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    Home » MSN

    I Cooked These 29 Indian Recipes Because Cereal Felt Like Giving Up

    Published: Jul 16, 2025 by Mandy Applegate · This post may contain affiliate links. Leave a Comment

    There’s a line between keeping it simple and just giving up entirely, and cereal was definitely crossing it. With 29 indian meals that actually felt like meals, dinner finally had some energy again. Nobody asked if there was anything else to eat, which felt like progress.

    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.

    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.

    Spinach mixed with soft cheese cubes makes Palak Paneer Stir Fry stand out. A balance of earthy greens and creamy chunks sets it apart. It looks simple but feels hearty, and it doesn’t try too hard. Good for those times you want something healthy but not boring.
    Get the Recipe: Palak Paneer Stir Fry

    Keema Matar

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

    Ground meat cooked with peas creates Keema Matar, making it a filling option that’s both meaty and fresh. It’s comforting without being too rich, and the combination is just balanced right. Every bite gives you something hearty and something light. Perfect for sharing—or not.
    Get the Recipe: Keema Matar

    Cabbage Potato Curry

    Cabbage Potato Curry garnished with cilantro, served with roti on the side.
    Cabbage Potato Curry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Potatoes and cabbage sound basic, but together they make Cabbage Potato Curry much more than you'd expect. Soft and tender meets just a little crunch in every bite. It's a go-to everyday dish that never feels dull. You’ll wonder why you didn’t think of it sooner.
    Get the Recipe: Cabbage Potato Curry

    Masala Mashed Potatoes

    Close-up of Masala Mashed Potatoes garnished with herbs.
    Masala Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Creamy potatoes with spices turn into Masala Mashed Potatoes, which feel familiar but with a kick. It works like a side dish but isn’t overshadowed by anything more elaborate. You get something smooth, warm, and interesting in every scoop. No regular mashed potatoes here.
    Get the Recipe: Masala Mashed Potatoes

    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.

    Taking cauliflower to another level, Grilled Whole Cauliflower makes the entire veggie into something worth remembering. It’s tender on the inside and has a little crispness for texture. You end up with a center-of-the-table dish that’s more than just veggies. It says a lot without needing any extras.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Whole Cauliflower

    Punjabi Aloo Paratha

    Close-up image of aloo paratha, an indian stuffed flatbread, topped with a pat of melting butter and sprinkled with fresh herbs.
    Punjabi Aloo Paratha. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    A stuffed flatbread, Punjabi Aloo Paratha is one of those meals that feels like it’s giving you a hug. Potatoes inside the bread make it filling, warm, and ideal when you need quick comfort. It’s like having a spice pantry rolled into one bite. Great for dipping or eating alone.
    Get the Recipe: Punjabi Aloo Paratha

    Cilantro Rice

    Close-up of a bowl of Cilantro Rice garnished with parsley, highlighting the texture and color of the dish.
    Cilantro Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    You’d think rice can’t do much, but Cilantro Rice pushes that idea out the window. The fresh herb makes it light and adds a twist that keeps the texture from feeling plain. It’s simple but gets the job done with meals or by itself. Definitely not the usual plain rice.
    Get the Recipe: Cilantro Rice

    Lamb Rezala

    A bowl of traditional Lamb Rezala with spices and bay leaves, viewed from above.
    Lamb Rezala. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Soft lamb chunks mixed into a flavorful base are what make Lamb Rezala memorable. Every bite feels like something you’d take time enjoying. It’s not too complex, but it isn’t your run-of-the-mill choice for meat lovers. Works both as a special-occasion dish or something to treat yourself.
    Get the Recipe: Lamb Rezala

    Cilantro Chicken Curry

    White bowl containing Dhaniya Chicken with a creamy, green sauce and garnished with herbs.
    Cilantro Chicken Curry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Cilantro Chicken Curry makes you rethink the simple combination of chicken and greens. The herb adds something unique to the sauce compared to regular meat curries. It’s the kind of mix that feels healthy without skipping on flavor. One to keep in your back pocket for busy dinners.
    Get the Recipe: Cilantro Chicken Curry

