Cook Smart Eat More With 29 Indian Recipes

Cooking with simple ingredients can bring big flavors to every meal. Spices and fresh herbs create rich and bold tastes in every dish. These 29 Indian recipes show how smart cooking can bring more delicious food to the table.

A bowl of Chicken Curry Home Style with pieces of meat and visible spices in a rich, orange sauce. — Indian Chicken Curry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Red Rice

Whipping up a hearty meal with Red Rice is always a good idea. Adding some traditional spices transforms it into a delicious dish. You'll love every bite, especially when paired with other favorites. It's a healthy option that's both filling and enjoyable. Perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Red Rice

Baingan Bharta

There's something comforting about a well-made Baingan Bharta. The smoky flavor paired with spices creates a fantastic experience. You can relish it with roti or naan, adding variety to your meals. It's a straightforward recipe with incredible depth. Ideal for those looking to enjoy traditional flavors.
Get the Recipe: Baingan Bharta

Instant Pot Vegetable Pulao

A close-up of a bowl of Vegetable Pulao containing rice mixed with chunks of carrots and cauliflower. — Instant Pot Vegetable Pulao. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Preparing Instant Pot Vegetable Pulao ensures a quick and delicious meal. The ease of using an Instant Pot makes this dish even more inviting. Filling your kitchen with aromatic spices, you'll appreciate how everything comes together effortlessly. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or with some side accompaniments.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Vegetable Pulao

Rava Idli Recipe

A row of idli, a traditional south indian steamed rice cake, served on a green banana leaf. — Rava Idli Recipe. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Achieving the perfect Rava Idli Recipe is simpler than you might think. These soft, spongy idlis are a treat at any time of the day. Often paired with chutney or sambar, they bring variety to your meal planning. Effortless to prepare, these idlis offer a great way to enjoy something light yet tasty.
Get the Recipe: Rava Idli Recipe

Eggless Banana Pancakes

Stack of bananapancakes with a pat of butter on top, served on a plate. — Eggless Banana Pancakes. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Creating Eggless Banana Pancakes can be a fun breakfast activity. The natural sweetness of bananas shines through in every bite. Easy to make, these pancakes offer a healthy start to the day. Pair with your favorite toppings for a complete meal. Even the little ones enjoy these treats.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Banana Pancakes

Kadai Paneer

Putting together a tasty Kadai Paneer is easier than it seems. The rich, spicy flavors make it a must-try for paneer lovers. Enjoy it with naan or rice for a fulfilling meal. Cooking this dish is a rewarding experience, bringing a restaurant-like taste to your home. Ideal for dinner parties or family meals.
Get the Recipe: Kadai Paneer

Adai Dosa

A crispy, folded masala dosa served on a black plate with a side of coconut chutney. — Adai Dosa. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Enjoying a crispy Adai Dosa with a side of chutney can be a wonderful experience. Made with a mix of lentils, it’s a protein-packed choice. Preparing this dosa is simple yet tasty. Perfect for breakfast or a light dinner. It brings diversity to everyday meals.
Get the Recipe: Adai Dosa

Mango Rice

A close-up of a blue bowl filled with yellow spiced rice garnished with peanuts and herbs. — Mango Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Crafting a sweet and tangy Mango Rice dish can change up your meal routine. The fruity twist adds a unique flavor that's both refreshing and tasty. Pair it with some yogurt or raita for extra comfort. It's an easy dish that brings a bit of excitement to your plate. Excellent for a quick lunch or dinner fix.
Get the Recipe: Mango Rice

Gujarati Kadhi

Making Gujarati Kadhi is an easy way to enjoy traditional flavors. Its slightly sweet and tangy nature complements many dishes. Enjoy with rice or as a soup for something different. Simple ingredients come together to create something special. Perfect for those who love a creamy texture in their meals.
Get the Recipe: Gujarati Kadhi

