Cooking Felt Like A Good Idea Again Thanks To These 29 Indian Recipes

Cooking started feeling less like a punishment once these 29 Indian recipes showed up. Each one pulls its weight without acting fancy about it. There’s enough variety to keep things interesting without making you cry over ingredient lists. Honestly, they make microwave meals look a little nervous.

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.

Instant Pot Upma

A bowl of colorful upma, an indian dish made with rice and lentils, garnished with cashews and herbs. — Instant Pot Upma. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

If you're looking for a quick breakfast, Instant Pot Upma is a great choice. It's a popular dish that's both simple and filling. This recipe is ideal for busy mornings when you need a nutritious start. Plus, it's an easy way to bring a classic dish to your table.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Upma

Ragi Pancakes

For a healthier pancake option? Ragi Pancakes fit the bill perfectly. They are made from a nutritious grain that's often overlooked. These pancakes are a great way to switch up your breakfast routine.
Get the Recipe: Ragi Pancakes

Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot

Making things from scratch doesn’t get more rewarding than this. Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot eliminates any guesswork involved. It’s fresh, straightforward, and can be a starting point for endless dishes. Adding that homemade touch transforms everything.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot

Air Fryer Eggplant

Here's a tasty and easy veggie dish: Air Fryer Eggplant. Using an air fryer makes the eggplant crispy without needing much oil. This is a great side dish or snack for any meal. It's quick to make and always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant

Instant Pot Dalia Khichdi

Dalia Khichdi served in a dark blue bowl with visible chunks of vegetables and spices. — Instant Pot Dalia Khichdi. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Having a busy day? Instant Pot Dalia Khichdi is your go-to meal. It's healthy and hearty, perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. You'll appreciate how easy it is to prepare, especially when time's tight. One pot, minimal fuss, and it gets the job done without slowing you down.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Dalia Khichdi

Palak Paneer Stir Fry

For a veggie-packed option, Palak Paneer Stir Fry is fantastic. Spinach and paneer blend wonderfully in this easy-to-make dish. It’s satisfying without being heavy. Plus, it's a hit for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Palak Paneer Stir Fry

Instant Pot Methi Dal

A close-up of a bowl of creamy, methi dal with visible spices and herbs. — Instant Pot Methi Dal. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Want a nutritious meal without the hassle? Instant Pot Methi Dal is a winner. It's packed with leafy greens and lentils, making it both tasty and nourishing. Ideal for a quick and comforting lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Methi Dal

Balti Chicken

When you're craving something different, Balti Chicken is a must-try. It’s known for its rich and robust tastes. This dish is perfect for those who like spicy food. It's an exciting way to spice up your dinner.
Get the Recipe: Balti Chicken

Instant Pot Beetroot Palya

A bowl of diced Beetroot Palya garnished with herbs and sprinkled with salt, served on a dark textured background. — Instant Pot Beetroot Palya. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Need a quick side dish? Instant Pot Beetroot Palya is colorful and nutritious. It's a great way to include more veggies in your diet without much fuss. The convenience of the Instant Pot makes it even better, especially when you're short on time. Plus, it pairs well with just about anything.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beetroot Palya

Ridge Gourd Moong Dal

If you're looking for something light yet full of character, this dish checks that box. Ridge Gourd Moong Dal brings together a balanced combination of simple ingredients. Perfect for pairing with rice or roti without being overly complicated.
Get the Recipe: Ridge Gourd Moong Dal

Instant Pot Rajma Masala

A bowl of Rajma Masala, served on a rustic metal tray. — Instant Pot Rajma Masala. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Busy weeknights just got easier. Instant Pot Rajma Masala is your go-to for something protein-packed and hearty. It's perfect for those moments when you want comfort food without spending hours at the stove. This dish offers everything you need for a wholesome meal in no time.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Rajma Masala

Bengali Fish Curry

Seafood dishes don’t have to be complicated. Bengali Fish Curry combines simple ingredients with bold regional inspiration. A great choice for anyone who wants their meal to feel light yet fulfilling. It’s an awesome way to bring depth to fish recipes.
Get the Recipe: Bengali Fish Curry

Paneer Butter Masala Paneer Makhani

A bowl of Paneer Butter Masala with vibrant orange sauce garnished with herbs, served with naan bread in the background. — Paneer Butter Masala Paneer Makhani. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Some dishes are worth the hype, and this one delivers. Paneer Butter Masala Paneer Makhani lives up to everything you'd hope from a classic Indian favorite. It's bold, creamy, and pairs wonderfully with naan or rice. The way the ingredients come together creates a dish that feels just right for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Paneer Butter Masala Paneer Makhani

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.