    Mooli Paratha

    Close-up of stuffed parathas on a stovetop, filled with spiced vegetables, garnished with cilantro, cooked to a golden crisp.
    Mooli Paratha. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Stuffing bread with radish is what sets Mooli Paratha apart from its potato sibling. The slightly earthy flavor of radish brings a whole new element to the flatbread. It’s hearty, filling, and a little different in the best way. Perfect for trying something out of the ordinary.
    Get the Recipe: Mooli Paratha

    Spinach Lamb Kofta Curry

    Lamb and spinach curry served with naan.
    Spinach Lamb Kofta Curry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Lamb meatballs swimming in a vibrant base make Spinach Lamb Kofta Curry stand out from other curry dishes. The greens are more of a partner than an afterthought. It’s meaty without feeling heavy and works whether you’re serving someone or cooking for yourself. Worth indulging slowly.
    Get the Recipe: Spinach Lamb Kofta Curry

    Air Fryer Bell Peppers

    A plate of sautéed colorful bell peppers seasoned with herbs and spices.
    Air Fryer Bell Peppers. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Light, roasted, and slightly charred—Air Fryer Bell Peppers turn a basic veggie into a quick favorite. The texture makes it versatile for use as a side or snack. You’ll finish these faster than you think. Cooking them is half the fun since it’s so quick.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bell Peppers

    Tandoori Turkey

    Two Tandoori Turkey steak with herbs, lemon slices, and pickled onions on a white plate.
    Tandoori Turkey. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Turkey marinated deeply makes Tandoori Turkey more than the usual holiday meat. It’s juicy and bursts with every bite being a little more interesting than the last. Definitely not something you cook every day, but worth it for a special moment. Ideal for those wanting turkey with a twist.
    Get the Recipe: Tandoori Turkey

    Curried Green Bean Casserole

    Baked casserole with green beans and crispy fried onions on top.
    Curried Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    When beans are mixed into a spicy and creamy base, it transforms into Curried Green Bean Casserole. It steps up a traditional idea of casseroles into something worth talking about. The crunch from the beans mixes well with the smooth parts. Not an afterthought when you serve it.
    Get the Recipe: Curried Green Bean Casserole

    Bread Upma

    A bowl of Bread Upma with fried potatoes, spices, herbs, and lemon wedges.
    Bread Upma. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Simply taking a loaf of bread and giving it personality results in Bread Upma. It’s fast and turns boring slices into something full of character. Perfect for when you don’t want to cook something for long but still want it warm. Who knew leftovers could work so well?
    Get the Recipe: Bread Upma

    Air Fryer Beets

    Diced roasted beetroot pieces scattered on a white plate, garnished with green herbs.
    Air Fryer Beets. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Beets cooked just enough to be crisp but still tender make Air Fryer Beets a go-to easy option. The subtle sweetness comes out while keeping it from being too chewy. It feels fresh and works almost anywhere on your plate. Good for when you want a quick veggie win.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beets

    Chana Masala

    A bowl of Chana Masala garnished with fresh herbs and onion slices.
    Chana Masala. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Chickpeas get tossed in spices and slow-cooked into something comforting in Chana Masala. It’s filling and hearty without needing anything too fancy to make it stand out. Great for when you need something reliable during meals. Whether for pairing or eating alone, this works every time.
    Get the Recipe: Chana Masala

    Paniyaram

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

    A batter transformed into soft spheres is what makes Paniyaram so fun to eat. The tiny portions and texture make it perfect for snacking or sharing around. It’s easy to make, and each bite feels like its own self-contained packet of flavor. Works just about any time you need a warm snack.
    Get the Recipe: Paniyaram

    Kashmiri Dum Aloo

    A bowl of Kashmiri Dum Aloo, a traditional Indian dish in a creamy yellow curry, garnished with fresh cilantro.
    Kashmiri Dum Aloo. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Potatoes slow-cooked into a richer sauce make Kashmiri Dum Aloo something to sit back and enjoy. Small potatoes get that soft texture with every bite soaked through with the base. It’s not too heavy but feels rounded enough to eat alone. Definitely more than your typical potato dish.
    Get the Recipe: Kashmiri Dum Aloo