Lamb Palak Saag Gosht

A bowl of Lamb Palak, an indian dish made of paneer cheese and spinach sauce, served in a metal bowl on a wooden table. — Lamb Palak Saag Gosht. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Cooking Lamb Palak Saag Gosht combines tender meat with nutritious greens. The blend of spices makes it a gourmet dish at home. Pair it with naan or rice for a complete meal. It's a hearty recipe that's rich in flavor and nutrients. Great for impressing guests or enjoying a special dinner.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Palak Saag Gosht

Bharwa Bhindi

Stuffed okra dishes can jazz up your meals easily. Pair Bharwa Bhindi with roti or rice for a change from the usual veggies. It’s an appealing way to include more greens on your plate. Kids often find it interesting too. Give it a try to make vegetable time more fun.
Get the Recipe: Bharwa Bhindi

Lamb Curry Instant Pot

A bowl of traditional indian Lamb Curry garnished with chopped cilantro, served in a metallic dish. — Lamb Curry Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Making a hearty dish quickly is doable with an Instant Pot. When you cook Lamb Curry Instant Pot, the meat turns out tender, and the flavors blend well. Serve it with rice or naan, and dinner is ready before you know it. Perfect for those busy evenings when homemade is still the goal.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Curry Instant Pot

Naan Recipe

naan ingredients with labels. — Naan Recipe. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Homemade bread always tastes better. Naan Recipe is straightforward and great for pairing with various curries. You can keep it simple or add some garlic for a twist. Home-cooked naan is fluffier and fresher than store-bought options. It’s an excellent addition to any meal, making it more filling and fun.
Get the Recipe: Naan Recipe

Beans Palya Beans Poriyal

A bowl of chopped Beans Palya mixed with spices, served on a dining table. — Beans Palya Beans Poriyal. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Green beans can be more exciting. Beans Palya or Beans Poriyal is a quick and easy side dish. It fits well with any main meal and adds a nice touch of green to your plate. Mild in flavor, it’s something everyone can enjoy. Simple recipes like this help you eat more veggies effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Beans Palya Beans Poriyal

Mango Dal

A plate of white rice paired with yellow dal garnished with chili peppers and curry leaves. — Mango Dal. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Traditional dal can get a new twist with fruit. Mango Dal combines lentils and mangoes for a unique taste. It’s a refreshing change and pairs well with roti or rice. Introduce new flavors to your meals this way. It's an interesting way to enjoy a classic dish with a fruity note.
Get the Recipe: Mango Dal

Shahi Paneer Instant Pot

Making a restaurant-style dish at home just got easier. Shahi Paneer Instant Pot allows you to enjoy creamy paneer without much fuss. Perfect for those special nights or when you want to treat yourself. Pair it with naan or rice for a complete meal. You’ll love how easy and tasty it is.
Get the Recipe: Shahi Paneer Instant Pot

Cabbage Palya

Light dishes make for quick meals. Cabbage Palya is easy to prepare and pairs well with rice or chapati. It’s a subtle yet tasty way to add some greens to your diet. Simple cooking can indeed be delicious. It's perfect for when you want something nutritious.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Palya

Kosambari

A bowl of sambar, a traditional south indian lentil soup with mixed vegetables and herbs, served in a stainless steel bowl. — Kosambari. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Fresh salads can be delicious. Kosambari mixes lentils and veggies for a healthy, crunchy side dish. It’s great for a quick snack or a nutritious addition to your meal. Introducing more raw veggies to your diet has never been more straightforward. Enjoy making simple, healthy choices fun.
Get the Recipe: Kosambari

Majjige Huli

A bowl of creamy yellow soup garnished with herbs and oil on top of a cloth. — Majjige Huli. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Yogurt-based dishes offer a new way to enjoy creamy textures. Majjige Huli is mild yet flavorful and pairs nicely with rice. It’s a comforting addition to any meal. Exploring different uses of yogurt can be quite enjoyable. Add this dish to your list of go-to recipes for something light and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Majjige Huli

