Crave-worthy Indian Food Starts With 27 Simple Recipes

Indian food has a way of bringing bold flavors to the table with an incredible variety. Imagine having 27 simple recipes that make it easy to enjoy these crave-worthy dishes. Each recipe can be a celebration of spices and ingredients that work together to create something special.

A bowl of traditional balti chicken garnished with cilantro, served next to naan bread on a blue tablecloth. — Balti Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Palak Paneer Stir Fry

There's an Indian dish that brings spinach and cheese together in a quick frying pan session. Palak Paneer Stir Fry mixes creamy paneer chunks with vibrant green spinach. It's a tasty combo of flavors and colors that works wonderfully for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Palak Paneer Stir Fry

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.

Get ready for a dish that celebrates the rich, earthy taste of beetroots. Using the Instant Pot Beetroot Palya, you can have this Indian classic prepared in no time. It brings together the natural sweetness of beetroots with spices, serving up a vibrant side dish.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beetroot Palya

Ragi Pancakes

There's a fun, nutritious way to enjoy pancakes by adding a hearty twist. Ragi Pancakes are made from finger millet, incorporating whole-grain goodness into your breakfast. They're easy to whip up and give a unique taste that's great for those looking for a change.
Get the Recipe: Ragi Pancakes

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.

Rice dishes can often become the heart of a meal when they're treated with creativity. Coconut Rice in Instant Pot weaves the creamy sweetness of coconut into fluffy rice, making it an easy comfort food option. It’s an inviting and dish for those seeking a bit of tropical flair in their meal.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Rice in Instant Pot

Air Fryer Eggplant

Discover a new twist to enjoying eggplant with a crispy texture on the outside. Air Fryer Eggplant takes this vegetable to another level by giving it a golden, crunchy finish. No need for excessive oil frying; instead, the air fryer handles the crispy detail.
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.

Warm up to a classic Indian dish that's both nutritious and flavorful with every spoonful. Instant Pot Dalia Khichdi merges cracked wheat with pulses and vegetables, creating a dish that's hearty and delicious. Whether for lunch or dinner, it serves as the perfect complete meal to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Dalia Khichdi

Tomato Rice

Make a simple ingredient like rice by cooking it with rich tomato flavors. Tomato Rice blends those bold tomato notes with a touch of spice to create an exciting dish. It shines both as a standalone meal and a delicious companion to other Indian sides.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Rice

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.

Breakfast can be made exciting with classic Indian flavors infused into semolina. Meet Instant Pot Upma, which offers a quick way to enjoy this treat. It makes a warming start to your day or a snack for later on. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve that warm, comforting texture without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Upma

Bhagara Baingan

Eggplant gets a flavorful makeover in this traditional dish. Bhagara Baingan comes with eggplants coated in a spiced peanut and sesame paste. This is an ideal way to appreciate eggplant's role in Indian cuisine. Prepare to make a dish where remarkable flavors do the talking.
Get the Recipe: Bhagara Baingan

Instant Pot Dal Fry

Steamed white rice paired with yellow lentil curry, placed in a white plate viewed from above. — Instant Pot Dal Fry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Turning lentils into a deliciously thick stew is often easier than you might think. Instant Pot Dal Fry is fragrant, warmly spiced, and all done in practically one pot. Whether a main attraction or side dish, it's certainly a flavourful addition to any spread.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Dal Fry

Bengali Tadka Green Moong Dal

A bowl of Bengali Tadka garnished with fresh cilantro, served with a side of sliced red onions. — Bengali Tadka Green Moong Dal. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Revel in the magic of spices blending with green moong dal for a dish bursting with flavors. Bengali Tadka Green Moong Dal brings together tradition with ease, offering a straightforward recipe full of taste. Ideal when simplicity is key and hunger needs to be fulfilled swiftly.
Get the Recipe: Bengali Tadka Green Moong Dal

Instant Pot Chickpea Pulao

A close-up of a plate filled with Chickpea Pulao. — Instant Pot Chickpea Pulao. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Start with something simple and comforting with a warm mix of spices and soft chickpeas that make for a nourishing meal. Instant Pot Chickpea Pulao is perfect when you want something quick yet flavorful. It offers just the right balance of spices and texture, all coming together seamlessly.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chickpea Pulao

Coconut Milk Pulao

Begin with a rich blend that fills the room with the soothing aroma of coconut. Coconut Milk Pulao works magic as the comfort of coconut combines effortlessly with rice. A simple choice for when you want something delicious and different. It stands as a dish that adds a touch of warmth to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Milk Pulao