    Chilli Eggs

    A plate of Chilli Egg topped with green onions, served on a ceramic dish.
    Chilli Eggs. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Eggs with a mixture of spicy flavors make Chilli Eggs punchy without going too far. Each piece is small enough to work as both a main or side. It’s quick but still feels fully put together in every bite. Don’t let the simplicity fool you—it packs more than it seems.
    Get the Recipe: Chilli Eggs

    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.

    Mixing veggies into small fried balls makes Veg Manchurian a favorite for anyone craving something crispy and savory. The texture keeps every bite different from the usual. Dunked into a sauce, it bridges both an appetizer and a full meal. Great for experimenting with something outside of basic meals.
    Get the Recipe: Veg Manchurian

    Egg Curry

    Bowl of indian Egg Curry with visible herbs, reflecting a vibrant, spicy dish.
    Egg Curry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Boiled eggs in a sauce become something warm and complete in Egg Curry. This is not your quick breakfast; it feels more like a wholesome meal itself. It stands slightly apart because the eggs bring this extra layer of texture. Better when you need something solid but easy at hand.
    Get the Recipe: Egg Curry

    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.

    Lentils cooked with spinach turn into Palak Sambar which feels like it has a little of everything in it. It’s light, healthy, with a balance that other stews don’t quite have. A pot full of this feels low-key and comforting every time. Definitely worth trying when nothing comes to mind.
    Get the Recipe: Palak Sambar

    Egg Fried Rice

    A bowl of Egg Fried Rice with green onions, and diced vegetables, served in a speckled ceramic bowl.
    Egg Fried Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Stirring eggs into basic fried rice makes Egg Fried Rice a top choice for something fast and filling. It’s great plain or when you add it alongside other dishes. The eggs mix right into balance every bit of to protein ratio. You really don’t need much else.
    Get the Recipe: Egg Fried Rice

    Paneer Sandwich

    A Paneer Sandwich with melted cheese stretching between two halves, filled with a spicy minced meat mixture, served on a dark plate.
    Paneer Sandwich. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Grilled bread with soft cheese tucked between creates Paneer Sandwich, making it a winning combination. Whether warm or as is, it’s quick, cheesy, and plain good. Ideal for something on the go or little to no effort in the kitchen. Sandwiches just hit better with a filling like this.
    Get the Recipe: Paneer Sandwich

    Vegetable Fried Rice

    A bowl of Vegetable Fried Rice with mixed vegetables including carrots, bell peppers, and peas.
    Vegetable Fried Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    A spin on rice becomes Vegetable Fried Rice with small veggie bites balancing out every grain. It’s quick but doesn’t cut corners when it comes to flavor. Perfect on its own or paired with more mains. Who doesn’t like rice that has something extra going on?
    Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fried Rice

    Chilli Chicken

    A plate of Chilli Chicken with chunks of red peppers, drizzled in a dark sauce, garnished with green onions.
    Chilli Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Chicken mixed into something bold but not too overpowering turns into Chilli Chicken quickly. The crunch outside mixes perfectly with what’s still soft on the inside. It’s like the perfect in-between for simple and bold food. An ideal choice for some layered textures paired with strong flavors.
    Get the Recipe: Chilli Chicken

    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.

    Small bread rolls turn into Ladi Pav, something so basic that it proves why good bread works anywhere on your plate. Soft and warm, it’s a perfect partner for dipping into gravies or having lightly toasted. They carry just enough weight to complement anything without overpowering it.
    Get the Recipe: Ladi Pav

    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.

    Soft bread base with marinated cheese turns into Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza, a quick version of a classic. It’s got that mix of cheesy and smoky without leaning too heavily on either. Easy to eat and share, this is comfort food made a little extra. Fusion that totally works without much effort.
    Get the Recipe: Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza

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