One-pot meals always save the day. Instant Pot Vegetable Pulao is where simple ingredients shine together. It works as a standalone dish or complements other meals perfectly. Fast, flavorful, and ready to keep you full through a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Vegetable Pulao

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.

Pancakes without eggs? Completely doable. Eggless Banana Pancakes are here to prove otherwise. They’re sweet, soft, and perfect for your breakfast rotation. All you need is a short list of essentials to get them on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Banana Pancakes

Red Rice

Looking for a simple change from your usual staple? Red Rice offers variety and is packed with nutrients compared to its traditional counterpart. It’s a health-focused choice that doesn’t compromise on versatility. Whether for simple meals or something elaborate, it's ready to go.
Get the Recipe: Red Rice

Baingan Bharta

Want to switch things up at dinner? Baingan Bharta is smoky, smooth, and packed with personality in every bite. It’s easily a star when served with flatbread or rice. Perfect for shaking things up at dinner.
Get the Recipe: Baingan Bharta

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.

Light and quick meals are within reach. Rava Idli Recipe gives you an instant option that’s lighter than many other dishes. It’s quick to make and works well with simple chutneys or dips. A solid choice when you’re short on time but still want something fresh.
Get the Recipe: Rava Idli Recipe

Coconut Rice in Instant Pot

A bowl of cooked white rice garnished with cashews, curry leaves, and dried red chilies, displayed on a rustic table setting. — Coconut Rice in Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

For something fragrant and versatile, try Coconut Rice in Instant Pot. This dish goes well with so many other foods, adding a nice touch to your meal. It's simple to make and packs in great taste. You'll find it's a fantastic side to have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Rice in Instant Pot

Kadai Paneer

Tired of the same paneer dishes? Kadai Paneer combines rich and well-rounded spices effortlessly. It’s straightforward to pair with rice or bread for a complete meal. Definitely worth adding to the weekly rotation.
Get the Recipe: Kadai Paneer

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.

Slow-cooked lamb mixed with bold traditional spices makes Lamb Palak Saag Gosht a meal worth trying. It blends rich, hearty ingredients into one unforgettable dish. Perfectly balanced, this will make you look forward to eating leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Palak Saag Gosht

Bharwa Bhindi

Stuffed okra takes a new twist with Bharwa Bhindi, offering a simple yet flavorful option for vegetable lovers. It’s filling and packs in just enough texture to keep things interesting. This recipe is perfect if you want something quick but still different. Try pairing it with rice or flatbread for an extra kick.
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.

If you’re short on time, Lamb Curry Instant Pot is like having authenticity in fast-forward. It brings that deep, layered taste without the hours of slow cooking. Great for meal prep or last-minute cravings, it feels homemade regardless of the effort. This option is a game-changer on a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Curry Instant Pot

Ragi Rotti

For a healthy and hearty option, Ragi Rotti brings tradition straight to your plate. Made with ragi flour, this meal is loaded and satisfying while still light. It’s a go-to for those wanting something wholesome and filling. Top it with a little chutney or yogurt for extra balance.
Get the Recipe: Ragi Rotti

Chettinad Chicken

South Indian spices make Chettinad Chicken stand out from anything else in your dinner rotation. You get a spicy edge with just the right amount of heat and flavor. It delivers complexity but isn’t hard to pull off. This dish pairs well with rice or flatbreads, so you have options.
Get the Recipe: Chettinad Chicken

Veg Manchurian

Four Manchurian meatballs in tomato sauce garnished with sliced green onions, served in a white oblong dish. — Veg Manchurian. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Indo-Chinese at its best, Veg Manchurian is all about crunchy bites and tangy sauces. Perfect for when you’re in the mood for something fusion and loaded with texture. It’s great as a starter or a side, especially for casual meal plans. Make sure to demand seconds because one bowl is never enough.
Get the Recipe: Veg Manchurian

Palak Sambar

If you’re craving something warm and hearty, Palak Sambar won’t let you down. It’s comforting while still being rich with traditional ingredients. Perfect for a regular weekday dinner or something slightly special without extra effort. This pairs well with simple rice or just on its own.
Get the Recipe: Palak Sambar

Paniyaram

Bite-sized and full of variety, Paniyaram is an everyday favorite when done right. Slightly crispy outside and soft inside, they’re great as snacks or light meals. These are guaranteed to make you think differently about simple ingredients. Pair them with chutney to complete the experience.
Get the Recipe: Paniyaram

Indian Chicken Curry

When you’re in the mood for something classic, Indian Chicken Curry is always a solid choice. It balances comforting richness with just enough spice to keep you hooked. Pair it with rice, or flatbreads, or eat it as-is for a full eat-at-home vibe. This is a weekend-worthy meal you won’t regret making.
Get the Recipe: Indian Chicken Curry