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    Home » MSN

    I Wasn’t Trying To Impress—Just Made 29 Indian Recipes That Worked

    Published: Jul 1, 2025 by Mandy Applegate · This post may contain affiliate links. Leave a Comment

    Tried a bunch of Indian dishes without aiming for applause, and oddly enough, all 29 actually turned out solid. Nothing fancy, just food that didn’t fight back or need excuses. Somehow it worked, even with zero drama and no panic shopping. Honestly, that’s a rare win worth repeating.

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

    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.

    A chicken dish that's green, but in a good way, thanks to the fresh cilantro. Cilantro Chicken Curry has a mix of spices to give it a nice flavor. It's not too spicy, just right for everyone. I made it once, and now it's on repeat whenever I'm in the mood for something comforting.
    Get the Recipe: Cilantro Chicken Curry

    Coconut Milk Pulao

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

    This one is all about the soft rice cooked in fragrant coconut milk. Coconut Milk Pulao is kind of a go-to when you need something pleasant and a bit different from usual. It cooks up nicely, with the coconut adding a bit of sweetness. It's just as good on its own or with other food.
    Get the Recipe: Coconut Milk Pulao

    Ragi Pancakes

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

    You get these pancakes that are super simple yet quite tasty. Ragi Pancakes are made from a grain that's not as common but works great for breakfast. Not your usual pancake, a bit earthy, a bit nutty. Perfect for trying something you wouldn't normally have in the morning.
    Get the Recipe: Ragi Pancakes

    Bengali Fish Curry

    A bowl of Bengali Fish Curry with chunks of meat and vegetables, garnished with cilantro, served next to a plate of rice.
    Bengali Fish Curry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Fish and spices come together for a dish that's rich without being too fancy. Bengali Fish Curry is something I whipped up when I wanted some good fish. The flavors are balanced, nothing too overpowering. It's the kind of curry you'll think about well after the meal is over.
    Get the Recipe: Bengali Fish Curry

    Uttapam

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

    It's like a savory pancake with veggies on top, crispy on the edges, soft inside. Uttapam turned out to be my quick meal fix, kind of like my usual pancake but with a twist. It cooks up easily, and you can change up the toppings if you want. Great for those days when I'm feeling snacky but want something more.
    Get the Recipe: Uttapam

    Kadai Paneer

    Kadai Paneer dish with slices of green bell peppers and red spices, garnished with herbs, served in a steel dish.
    Kadai Paneer. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    What you get here is paneer in a spiced tomato sauce with peppers. Kadai Paneer has been my go-to when I want something cheesy yet wholesome. It's about balancing the cheese and the spices for something memorable. Works as lunch or dinner, honestly, I find it just as good both times.
    Get the Recipe: Kadai Paneer

    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.

    It's a crispy crepe loaded with spiced potato filling inside. Mysore Masala Dosa feels like a fun adventure on my plate every time I make it. The dipping sauce on the side adds that extra flavor blend. It's a meal that requires some preparation, but oh-so-worth it when you finally sit down to enjoy it.
    Get the Recipe: Mysore Masala Dosa

    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.

    Soft and fluffy is how I would describe these steamed cakes. Rava Idli fits the bill for a light yet filling snack. Grab and dip in sauce, and they’re the perfect little bites. Easy enough to whip up without too much planning, and it’s always a hit in my house.
    Get the Recipe: Rava Idli Recipe

    Instant Pot Aloo Baingan

    A vibrant bowl of aloo baingan garnished with fresh cilantro, served alongside lime wedges.
    Instant Pot Aloo Baingan. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Here’s a dish that makes use of potatoes and eggplant cooked together nicely. Instant Pot Aloo Baingan became my side choice for its simplicity and great taste. Flavors meld together and fill the house with a pleasant smell while cooking. It’s quick to make, which is always a win for me.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Aloo Baingan

    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.

    Imagine a pancake breakfast without eggs; that’s exactly what Eggless Banana Pancakes are all about. These pancakes turned out sweet and soft, just like I hoped. They soak up syrup, or whatever you like to put on top, quite nicely. Makes a great breakfast addition without too much fuss.
    Get the Recipe: Eggless Banana Pancakes

    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.

    This one’s colorful and brings together beetroot and spices in a nice mix. Instant Pot Beetroot Palya isn't just a side; it stands on its own taste-wise. It’s the kind of dish you try once and then sort of crave from time to time. A healthy mix that's my version of a power dish.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beetroot Palya

    Bhagara Baingan

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

    Eggplants never tasted or looked this good, honestly. Bhagara Baingan packs a flavor punch, focusing on spices without overdoing it. It feels special without being hard to make. Eggplants, when cooked just right, turn out really lovely in this dish.
    Get the Recipe: Bhagara Baingan

    Coconut Rice in Instant Pot

    A bowl of cooked white rice garnished with cashews, curry leaves, and dried red chilies, displayed on a rustic table setting.
    Coconut Rice in Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Rice with a coconut twist doesn’t get old. Coconut Rice became my favorite when I wanted a break from regular rice flavors. It's fragrant and fits perfectly with so many other dishes. Smooth and creamy while not being too heavy, a simple but comforting dish.
    Get the Recipe: Coconut Rice in Instant Pot

    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.

