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    Home » MSN

    I Made These 29 Indian Recipes And Didn’t Miss Takeout One Bit

    Published: May 19, 2025 by Mandy Applegate · This post may contain affiliate links. Leave a Comment

    The idea was just to try one or two, but after batch-cooking all 29 Indian meals, takeout didn’t stand a chance. It’s wild how fast loyalty shifts when food shows up hot and on time. Even the delivery guy probably thinks something happened. Spoiler alert: something did—and it came from the stove.

    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.

    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.

    Combining lentils with spinach creates a hearty option that’s also nutritious. Dal Palak Spinach Dal has a smooth texture and just the right balance of subtle flavors. It’s versatile enough to pair well with rice or bread. Stepping away from takeout, this feels homemade and comforting.
    Get the Recipe: Dal Palak Spinach Dal

    Instant Pot Vegetable Korma

    A bowl of colorful mixed vegetable curry garnished with fresh cilantro, served with flatbread on the side.
    Instant Pot Vegetable Korma. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Packed with vegetables, Instant Pot Vegetable Korma achieves a creamy consistency without being too heavy. It’s bold without being overpowering, bringing everything together in a single dish. Perfect to share but also fulfilling on its own. Skipping takeout for this feels like a win.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Vegetable Korma

    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.

    Light and fluffy grains make Basmati Rice a perfect base for many dishes. It’s simple but makes other flavors shine when paired. The aroma feels familiar but improved in a homemade way. Adding this alongside other dishes creates a wholesome meal.
    Get the Recipe: Basmati Rice

    Masala Mac and Cheese

    A bowl of creamy Masala Mac and Cheese with chopped herbs, served in a blue dish.
    Masala Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Pasta gets an Indian twist in Masala Mac and Cheese, pairing comfort with bold spices. It’s a fun way to rethink a classic idea while keeping it approachable. The combination feels unique and fulfilling at the same time. You won’t look back on regular mac and cheese after this.
    Get the Recipe: Masala Mac and Cheese

    Instant Pot Vegetable Pulao

    A close-up of a bowl of Vegetable Pulao containing rice mixed with chunks of carrots and cauliflower.
    Instant Pot Vegetable Pulao. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Mildly spiced rice combined with vegetables makes Instant Pot Vegetable Pulao a one-pot wonder. It’s filling and brings harmony between texture and taste. This is perfect to serve as a main or side dish. You’ll miss takeout far less with this at home.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Vegetable Pulao

    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.

    Crispy dosas stuffed with spicy potato filling make Mysore Masala Dosa hard to resist. The mix of textures and flavors keeps it exciting with every bite. It’s great for breakfast or as a snack anytime. Homemade takes away the need for ordering out.
    Get the Recipe: Mysore Masala Dosa

    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.

    A protein-packed dish, Horse Gram Sambar/Hurali Saaru blends lentils and spices beautifully. Perfect on its own or with rice, it fills you up without weighing you down. The flavors balance each other out so well. You’d be surprised how easy this is to make yourself.
    Get the Recipe: Horse Gram Sambar/Hurali Saaru

    Uttapam

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

    Thicker than dosa and topped with veggies, Uttapam feels like a mini pizza inspired by Indian flavors. Every bite combines softness with a hint of crunch. It’s versatile enough to enjoy anytime during the day. Skipping restaurant versions never felt so worth it.
    Get the Recipe: Uttapam

    Instant Pot Jeera Rice

    A bowl of cooked Jeera Rice, garnished, presented on a textured grey background.
    Instant Pot Jeera Rice. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Fragrant and simple, Instant Pot Jeera Rice brings out the essence of cumin without overwhelming the palate. It pairs well with heavier dishes or can be eaten solo when you want something light. The ease of cooking makes it a go-to choice. Homemade rice beats takeout any day.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Jeera Rice

    Chicken Masala

    A plate of Chicken Masala with two pieces of naan and basmati rice garnished with herbs, served with sliced onions on the side.
    Chicken Masala. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Spicy and flavorful, Chicken Masala delivers everything you love in Indian food without relying on takeout. Its thick texture makes it perfect to mop up with breads or rice. It’s rich without being too complex to make at home. Bringing this to your table feels fulfilling.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Masala

    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.

    Stir-fried fresh beans get star treatment in Beans Palya Beans Poriyal, combining simplicity with light spices. It works well with rice or just as a side dish. Each bite feels fresh and wholesome without being boring. This brings home a restaurant vibe, easily.
    Get the Recipe: Beans Palya Beans Poriyal

    Naan Recipe

    naan ingredients with labels.
    Naan Recipe. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Soft and slightly chewy flatbread like Naan Recipe completes almost any Indian meal. It’s hard to beat a fresh homemade version straight from the skillet or oven. This pairs beautifully with creamy and spicy dishes alike. Making it yourself feels rewarding and worth skipping delivery.
    Get the Recipe: Naan Recipe

    Shahi Paneer Instant Pot

    A bowl of Shahi Paneer Instant Pot, served in a blue-rimmed bowl.
    Shahi Paneer Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Creamy, rich, and full of flavor, Shahi Paneer Instant Pot feels indulgent but can be managed at home easily. Paneer gives it the texture that sets it apart. It’s wonderful alongside rice or bread for a balanced meal. After making this, ordering out seems less tempting.
    Get the Recipe: Shahi Paneer Instant Pot

    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 bread rolls like Ladi Pav are perfect for soaking up gravies or paired with street-style snacks. They carry a subtle sweetness that makes them versatile. Freshly made versions feel far superior to prepackaged ones. Trying this out at home really improves your meals.
    Get the Recipe: Ladi Pav

