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    Home » MSN

    Everyone Agreed—These 29 Indian Recipes Were Way Better

    Published: Sep 4, 2025 by Mandy Applegate · This post may contain affiliate links. Leave a Comment

    Family dinners can feel like a competition of who made the best dish. With 29 Indian recipes in play, the competition gets canceled instantly. Nobody even tries to top them because it’s already game over. It’s the kind of agreement you don’t see often at the table.

    Chicken tikka in skewers.
    Chicken Tikka. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Spinach Soup Palak Soup

    Palak soup served with bread sticks.
    Spinach Soup Palak Soup. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Warm, comforting, and packed with a rich flavor, Spinach Soup Palak Soup is a true staple that everyone can agree is better than expected. The way it balances creaminess with heartiness makes it special. Combined with its vivid, natural green color, this soup stands out effortlessly at any meal.
    Get the Recipe: Spinach Soup Palak Soup

    Black Chickpea Sundal, Kadlekalu Usli

    A bowl of Kadlekalu Usli salad garnished with coconut and cilantro, served on a green tablecloth.
    Black Chickpea Sundal, Kadlekalu Usli. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Ever wanted a dish that’s both snackable and wholesome? Black Chickpea Sundal, Kadlekalu Usli checks that box by bringing together hearty textures with simple spices. It’s a popular choice among those looking for something light yet filling.
    Get the Recipe: Black Chickpea Sundal, Kadlekalu Usli

    Paneer Pakora

    Several golden brown fried breaded items are on a plate, one of which is cut open to reveal a white filling inside.
    Paneer Pakora. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Crispy on the outside, soft in the middle, that’s what makes Paneer Pakora so universally loved. The golden coating contrasts perfectly with the soft paneer inside, making it a great choice for any gathering. Everyone agrees it hits the spot when you crave something comforting and bold.
    Get the Recipe: Paneer Pakora

    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.

    Nutritious and comforting, Instant Pot Millet Khichdi is more flavorful than the traditional version many are used to. The combination of millet and simple spices creates an unexpected balance that’s hard to resist. It’s a great option for a weeknight meal or a quick, fulfilling dish.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Millet Khichdi

    Palak Paneer Stir Fry

    A bowl of indian Palak Paneer Stir Fry, featuring cubes of paneer cheese mixed with spiced, cooked spinach and herbs.
    Palak Paneer Stir Fry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    When it comes to quick, wholesome meals, Palak Paneer Stir Fry wins a lot of fans with its clean flavors and lovely texture. It brings together the rich taste of paneer and fresh spinach without overcomplicating things. The stir-fried preparation adds a nice balance that’s hard to find in many dishes.
    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.

    Earthy flavors shine in Instant Pot Beetroot Palya, offering something uniquely fresh and unexpected. This understated dish becomes a favorite for those who appreciate simple yet bold ideas. The natural sweetness of beetroot combines seamlessly with its aromatic preparation.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beetroot Palya

    Bread Omelette

    A close-up of a toasted sandwich filled with scrambled eggs and garnished with green herbs.
    Bread Omelette. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Quick, portable, and endlessly customizable, Bread Omelette makes a strong case as one of the most convenient and loved recipes. Packed between the bread layers lies the heartiness of eggs, making this dish a go-to classic. It’s a savory breakfast that works just as well for a laid-back snack.
    Get the Recipe: Bread Omelette

    Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot

    A bowl of Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot, served on a blue woven placemat with a spoon on the side.
    Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Creamy and rich, Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot blends fresh shrimp with the irresistible flavor of coconut in a way that feels both homely and restaurant-quality. The way the sauce clings so perfectly to the shrimp makes people come back for seconds.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot

    Cabbage Salad

    Cabbage salad in a white bowl with chips in the background.
    Cabbage Salad. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Light yet crunchy, Cabbage Salad might look simple, but it’s packed with flavor that’s much better than most would expect. Its clean finish makes it the perfect complement to heavier dishes. People underestimate how great cabbage can taste when it’s done right, but this salad proves them wrong.
    Get the Recipe: Cabbage Salad

    Paneer Lasagna Instant Pot

    A close-up of a slice of Paneer Lasagna Instant Pot with visible layers of pasta, cheese, and tomato-based sauce.
    Paneer Lasagna Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Combining global ideas, Paneer Lasagna Instant Pot kicks traditional lasagna up a notch with Indian-inspired additions. Every layer of paneer softens into the dish, creating a bold yet balanced flavor. It’s a fusion that most find surprisingly addictive once they try it.
    Get the Recipe: Paneer Lasagna Instant Pot

    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.

