and infused with Szechuan peppercorns and chili sauce, this dish is perfect for those who love a bit of heat.

Each grain of rice is perfectly cooked and coated with the spicy sauce, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite. The vegetables add a satisfying crunch, making this dish a favorite among our regulars.

Hakka Noodle

Hakka Noodles are a staple of Indo-Chinese cuisine, featuring stir-fried noodles tossed with fresh vegetables and a savory blend of soy sauce and spices. This dish is simple yet packed with flavor, offering a delightful mix of textures and tastes.

The noodles are cooked to perfection, retaining a slight chewiness that complements the crisp vegetables. The savory sauce ties everything together, making Hakka Noodles a must-try for noodle lovers.

Tandoori Grill Delights

The tandoor oven is central to Indian cooking, imparting a unique smoky flavor to meats and vegetables. Our Tandoori Grill section features dishes that showcase this traditional cooking method.

Bhatti Ka Murgh (Tandoori Chicken)

Bhatti Ka Murgh, also known as Tandoori Chicken, is a classic Indian dish that features chicken marinated in a blend of yogurt, spices, and herbs, then grilled in a tandoor oven. The result is juicy, tender chicken with a smoky, charred exterior.

This dish is a true delight for the senses, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Serve it with naan or rice, and you've got a meal that's both satisfying and delicious.

Paneer Tikka

For our vegetarian guests, Paneer Tikka is a must-try. Chunks of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) are marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture, skewered, and grilled to perfection. The result is tender, flavorful paneer with a slight char that enhances its natural taste.

Each bite of Paneer Tikka is a burst of spices and smokiness, making it a favorite among those who love tandoori dishes. It's perfect as an appetizer or a main course, showcasing the best of Indian grilling traditions.

Thai Appetizers That Excite

In addition to our Indian offerings, we also serve a variety of Thai appetizers that are sure to excite your taste buds. These dishes are crafted with the same dedication to flavor and quality as our Indian fare.

Veg Spring Roll

Crispy and golden, our veggie Spring Rolls are filled with a mix of fresh vegetables and glass noodles. These rolls are carefully wrapped and fried to perfection, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Served with a tangy dipping sauce, these spring rolls are a light and tasty appetizer that perfectly complements our Thai and Indian dishes. They provide a fresh, crisp start to any meal.

Chicken Dumplings

Our Chicken Dumplings are a popular Thai appetizer that is both comforting and delicious. Filled with a savory mixture of minced chicken and vegetables, these dumplings are steamed or pan-fried to perfection.

Served with a soy-based dipping sauce, each dumpling offers a tender and flavorful bite that melts in your mouth. Whether you're enjoying them as a starter or a snack, our Chicken Dumplings are a must-try.

Thai Classics to Savor

Thai cuisine is known for its balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. Our selection of Thai classics brings these vibrant flavors to your table.

Chicken Satay

Indulge in the rich and nutty flavors of our Chicken Satay, a classic Thai appetizer. Marinated chicken skewers are grilled to perfection, resulting in juicy and tender meat with a slight char.

Served with a creamy peanut sauce, our chicken satay is a perfect blend of savory and nutty flavors. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes, making it an ideal start to any Thai meal.

Pad Thai

Our Pad Thai is a quintessential Thai dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. Stir-fried rice noodles are tossed with shrimp or chicken, eggs, tofu, and a tamarind-based sauce that perfectly balances sweet, sour, and savory flavors.

Garnished with crushed peanuts, bean sprouts, and a squeeze of lime, our Pad Thai is a delightful blend of textures and tastes. It's a must-try for anyone looking to experience the true essence of Thai cuisine.

Comforting Chicken Entrees

Chicken is a staple in Indian cuisine, and our chicken entrees are crafted to provide comfort and satisfaction. These dishes are rich in flavor and are perfect for a hearty meal.

Chicken Tikka Masala

Our Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that combines tender pieces of chicken tikka with a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce. Infused with aromatic spices and herbs, this dish is perfectly balanced in flavor.

Served with naan or rice, our Chicken Tikka Masala promises a hearty and delicious meal that will leave you satisfied. It's true comfort food that showcases the best of Indian culinary traditions.

Flavorful Vegetarian Entrees

Indian cuisine offers a wealth of vegetarian dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying. Our selection of vegetarian entrees is crafted with the same dedication to quality and taste.

Palak Paneer

Palak Paneer is a classic North Indian dish that combines tender paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with a creamy spinach gravy. The paneer is simmered in a rich, green spinach sauce infused with aromatic spices.

Each bite of Palak Paneer offers a perfect blend of creamy, earthy, and spicy flavors, making it a favorite among vegetarians. Paired with naan or rice, this dish is a satisfying and healthy choice for any meal.

Conclusion

At Basil Indian and Thai Grill, we are passionate about bringing you the rich and diverse flavors of Indian cuisine. Our menu is crafted with love and dedication, ensuring that each dish is a delightful experience for your taste buds. Whether you're a fan of spicy appetizers, hearty entrees, or refreshing salads, we have something to satisfy every craving.

We invite you to explore our menu and discover the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine. Visit us in Montclair for an unforgettable dining experience, or order takeout and delivery for the same great taste at home. If you have any questions or would like to make a reservation, please reach out to us at (973) 939-5574. We look forward to serving you!