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    Home » MSN

    I Made One Of These 29 Indian Recipes And Finally Sat Down To Enjoy It

    Published: Jun 25, 2025 by Mandy Applegate · This post may contain affiliate links. Leave a Comment

    Most nights, dinner feels like a race between cooking and collapsing, but this time, something actually worked. One of 29 Indian recipes delivered just enough comfort and ease to make sitting down feel earned. It had flavor, warmth, and zero drama, which was a rare combo on a weekday.

    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.

    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.

    Combining paneer with spinach makes for a dish that's well-balanced and hearty. Palak Paneer Stir Fry is quick to put together and works as a versatile meal or side dish. The creaminess of the paneer contrasts nicely with the leafy greens. It's a filling choice that fits different kinds of meals easily.
    Get the Recipe: Palak Paneer Stir Fry

    Ragi Pancakes

    Stack of Ragi pancakes with syrup drizzled on top, accompanied by strawberries on the side.
    Ragi Pancakes. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Pancakes get a healthy twist with a grain that’s not too heavy. Ragi Pancakes are soft yet hold their shape well and offer something a little different for breakfast. Their hearty base makes them pair well with simple toppings. It’s an easy breakfast option that doesn’t feel too rich or heavy.
    Get the Recipe: Ragi Pancakes

    Air Fryer Eggplant

    Air Fryer Eggplant. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Using an air fryer gives eggplant a texture that’s crisp on the outside but soft inside. Air Fryer Eggplant feels lighter compared to other versions and skips any overwhelming greasiness. It’s a straightforward dish that you can enjoy as a snack or add to bigger plates.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant

    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.

    Rice gets an upgrade with tomatoes coming through in flavor without feeling overwhelming. Tomato Rice works as a one-dish meal and doesn’t feel heavy while still filling you up. It has a balance that lets it fit in as a quick lunch or dinner side. It’s simple but doesn't come off as plain.
    Get the Recipe: Tomato Rice

    Bhagara Baingan

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

    Eggplant takes center stage with thick flavors that coat every bite in an interesting way. Bhagara Baingan isn’t overly spicy but carries a rich texture that feels unique. It pairs well with flatbreads or rice and stands out with its bold preparation style.
    Get the Recipe: Bhagara Baingan

    Coconut Milk Pulao

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

    Rice cooked with coconut milk gets an earthy feel that’s light but still has depth. Coconut Milk Pulao uses its simple ingredients to keep the flavors mellow but satisfying. It’s easy to pair with heavier or lighter sides without clashing. This dish is perfect for a meal that doesn’t feel too complicated.
    Get the Recipe: Coconut Milk Pulao

    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.

    Lentils are cooked to be hearty and infused with layers of flavor. Bengali Tadka Green Moong Dal offers a comforting option, perfect for pairing with rice or bread. It’s both light and filling without going overboard. It’s one of those dishes that feels homely despite its complex seasoning.
    Get the Recipe: Bengali Tadka Green Moong 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.

    Mixing paneer with naan as the base makes a different kind of pizza worth trying. Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza blends Indian elements with a simple Western concept for a fun twist. The naan stays chewy while supporting the spiced paneer topping.
    Get the Recipe: Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza

    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.

    Cauliflower gets a charred outer layer that contrasts well with its tender inside. Grilled Whole Cauliflower focuses on texture more than overpowering spices and works well for sharing. It’s easy to cut apart and pairs well with dips or simple sides.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Whole Cauliflower

    Ridge Gourd Moong Dal

    A bowl of Ridge Gourd Moong Dal with chopped herbs.
    Ridge Gourd Moong Dal. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Combining lentils with ridge gourd brings a mild, balanced feel with soft textures. Ridge Gourd Moong Dal creates a calming meal that works well for weekday dinners. It’s not overly spiced, which lets the ingredients shine better. A good pick for something light yet filling at the same time.
    Get the Recipe: Ridge Gourd Moong Dal

