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    Home » MSN

    I Felt Too Tired To Cook—But These 29 Indian Recipes Came Through

    Published: May 22, 2025 by Mandy Applegate · This post may contain affiliate links. Leave a Comment

    Everyone has those nights when even ordering food feels like work. These 29 Indian meals didn’t wait to be invited—they just handled it. No pep talk, no complicated instructions, just one win after another. It’s the kind of lineup that makes giving up feel like too much effort.

    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.

    Horse Gram Sambar/Hurali Saaru

    Hurali Saaru in a pot garnished with cilantro, featuring a rich, spiced lentil stew.
    Horse Gram Sambar/Hurali Saaru. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    After a tiring day, you might not want to spend much time in the kitchen, but Horse Gram Sambar/Hurali Saaru always comes through when you need comfort food. It brings a cozy feeling to any table without making things complicated. You get a warm meal that feels right even on busy nights.
    Get the Recipe: Horse Gram Sambar/Hurali Saaru

    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.

    There are nights when something simple is all you want, and Ladi Pav makes it feel like you’ve got things under control. These soft rolls pair well with so many mains or just on their own. It’s nice to have an option that goes with whatever is already at home. You’ll want to keep extra on hand for next time.
    Get the Recipe: Ladi Pav

    Black-Eyed Peas Curry in Instant Pot

    A bowl of Black-Eyed Peas Curry in Instant Pot served with white rice and cashews on a blue plate.
    Black-Eyed Peas Curry in Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Those evenings when you can’t think of what to make, Black-Eyed Peas Curry in Instant Pot gives you a good answer. It’s filling, flavorful, and doesn’t make you spend hours in the kitchen. There’s a comfort to knowing something so easy can feel like a full meal. You’ll want to save this for your next tired day.
    Get the Recipe: Black-Eyed Peas Curry in Instant Pot

    South Indian Chana Masala

    A top view of a bowl of South Indian Chana Masala with cilantro and green chilies.
    South Indian Chana Masala. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Not every meal has to be a big event, and South Indian Chana Masala proves it. Quick to prepare and always filling, it’s great when you’re too tired for a big effort. The mix of flavors wakes up any evening. Sometimes, the simplest meals bring the most comfort.
    Get the Recipe: South Indian Chana Masala

    Methi Chicken Instant Pot

    A red skillet containing Methi Chicken, displayed on a blue textured surface with a striped cloth nearby.
    Methi Chicken Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Long days call for shortcuts, and Methi Chicken Instant Pot answers that need in no time. It’s hearty enough to please everyone but doesn’t wear you out. You get a nice balance without extra work. Tired evenings are a lot easier with something like this.
    Get the Recipe: Methi Chicken Instant Pot

    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.

    It’s nice to have go-to meals for those days when you want food without the effort, and Bengali Tadka Green Moong Dal fits perfectly. The dish is simple but always delivers comfort. A bowl of this can fix even the longest day. You’ll end up making it more often than you think.
    Get the Recipe: Bengali Tadka Green Moong Dal

    Tomato Rice

    A close-up of a dish of Tomato Rice with fresh cilantro leaves in a blue bowl.
    Tomato Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Sometimes you just need a bowl of something easy, and Tomato Rice never disappoints. It works well on its own or next to other quick dishes. There’s a nice brightness in every bite, making dinner feel less dull. This one’s always good to have in your back pocket.
    Get the Recipe: Tomato Rice

    Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot

    Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot filled with freshly cut cubes of white paneer cheese.
    Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Some nights call for something fresh, and Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot lets you pull it off without much fuss. The texture stands out and makes any meal feel a bit more complete. Kids and adults both enjoy how simple it is. Dinner gets easier with a recipe like this.
    Get the Recipe: Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot

    Balti Chicken

    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.

    When your energy is running low, Balti Chicken keeps things simple and filling. There’s no stress about what to make when you know this will turn out well. The mix of spices gives dinner a bit of a lift. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you did enough.
    Get the Recipe: Balti Chicken

    Instant Pot Cabbage Dal

    A bowl of Instant Pot Cabbage Dal garnished with cilantro on a textured surface.
    Instant Pot Cabbage Dal. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Busy days need quick solutions, and Instant Pot Cabbage Dal delivers without extra hassle. The texture and warmth are just right for tired nights. It’s easy to serve with whatever you already have. A recipe like this always makes life a bit smoother.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Cabbage Dal

    Hakka Noodles

    A bowl of Hakka Noodles with vegetables, a fork lifting some noodles, placed on a blue dish with a striped napkin on the side.
    Hakka Noodles. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    If you want something fun but don’t have the energy for takeout, Hakka Noodles are a solid choice. They come together fast and everyone wants more. You get a quick meal that doesn’t feel rushed. Keeping things easy has never tasted better.
    Get the Recipe: Hakka Noodles

    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.