    Fluffy and naturally sweet, Eggless Banana Pancakes prove that eggs are not always needed for a great breakfast. The banana gives texture and flavor that’s unexpectedly satisfying to many first-time tasters. It’s a wonderful option for mornings when you want something quick but hearty.
    Get the Recipe: Eggless Banana Pancakes

    Basmati Rice

    A bowl of cooked Basmati Rice on a gray surface, garnished with parsley, with a wooden spoon nearby.
    Basmati Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Fragrant and full of texture, Basmati Rice is simply better at transforming any meal it’s paired with. Each grain stays separate, creating a perfect contrast to saucy main courses. Its presence alone can make even a simple meal feel more complete.
    Get the Recipe: Basmati Rice

    Instant Pot Butter Chicken

    A bowl of Instant Pot Butter Chicken garnished with cilantro, accompanied by naan bread on a white marble surface.
    Instant Pot Butter Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Creamy yet perfectly spiced, Instant Pot Butter Chicken is as good as they say, if not better. It delivers all the richness you expect without requiring hours in the kitchen. The tender chicken pieces in that iconic sauce continue to win over anyone who tries it.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Butter Chicken

    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.

    Balanced and nutritious, Dal Palak Spinach Dal showcases just how versatile this type of dish can be. Combining smooth lentils with fresh spinach adds both texture and an inviting flavor. It’s loved as a comfort dish that feels light but still leaves you satisfied.
    Get the Recipe: Dal Palak Spinach Dal

    Instant Pot Idli Recipe

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

    Instant Pot Idli Recipe solves the challenge of making perfect idlis at home. People always marvel at how consistent the results are, especially compared to traditional methods. These steamed treats hold flavors beautifully, especially when paired with chutneys or sambars.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Idli Recipe

    Ladi Pav

    Close-up of freshly baked Ladi Pav on a wire rack, some split open to reveal a soft, fluffy interior.
    Ladi Pav. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Soft and with a delicate texture, Ladi Pav has become the must-have bread option for many Indian snacks or meals. Its lightness works beautifully with heavier curries or fried dishes as a perfect counterbalance. People often talk about the experience of tearing into this bread as part of their meals.
    Get the Recipe: Ladi Pav

    Palak Paneer Instant Pot

    A bowl of Palak Paneer with chunks of tofu, served in a white ceramic dish.
    Palak Paneer Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Palak Paneer Instant Pot is more flavorful than many other versions of this dish. The tender paneer balances perfectly with the smooth and earthy spinach gravy. Using the Instant Pot simplifies the process without losing any of its signature taste.
    Get the Recipe: Palak Paneer Instant Pot

    Keema Matar

    Close-up of cooked minced meat with green olives and chopped herbs in a sauce.
    Keema Matar. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Hearty and packed with a mix of meat and peas, Keema Matar is a dish that satisfies on every level. The peas add a surprising sweetness that balances the spices in a way that stands out. It’s enjoyed as both a main dish or paired with breads for dipping.
    Get the Recipe: Keema Matar

    Gobi Manchurian

    A bowl of Gobi Manchurian garnished with sliced green onions.
    Gobi Manchurian. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Crispy cauliflower transformed in a way that’s anything but ordinary, Gobi Manchurian offers bold flavors and great textures. The cauliflower absorbs spices and sauces, creating an addictive combination that’s hard to resist. Whether dry or with gravy, it fits right into meals as an appetizer or side.
    Get the Recipe: Gobi Manchurian