    Chettinad Chicken

    A bowl of Chettinad Chicken Curry garnished with fresh cilantro, displaying chunks of chicken and spices in a rich, creamy sauce.
    Chettinad Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Chicken prepared in a bold style where the spices come out strong but not overdone. Chettinad Chicken is rich and pairs effortlessly with plain sides like rice or bread. The texture is tender, letting the flavors seep in fully with every bite. It’s one of those dishes that gets you excited to try it again.
    Get the Recipe: Chettinad Chicken

    Ragi Rotti

    A Ragi Rotti served with a side of mashed yellow vegetables on an orange plate.
    Ragi Rotti. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Flatbreads made using ragi carry a mild earthy tone that make them great for pairing with dips or sides. Ragi Rotti cooks to be firm without being too tough, which is satisfying for eating with different fillings. It’s a quick alternative to regular flatbreads, especially for breakfast or light meals.
    Get the Recipe: Ragi Rotti

    Kolhapuri Lamb/Lamb Kolhapur

    Lamb Kolhapur in a bowl, topped with dried red chilies and fried onions.
    Kolhapuri Lamb/Lamb Kolhapur. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Lamb cooked in Kolhapuri style packs a punch that isn’t overly spicy but still memorable. Kolhapuri Lamb brings strong flavors that make it distinct and special as a main dish. The texture is tender, making it easy to enjoy with softer sides. It’s ideal for meals where you want something bold on the plate.
    Get the Recipe: Kolhapuri Lamb/Lamb Kolhapur

    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.

    Sambar made using horse gram gives a twist, often overlooked but worth trying. Hurali Saaru pairs beautifully with rice and manages to feel both hearty and light. It’s the kind of soup-like dish that works for people who want depth without too much heaviness.
    Get the Recipe: Horse Gram Sambar/Hurali Saaru

    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.

    Dosas made with millet feel lighter compared to their traditional counterparts. Millet Dosa is crisp but pairs well with soft chutneys to balance things out. They make a great breakfast that’s easy on the stomach yet filling enough for the day. It’s a refreshing change if you want something different but familiar.
    Get the Recipe: Millet Dosa Recipe

    Kala Chana Curry

    A bowl of Kala Chana Curry garnished with fresh cilantro, served on a dark textured surface.
    Kala Chana Curry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Black chickpeas bring a nutty flavor, and they’re served in such a hearty style here. Kala Chana Curry isn’t overly spicy but carries enough depth to feel unique. It’s the kind of dish that works just as well for lunch or dinner meals. A good match for rice or breads to absorb the flavorful base.
    Get the Recipe: Kala Chana Curry

    Uttapam

    Two vegetable-topped uttapam with a side of sauce.
    Uttapam. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Thicker and softer than regular dosas, these come loaded with small toppings. Uttapam works for breakfast, snacks, or even main meals, making them versatile. They stay fluffier than other options while still holding their shape. An easy go-to for eating on days when you want a quick hot plate.
    Get the Recipe: Uttapam

    Mysore Masala Dosa

    A folded, Mysore Masala Dosa on a dark plate served with a side of green chutney.
    Mysore Masala Dosa. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Dosa gets wrapped around fillings that are spiced but not overwhelming. Mysore Masala Dosa works with its crispy shell and soft inside for an enjoyable contrast. It’s great for pairing with sauces or enjoying on its own without much else. It’s perfect when you want something simple but worth repeating.
    Get the Recipe: Mysore Masala Dosa

    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.