    There’s something reliable about Instant Pot Methi Dal after a busy day. The flavor stands out without needing much from you. It pairs easily with bread or rice. Meals like this show you don’t need a lot to feel content at dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Methi Dal

    Millet Dosa Recipe

    Two dosas served with coconut chutney and sambar in small bowls, placed on a rustic fabric surface.
    Millet Dosa Recipe. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    On nights when you crave something different but don’t want to spend too much time, Millet Dosa Recipe steps in. The crispness and light feel make it easy to enjoy, even if you’re tired. It’s a great change from the usual without being a chore. Keeping this recipe around pays off when you’re low on energy.
    Get the Recipe: Millet Dosa Recipe

    Instant Pot Rajma Masala

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

    When you’re too tired to think about dinner, Instant Pot Rajma Masala is a real lifesaver. It’s one of those meals that feels hearty with little effort. The warm, rich taste makes any long day better. You’ll wonder why you ever stressed about cooking after trying it.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Rajma Masala

    Chickpea Spinach Curry

    A bowl of Indian Palak chole (Chickpea Spinach Curry) seasoned with spices and herbs.
    Chickpea Spinach Curry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    There are nights when you want something quick but still filling, and Chickpea Spinach Curry really pulls through. It’s easy to enjoy with any side you have ready. Even the kids will ask for seconds. Somehow, this curry makes a simple night feel like you did more than you did.
    Get the Recipe: Chickpea Spinach Curry

    Paneer Peas Pulao Instant Pot

    A dish of Paneer Peas Pulao in a rectangular serving tray, accompanied by a bowl of boondi raita.
    Paneer Peas Pulao Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    It can be tough to make something when energy is low, but Paneer Peas Pulao Instant Pot changes the game. You get a full meal in one go, and everyone leaves the table happy. Leftovers are just as good the next day. Meals like this make tired evenings easier to handle.
    Get the Recipe: Paneer Peas Pulao Instant Pot

    Ragi Idli

    A bowl of pumpkin soup served with Ragi Idli.
    Ragi Idli. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    If you’re too exhausted for a big meal, Ragi Idli is a gentle fix that doesn’t take much out of you. Light, soft, and ready in minutes, it makes snacking simple. Kids and adults like how easy it is to eat. Those nights when you want zero fuss, this is the answer.
    Get the Recipe: Ragi Idli

    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.

    Feeling drained but need something warm? Dal Palak Spinach Dal comes together so easily you barely notice you’re cooking. It works well with anything on the side. After one bowl, you’ll feel like you did enough without much effort.
    Get the Recipe: Dal Palak Spinach Dal

    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.

    Some evenings call for food that feels comforting without a lot of steps, so Kitchari Instant Pot always makes sense. It’s all-in-one and leaves you full without taking up much time. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to serve. Lazy nights feel less stressful with this on hand.
    Get the Recipe: Kitchari Instant Pot

    Ragi Upma

    A bowl of ragi ugma filling with vegetables and beans.
    Ragi Upma. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    There are moments when even a basic meal feels like a chore, but Ragi Upma brings relief. It’s ready fast and goes well at any time of day. No need for extra planning or worry. With this, you get to rest while still having something good to eat.
    Get the Recipe: Ragi Upma

    Bhindi Kadhi

    A bowl of Bhindi Kadhi with okra pieces in a creamy yellow sauce.
    Bhindi Kadhi. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    On days when cooking feels impossible, Bhindi Kadhi can be a real support. The mix of flavors keeps things interesting without much work. It’s great with any bread or rice you have. After trying it, tired evenings won’t bother you as much.
    Get the Recipe: Bhindi Kadhi

    Papaya Potato Curry

    A bowl of Papaya Potato Curry, served on a blue woven mat.
    Papaya Potato Curry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    It’s not easy to find a meal that works when you’re low on energy, but Papaya Potato Curry fits right in. It’s hearty enough to fill you up and quick enough to keep you from giving up on dinner. You’ll be surprised how well it hits the spot. This curry turns tough days around.
    Get the Recipe: Papaya Potato Curry

    Bottle Gourd Dal Instant Pot

    A bowl of Bottle Gourd Dal with vegetables, presented in a blue bowl.
    Bottle Gourd Dal Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    A long day can make dinner feel like a lot, but Bottle Gourd Dal Instant Pot comes together without any trouble. It’s smooth, easy to eat, and makes you feel like you accomplished something with very little effort. Family members notice the comfort it brings. Simple wins matter on busy nights.
    Get the Recipe: Bottle Gourd Dal Instant Pot

    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.

    Some nights you just want something you can trust to go with anything, and Basmati Rice is always there for you. It cooks fast and fits with any quick meal. Even when you’re tired, this side never disappoints. Having it around means one less thing to worry about.
    Get the Recipe: Basmati Rice

    Bhagara Baingan

    A bowl of Bhagara Baingan garnished with cilantro, served with flatbread on the side.
    Bhagara Baingan. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Days when you can barely move but still need to eat are easier with Bhagara Baingan. Its unique flavor always gets noticed at the table. Quick prep means less waiting and more relaxing. With this, you can rest easy and still enjoy dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Bhagara Baingan

    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.

    Even if you have no energy left, Instant Pot Beetroot Palya helps make dinner less of a task. The color and texture keep things interesting without a lot of fuss. It pairs well with many mains. Having this recipe makes busy nights less stressful.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beetroot Palya

    Air Fryer Eggplant

    Air Fryer Eggplant. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    There’s always that moment when you want something simple, and Air Fryer Eggplant delivers. It’s crisp, quick, and feels a bit different from regular snacks. You’ll find yourself reaching for more. Cooking doesn’t have to be a big deal on tired days.
    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.

    When you can’t bring yourself to cook much, Instant Pot Dalia Khichdi is a solid pick. It’s filling, warm, and comes together quickly. No one asks for more after a bowl of this. It’s a dinner that lets you relax and take it easy.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Dalia 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.

    After a long day, Palak Paneer Stir Fry is one way to make dinner quick but still enjoyable. It’s fast to serve and always gets finished. You get a balanced meal without extra work. Next time you’re tired, this stir fry will save the night.
    Get the Recipe: Palak Paneer Stir Fry

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