Instant Pot Millet Khichdi

A close-up image of a bowl of khichdi, a traditional indian dish made of rice and lentils mixed with vegetables and spices. — Instant Pot Millet Khichdi. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

A comfort food champion, providing warmth and heartiness in each bite with its blend of millet, lentils, and spices. Instant Pot Millet Khichdi is perfect for when ease and nourishment are a must. It’s a dish that never fails to bring a feeling of home-style goodness to your table.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Millet Khichdi

Bhindi Kadhi

Spice up your meal with a twist. Bhindi Kadhi blends tender okra with a tangy yogurt gravy. A unique take on traditional kadhi, making it interesting and fun. Serve it with some plain rice or parathas. You’ll be hooked on this new variation.
Get the Recipe: Bhindi Kadhi

Instant Pot Cabbage Dal

Jump into a textural wonder with a dish that marries the distinct layers of cabbage and creamy dal. Instant Pot Cabbage Dal shines through in its simplicity, making an easy meal on a busy day. Bursting with familiar flavors, it brings a level of satisfaction that's hard to match.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Cabbage Dal

Papaya Potato Curry

Mixing up fruits and veggies in one pot is a delight. Papaya Potato Curry is both sweet and tasty. A unique combination that surprises your palate with its balanced flavors. Serve it with rice or your favorite flatbread. A creative dish that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Papaya Potato Curry

Black-Eyed Peas Curry in Instant Pot

Find joy in a pot full of spicy, hearty, and creamy texture with each bite you take. Black-Eyed Peas Curry in Instant Pot delivers on those comfort food cravings effortlessly. A simple way to enjoy a nutritious and filling dish without fuss. Embrace a true family favorite on any given day.
Get the Recipe: Black-Eyed Peas Curry in Instant Pot

Cabbage Rice

Add simplicity to your meal with a recipe that turns humble cabbage into something inviting and delicious. Cabbage Rice provides a gentle flavor that pairs well with anything on your table. It's easy to make, providing a wholesome addition to any meal time.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Rice

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.

Delight yourself with fresh flavor and the soothing qualities of methi effortlessly mixed with dal. Instant Pot Methi Dal is an excellent way to bring warmth and goodness to your dinner. With minimal prep time, it stands out in its ability to satisfy cravings at short notice.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Methi Dal

Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza

Slices of Tandori Paneer Naan Pizza with tofu, red onions, tomatoes, and drizzled with green sauce on a black surface. — Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Indulge in an adventurous combination of flavors that turn an ordinary meal into something special. Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza brings together Indian and Italian influences beautifully. With creamy paneer, tangy spices, and soft naan, each bite offers a blend of deliciousness and surprise.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza

Instant Pot Rajma Masala

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

Cooking beans doesn’t have to be a long process. With Instant Pot Rajma Masala, you get a soft and flavorful curry in no time. It's a classic comfort food in Indian households. Easy to prepare and perfect with rice or flatbread. You'll love how quickly it comes together.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Rajma Masala

Cabbage Potato Curry

Simple and nutritious cooking can be pretty exciting. Cabbage Potato Curry is perfect for a quick, tasty meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with some fresh naan or steamed rice. A great way to enjoy your vegetables with minimal effort. Delicious and wholesome in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Potato Curry

Instant Pot Vegetable Biryani

Meal prep with minimal effort. Instant Pot Vegetable Biryani brings all the authentic flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. A healthy, hearty dish full of colorful veggies and fragrant spices. Perfect for lunch or dinner with a side of raita. You’ll appreciate the ease and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Vegetable Biryani

Grilled Whole Cauliflower

Whole roasted cauliflower with a golden-brown crust, garnished with fresh herbs, displayed up-close. — Grilled Whole Cauliflower. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Whole veggies can be a showstopper. Grilled Whole Cauliflower turns this humble vegetable into something magical. Seasoned just right, it makes for a unique main course or an impressive side. Pair it with your favorite dip or chutney for added flavor. Takes grilling to a new level.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Whole Cauliflower

Instant Pot Aloo Baingan

A vibrant bowl of aloo baingan garnished with fresh cilantro, served alongside lime wedges. — Instant Pot Aloo Baingan. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Quick cooking, bold flavors. Instant Pot Aloo Baingan combines potatoes and eggplant for a rich and delicious dish. Perfect for a busy weeknight when you’re craving something hearty. Best enjoyed with some warm roti or rice. Comes together quickly without compromising on taste.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Aloo Baingan

Balti Chicken

Making a restaurant-style dish at home is easier than you think. Balti Chicken packs a punch with its aromatic spices and tender chicken pieces. Ideal for a special dinner at home. Serve it with naan or rice to soak up all those flavors. Enjoy in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Balti Chicken