Chicken Tikka Naanwich

A platter of freshly made, golden-brown Naan served with a side of dipping sauce. — Chicken Tikka Naanwich. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Regular sandwiches can get a makeover. Chicken Tikka Naanwich uses naan instead of bread and a delicious chicken filling. Perfect for a quick lunch or easy dinner. It’s a fun way to change your usual sandwich routine. Keeps the meals exciting and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Naanwich

Peas Paratha Matar Paratha

Close-up of a stack of Peas Paratha, one partly unfolded to reveal a filling of spicy cauliflower mixture. — Peas Paratha Matar Paratha. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Swap your usual bread for something new with Peas Paratha Matar Paratha. These stuffed flatbreads are a filling option for any meal, blending the mild sweetness of peas with your meal routine. They're great on their own but can also be enjoyed with yogurt or chutney to mix things up.
Get the Recipe: Peas Paratha Matar Paratha

Lamb Vindaloo

A bowl of rich beef curry garnished with cilantro, accompanied by a piece of naan bread partially dipped in the sauce. — Lamb Vindaloo. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Spice up your dinner routine with a hearty meal like Lamb Vindaloo. It’s not just another spice-heavy dish; it brings together lamb and a bold sauce for a combination that's hard to resist. When paired with rice or naan, it’s an easy main course that feels complete.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Vindaloo

Kitchari Instant Pot

A bowl of yellow rice garnished with herbs and spices, placed on a red mat with a glass of orange juice in the background. — Kitchari Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Feeling like you need something warm and fulfilling, Kitchari Instant Pot could be your next go-to meal. With rice and lentils coming together, it’s a comfort dish that's easy on the stomach. The instant pot does the heavy lifting, making it a quick option for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Kitchari Instant Pot

Basmati Rice

Upgrade your meals with Basmati Rice as a dependable side. Its unique aroma and long grains make it a staple that complements nearly any Indian dish. Light and perfect for soaking up sauces, it’s a kitchen essential worth perfecting.
Get the Recipe: Basmati Rice

Dal Palak Spinach Dal

A bowl of Dal Palak, spiced and cooked to a thick consistency, served on a woven mat. — Dal Palak Spinach Dal. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Add more greens to your meal with Dal Palak Spinach Dal. The mix of spinach and lentils creates a nutritious dish with minimal fuss. Pair it with rice or bread for a balanced plate when time is of the essence. It’s an easy way to bring healthy options into your routine.
Get the Recipe: Dal Palak Spinach Dal

Instant Pot Jeera Rice

A bowl of cooked Jeera Rice, garnished, presented on a textured grey background. — Instant Pot Jeera Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Simplifying your side dishes can start with Instant Pot Jeera Rice. Cumin seeds give regular rice a modest twist that pairs well with any main dish. Quick to make and full of flavor, it's a smart fix for busy days. It's another option you’ll want in your meal planning arsenal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Jeera Rice

Masala Mac and Cheese

Ever thought classic comfort food could use an upgrade, Masala Mac and Cheese does just that. Infusing spices into your usual mac and cheese brings an Indian flair that's both surprising and delicious. Perfect for those who want to expand their dish repertoire while keeping things smart and simple.
Get the Recipe: Masala Mac and Cheese

Instant Pot Vegetable Korma

A bowl of colorful mixed vegetable curry garnished with fresh cilantro, served with flatbread on the side. — Instant Pot Vegetable Korma. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Take a break from routine dishes with Instant Pot Vegetable Korma. Featuring a mix of vegetables in a creamy sauce, it's a quick way to introduce variety. Let the Instant Pot ease your weeknight cooking efforts while delivering a delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Vegetable Korma

Indian Chicken Curry

Shake up dinner time with Indian Chicken Curry. Its rich blend of spices and tender chicken makes it a go-to meal for any occasion. When paired with rice or naan, it’s a complete meal without much effort. Perfect for those evenings when you're short on time but still want something homemade.
Get the Recipe: Indian Chicken Curry