    Instant Pot Methi Rice

    A bowl of cooked rice mixed with green peas, spinach, and seeds.
    Instant Pot Methi Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    With a fresh twist on traditional rice dishes, Instant Pot Methi Rice pairs earthy herbs with simple grains beautifully. It’s a go-to for those who want something quick that doesn’t compromise on taste. The Instant Pot method lets the flavors develop deeply without any fuss.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Methi Rice

    Paniyaram

    Paniyaram sprinkled with herbs, displayed on a white surface.
    Paniyaram. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Light yet filling, Paniyaram brings to the table its perfectly portioned bites that work for snacks or meals. The slight crisp outside and soft interior make it something people often turn to when they want variety. It’s both customizable and a great way to use up ingredients you already have on hand.
    Get the Recipe: Paniyaram

    Palak Sambar

    A plate of white rice garnished with a cilantro leaf, served alongside a bowl of Palak Sambar.
    Palak Sambar. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    For lovers of traditional comfort food, Palak Sambar adds a spinach twist to an already popular sambar recipe. The spinach adds texture and slight earthiness, enhancing the original while keeping it simple. It’s appreciated for being hearty but never heavy.
    Get the Recipe: Palak Sambar

    Instant Pot Avial

    A plate of traditional indian Avial, made with yogurt-based curry and fried vegetable fritters, served with rice on the side.
    Instant Pot Avial. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Uniquely combining vegetables and flavors, Instant Pot Avial is a well-loved dish that delivers something beyond the usual options. Using the Instant Pot makes it quicker, but it doesn’t skip out on any of its standout aspects. It’s a dish often appreciated for being both traditional and efficient.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Avial

    Peanut Chutney

    Top view of a glass jar containing bright green, freshly blended smoothie on a metallic tray.
    Peanut Chutney. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Popular at breakfast tables, Peanut Chutney brings a creamy twist to the standard chutney game. Its use of peanuts gives it an edge, standing out from the usual chutney options people often stick to. It’s a great accompaniment for idlis, dosas, or even as a dip for snacks.
    Get the Recipe: Peanut Chutney

    Instant Pot Millet Soup

    A close-up of a creamy soup in a blue bowl, garnished with black pepper and a sprig of cilantro, on a textured cloth background.
    Instant Pot Millet Soup. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Instant Pot Millet Soup combines the goodness of millet with straightforward preparation. It’s a step above conventional soup options thanks to its wholesome texture and flavor. People looking for something warm and satisfying often place this high on their list.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Millet Soup

    Veg Puff

    Four vegetable puffs placed on a black plate and served with tomato ketchup.
    Veg Puff. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Flaky and delicious, Veg Puff surprises with how effective a simple vegetable filling can be. The puff pastry shell creates a perfect balance of crunch and softness with every bite. It’s a go-to for snacking or party spreads, always disappearing faster than expected.
    Get the Recipe: Veg Puff

    Instant Pot Mulligatawny Soup

    A bowl of yellow curry soup garnished with herbs, served with a piece of flatbread.
    Instant Pot Mulligatawny Soup. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Instant Pot Mulligatawny Soup creates a blend of comforting and slightly spicy tones. The way this soup pulls together so much flavor is why it’s an instant hit. It often surprises people with its complexity despite being easy to make.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mulligatawny Soup

    Coconut Milk Pulao

    Close-up of Coconut Milk Pulao with cashews and spices.
    Coconut Milk Pulao. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Creamy and fragrant, Coconut Milk Pulao uses coconut milk in a way that enhances the dish without overpowering it. It pairs beautifully with side curries or can stand alone due to its distinctive finish. This rice-based dish has always been held in high regard for its ability to feel indulgent yet perfectly balanced.
    Get the Recipe: Coconut Milk Pulao

    Chicken Tikka

    Chicken tikka in skewers.
    Chicken Tikka. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Chicken Tikka shines wherever it’s served. The grilled chicken pieces carry a flavor that’s hard to beat and even harder to forget. It’s the kind of dish that works just as well at gatherings as it does for a quiet night in. People worldwide praise its simplicity blended with maximum impact.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka

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