    Instant Pot Masala Pasta

    Two bowls of Masala Pasta, served on a dark blue textured surface.
    Instant Pot Masala Pasta. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Mixing Indian flavors with pasta, Instant Pot Masala Pasta makes an interesting fusion. It’s comforting yet distinctly spiced, working for gatherings or solo meals. The combination is fun without being overly complicated. You’ll wonder why you ordered takeout pasta before.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Masala Pasta

    Ragi Upma

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

    Made from finger millet flour, Ragi Upma is filling and great as a breakfast option. It’s earthy and nutritious, offering something different from everyday oats or grains. Homemade versions add freshness that stands out. You’ll feel good skipping takeout for this quick dish.
    Get the Recipe: Ragi Upma

    Sabudana Khichdi

    A bowl of sabudana garnished with herbs and a lemon slice.
    Sabudana Khichdi. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Tapioca pearls in Sabudana Khichdi make it light yet filling, perfect for a snack when hunger strikes. It’s easy to pull together and hits the spot every time. Each bite feels familiar with a twist you’d appreciate more making it yourself. Takeout has nothing on this simplicity.
    Get the Recipe: Sabudana Khichdi

    Pan-Fried Plantains

    A bowl of Pan-Fried Plantains with fresh herbs.
    Pan-Fried Plantains. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Cooking Pan-Fried Plantains brings out flavors and textures you didn’t expect from this tropical staple. Slightly crispy with a soft interior makes it a snack or side dish that stands out. Making it fresh adds so much compared to ordering out. It’s a simple way to enjoy something unique.
    Get the Recipe: Pan-Fried Plantains

    Chicken Korma

    A bowl of Chicken Korma garnished with herbs and sliced almonds, served with a spoon on the side.
    Chicken Korma. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Creamy and mildly spiced, Chicken Korma feels both hearty and homely. It’s a dish that’s fulfilling with naan, rice, or even solo. The homemade option makes it fresher with customizable intensity. It’s worth skipping delivery when you realize how easy this can be to pull off.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Korma

    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.

    Smoky roasted eggplant becomes the center of attention in Baingan Bharta, creating layers of bold flavor. It’s soft but packs a punch that feels anything but ordinary. Taking this on at home brings fresh ingredients to the forefront. No restaurant version compares to this handmade freshness.
    Get the Recipe: Baingan Bharta

    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.

    Light and nutritious, Millet Dosa Recipe offers something a little different than the usual dosa. Its texture feels equally fulfilling without being heavy. Homemade versions let you tweak to your liking—making it feel tailored each time. It’s the kind of dish that’s worth the extra effort.
    Get the Recipe: Millet Dosa Recipe

    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.

    Chickpeas cooked in a spiced gravy make South Indian Chana Masala both hearty and comforting. It pairs beautifully with rice, bread, or on its own as a complete meal. Making this using fresh techniques brings out deeper flavors. You’ll find homemade really beats takeout every time.
    Get the Recipe: South Indian Chana Masala

    Red Rice

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

    With a nutty flavor, Red Rice gives a different texture compared to regular white rice. It works well as a base or on its own when you need something wholesome. Preparing this feels healthier and more fulfilling than grabbing takeout. A great addition to your meal rotation.
    Get the Recipe: Red Rice

    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 and green peas combine in Keema Matar for a simple yet hearty dish. The texture is mildly soft, making it great over rice or with bread. It’s the kind of recipe that’s perfect for batch cooking or sharing. Once you master it, takeout won’t seem necessary anymore.
    Get the Recipe: Keema Matar

    Instant Pot Chicken Vindaloo

    Top view of a bowl of Chicken Vindaloo garnished with herbs, accompanied by a slice of bread on the side.
    Instant Pot Chicken Vindaloo. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Spicy and tangy, Instant Pot Chicken Vindaloo leaves you wanting more without the fuss of ordering out. The thickness works beautifully to complement breads or lighter sides. Taking this on at home creates a version packed with fresh boldness. Homemade never felt so rewarding.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Vindaloo

    Bombay Potatoes

    A bowl of Bombay Potatoes garnished with herbs, featuring golden potatoes and onions in a rich, spiced sauce.
    Bombay Potatoes. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Cooking up Bombay Potatoes brings simple ingredients together in perfect flavor harmony. The result works well alongside bigger dishes or as a snack if you want something quick. These potatoes deliver on balanced flavor and texture every time. Making them feels easy and fresh without hassle.
    Get the Recipe: Bombay Potatoes

    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.

    Sweet and buttery flavors make Paneer Butter Masala Paneer Makhani a favorite that doesn’t stay in the bowl long. The creaminess pairs beautifully with fresh naan or steamed rice. Trying this at home gives you control over how rich or mild you prefer. Saves time you’d spend ordering online.
    Get the Recipe: Paneer Butter Masala Paneer Makhani

    Kolhapuri Lamb

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

    Boldly spiced, Kolhapuri Lamb makes for an indulgent option that brings Indian cuisine straight to your home. The richness complements rice or breads effortlessly, turning ordinary meals into special ones. Cooking it yourself feels rewarding. You’ll appreciate skipping takeout for this dish.
    Get the Recipe: Kolhapuri Lamb

    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.

    Smooth textures and balanced spices turn Instant Pot Butter Chicken into a comfort food hit. Perfect with rice or naan, it feels familiar but fresher made at home. The simplicity makes it an easier option for busy days. Ordering it out won’t feel as tempting anymore.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Butter Chicken

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