    Paneer coated in a smooth blend keeps flavors mild yet balanced for a main dish. Paneer Butter Masala pairs effortlessly with breads or plain rice for simple meals. The creamy base allows the paneer to stay the star without anything overpowering. It’s the kind of meal that feels classic but still fun to eat.
    Get the Recipe: Paneer Butter Masala Paneer Makhani

    Red Rice

    A bowl of Red Rice displayed close-up.
    Red Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Rice gets a deep tone, staying distinct and packed with texture. Red Rice is simple in its appeal but offers something different compared to whites or browns. It holds its shape better and works well in mixed dishes or plain sides. A solid choice for changing up your usual base grains.
    Get the Recipe: Red Rice

    Cabbage Palya

    A bowl of indian Cabbage Palya garnished with herbs.
    Cabbage Palya. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Cabbage becomes a quick vegetable dish that’s mild and versatile for sides. Cabbage Palya keeps things light without losing its texture or flavor in the process. It pairs easily with anything from breads to full meals. A way to enjoy cabbage that lets it shine without extra frills.
    Get the Recipe: Cabbage Palya

    Baingan Bharta

    A bowl of baingan bharta, an indian dish made of mashed eggplant mixed with spices, tomatoes, and garnished with cilantro.
    Baingan Bharta. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Eggplant is roasted to become smooth while retaining some smokiness. Baingan Bharta is mashed into a dish that works with bread or rice quickly. Its simple presentation hides the deeper flavors it carries. Perfect for meals where simplicity doesn’t mean boring.
    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.

    Idlis made with semolina feel firmer compared to the usual rice versions. Rava Idli isn’t heavy but still fills you up enough to feel like a solid meal. They come softer than expected while holding their shape with sauces. A good alternative meal that mixes up your breakfast options.
    Get the Recipe: Rava Idli Recipe

    Beans Palya Beans Poriyal

    A bowl of chopped Beans Palya mixed with spices, served on a dining table.
    Beans Palya Beans Poriyal. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Green beans are cooked until their softness keeps balance without becoming mushy. Beans Palya makes for a flexible side dish that fits whenever and wherever without much planning. Lightly cooked but still flavorful enough to enjoy alone or paired.
    Get the Recipe: Beans Palya Beans Poriyal

    Mango Dal

    A plate of white rice paired with yellow dal garnished with chili peppers and curry leaves.
    Mango Dal. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Dal mixed with mango brings sweet notes that don’t clash with other elements. Mango Dal works for adding variety to usual dining menus and stays refreshing. It combines different tastes without letting the sweetness take over.
    Get the Recipe: Mango Dal

    Chicken Tikka Naanwich

    A platter of freshly made, golden-brown Naan served with a side of dipping sauce.
    Chicken Tikka Naanwich. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Chicken tikka wrapped up with naan feels easy to handle and enjoy in a single bite. Chicken Tikka Naanwich makes fast meals pleasant without weighing you down. It’s filling enough to work solo but pairs well with simple sides. A casual way to enjoy chicken tikka that doesn’t require plating.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Naanwich

    Kosambari

    A bowl of sambar, a traditional south indian lentil soup with mixed vegetables and herbs, served in a stainless steel bowl.
    Kosambari. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Fresh veggies come together to create something quick but fun for snacking or sides. Kosambari doesn’t rely on heavy spices to stand out but stays refreshing. Easy to pull together when you just want something light with crunch. Works in meals that need something extra but not overwhelming.
    Get the Recipe: Kosambari

    Majjige Huli

    A bowl of creamy yellow soup garnished with herbs and oil on top of a cloth.
    Majjige Huli. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Buttermilk makes this dish stand apart with its tangy base and smooth finish. Majjige Huli is great with rice or even sipped alone for its lightness. It’s mild in spice but not bland, giving you something different easily. A good choice for meals that focus on balance without adding too much weight.
    Get the Recipe: Majjige Huli

    Chilli Chicken

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

    Chicken packs heat but stays tender, making every bite stronger in flavor. Chilli Chicken works well for both quick meals or paired dishes like noodles. The spice doesn’t overpower, so it’s enjoyable even casually. Perfect for anyone who enjoys punchy flavors without stretching complexity.
    Get the Recipe: Chilli Chicken

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