If your taste buds are stuck in a rut and you’re craving something that packs a punch, Indian cuisine has got your back. Indian food is all about the art of balancing heat, sweetness, sourness, and richness in a way that’s nothing short of magical. So, there is no need for a plane ticket, as here are 20 recipes that will transport you straight to India.
Spicy Vegetable Biryani
Biryani is one of the most beloved dishes in India, and it is often served during weddings and festivals. This dish blends rice with numerous vegetables, like carrots, peas, and potatoes, and is seasoned with warm spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.
Savory Paneer Tikka
Paneer Tikka has become the go-to vegetarian option at most Indian barbecue parties. The chunks of paneer are marinated in a mix of creamy yogurt and spices and then grilled until charred. Served with a mint chutney, this dish adds a smoky, spiced punch to any meal.
Creamy Butter Chicken
Craving something rich and comforting? Start with marinated chicken in yogurt and spices, then sear it until golden. In a buttery pan, cook onions, garlic, and more spice, then stir in tomato puree. Let it simmer, swirl in cream, and toss the chicken back in.
Sweet And Sour Aloo Gobi
Sweet and sour aloo gobi is that comfort dish you didn’t know you needed. You toss potatoes and cauliflower into a hot pan with cumin, turmeric, and ginger. Allow them to soak up some tomatoes, a dash of vinegar, and a tablespoon of sugar. Lastly, serve it with warm roti.
Traditional Chole Bhature
It starts with overnight soaked chickpeas simmered in a spicy gravy—think onions, tomatoes, garlic, and all the good masalas. While that bubbles away, bhature dough gets rolled and fried until puffed and golden. You tear into one, scoop up the chole, and yes, it’s messy, delicious, and totally worth it.
Prawn Malai Curry
This Bengali dish is rich in coconut milk, with prawns soaking up the sweet and spicy flavors. The mildness of the coconut contrasts beautifully with the heat of the spices, making it a favorite in coastal regions of India. Serve it with rice for a perfect pairing.
Dosa With Coconut Chutney
Dosas are the crispy, golden superheroes of South Indian cuisine! These savory pancakes, made from fermented rice and lentil batter, are thin and crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. While the traditional masala dosa is stuffed with spiced potatoes, you can switch it up with a variety of fillings.
Punjabi Rajma
A hearty, comforting dish, rajma consists of overnight-soaked red kidney beans simmered in a spicy, tomato-based gravy. It’s a dish across India, especially in Punjab, where it’s often served with steamed rice. It’s a nutritious meal, perfect for a family dinner.
Bhel Puri
Bhel Puri is a quintessential Mumbai street food that balances crunchy puffed rice with fresh vegetables, tamarind chutney, and a hint of spice. It’s a quick snack that’s ideal for those craving a crunchy, flavorful bite. Try making it at home for a fresh, personalized twist.
Hyderabadi Mutton Korma
A fragrant curry, Hyderabadi mutton korma features slow-cooked mutton in a yogurt-based gravy infused with the bold flavors of saffron and cinnamon. A luxurious dish reserved for special occasions, it’s a must-try for those interested in the depth of Mughlai cuisine.
Gobi Manchurian
For this dish, you start by coating cauliflower florets in a spiced batter, then deep-fry them until golden and crisp. In a hot wok, garlic, ginger, and chilies hit sizzling oil. Add soy sauce, ketchup, vinegar, and spring onions. Lastly, toss the crispy gobi in by coating every piece.
Mango Lassi
Refresh your senses with the cool, creamy goodness of Mango Lassi. This drink blends ripe mangoes with yogurt, creating a smooth, tropical treat that’s perfect for balancing the heat of a spicy meal. It’s not just a drink; it’s a sweet, fruity escape in a glass.
Masoor Dal
Masoor Dal, made from red lentils, is one of the simplest and most nutritious dishes in Indian cuisine. Cooked with turmeric, cumin, and coriander, it offers a filling meal. Such a protein-rich dish pairs beautifully with basmati rice or roti for a wholesome dinner.
Pani Puri
Get ready for an explosion of flavors with Pani Puri! These tiny crispy puris are filled with spicy potatoes and chickpeas and then dunked into tangy tamarind water. Each bite is a burst of super sweet, sour, and spicy goodness, making Pani Puri the ultimate street food experience!
Aloo Paratha
Aloo Paratha is a popular Indian flatbread stuffed with spiced mashed potatoes. The dough is made from whole wheat flour, rolled out into a circle, and then stuffed with a flavorful filling of mashed potatoes, onions, and various spices. Then, the paratha is pan-fried in ghee or oil.
Sambar
A quintessential South Indian dish, sambar is a flavorful lentil-based stew made with tamarind, vegetables, and spices. It’s a staple in many homes, served with dosas, idlis, or rice. Hence, its balance of tanginess and spice makes it an essential part of the region’s cuisine.
Keema Mutton
Keema Mutton is a flavorful, savory dish made with minced mutton cooked with a blend of aromatic spices. The meat is simmered with onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and a variety of spices. Often served with rice, roti, or naan, Keema Mutton is a popular comfort food in South Asian cuisine.
Malai Kofta
Indulge in the creamy, luscious world of Malai Kofta! This dish features deep-fried balls of paneer or vegetables swimming in a rich, spiced tomato gravy. It’s a festive treat, ideal for special occasions, and is sure to impress with its luxurious texture and decadent flavors.
Dhokla
Dhokla is a traditional savory snack from Gujarat, India, made from fermented rice and chickpea flour. Often garnished with coriander and grated coconut, Dhokla is typically served with tangy chutneys like tamarind or cilantro-mint.
Tandoori Chicken
Tandoori Chicken is marinated (minimum for 6 hours) in a batter of yogurt, spices, and herbs, then grilled in a tandoor (clay oven). The result is tender, smoky chicken with a vibrant red color and rich flavor. Pair it with naan or a cool cucumber raita for a perfect meal.
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