    It’s a pizza, sure, but with spicy paneer on top. Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza mixes pizza night up with the Indian flavors I love. It's kind of a fun twist on two great foods. The naan acts as a great base, holding up to the toppings like a champ.
    Get the Recipe: Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza

    Cabbage Potato Curry

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

    Many vegetables swimming in a spicy flavorful blend, that’s Cabbage Potato Curry for me. Thought it would be so simple but turned out delicious. Not the kind of dish you stress over; it comes together without much effort. Works well on its own or can pair with other things if you have them.
    Get the Recipe: Cabbage Potato Curry

    Air Fryer Eggplant

    Air Fryer Eggplant. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Eggplant gets a crispy outer layer while staying soft within, all without ample oil. Air Fryer Eggplant is my way of having a crunchy dish that's easy to make. The air fryer seems to work wonders here, which makes this dish a breeze. Ideal as a quick side for other meals I pull together.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant

    Instant Pot Upma

    A bowl of colorful upma, an indian dish made with rice and lentils, garnished with cashews and herbs.
    Instant Pot Upma. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Grain-like dish cooked to a soft consistency that's nice and savory. Instant Pot Upma serves as my quick breakfast or even an anytime dish. Easy enough to whip up once you feel that hunger peek through. A simple yet comforting dish that's perfect for a quick fix.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Upma

    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.

    This is a yogurt-based dish with a nice tangy flavor. Majjige Huli came as a surprise at how rewarding it feels once done. It holds its own when served at meals, providing a refreshing pause from other heavier things on the table. The dish is all about a balance of flavors everyone can get behind.
    Get the Recipe: Majjige Huli

    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.

    You want something that feels healthy yet tasty, that's what Instant Pot Dalia Khichdi brings. Filling and easy, without being boring, the whole idea of this dish is comfort. It lends itself well as either a meal all by itself or as an accompaniment to something bigger on the plate.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Dalia Khichdi

    Peas Paratha Matar Paratha

    Close-up of a stack of Peas Paratha, one partly unfolded to reveal a filling of spicy cauliflower mixture.
    Peas Paratha Matar Paratha. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Everybody loves bread, especially when it’s stuffed like Peas Paratha Matar Paratha. Quickly became my go-to for not just breakfast but any meal. Lightly spiced green peas bring a gentle earthy taste. Something fun and a bit hearty that you can serve easily when people stop by.
    Get the Recipe: Peas Paratha Matar Paratha

    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.

    It combines a love for naan and chicken tikka, into a single sandwich kind of deal. Chicken Tikka Naanwich is as simple as that, yet totally satisfying. When you feel like something that's indulgent yet convenient, this hits the spot. Grill or toast it a bit if you want, which brings out another element.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Naanwich

    Instant Pot Chickpea Pulao

    A close-up of a plate filled with Chickpea Pulao.
    Instant Pot Chickpea Pulao. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

    Cooks up fast and tastes so good, particularly nice for a simple dish. Instant Pot Chickpea Pulao fits great when I’m looking for a one-pot thing. It’s about bringing chickpeas together with spices into a nice comforting mix. There are days when this alone makes me feel happy with my dinner choice.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chickpea Pulao

    Chilli Eggs

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

    Need something fast and spicy? That’s Chilli Eggs for you. When you get tired of regular egg recipes, you can count on this one. Adding some heat changes up the usual egg routine in a fun way. Works great for breakfast but why stop there?
    Get the Recipe: Chilli Eggs

    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.

    The mixture of rice and fenugreek leaves turns into something special. Instant Pot Methi Rice rounds out meals with its comforting taste. In a time crunch, this rice dish never fails. Brings a sense of comfort without too much effort.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Methi Rice

    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.

    Grilled to brown perfection outside while staying tender throughout. Grilled Whole Cauliflower is surprisingly straightforward to do. You find it holds up well as a unique dish when you're in the mood for grilled stuff. Not just a side; this cauliflower stands well on its own.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Whole Cauliflower

    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.

    Making cheese is cool when you realize how simple it is to do. Homemade Paneer changed how I view what's possible in my kitchen. Comes out soft and fresh, ready to be used in pretty much any dish that calls for it. Satisfying because you made it yourself!
    Get the Recipe: Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot

    Ridge Gourd Moong Dal

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

    Has this fresh taste with a simple consistency that pairs perfectly. Ridge Gourd Moong Dal wins me over every time I make it. A light and lovely mix of vegetables and lentils. Great for the nights when you want something less heavy but still comforting.
    Get the Recipe: Ridge Gourd Moong Dal

    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.

    Buns that are soft yet hold up well for soaking oils from other dishes. Ladi Pav sits on my table frequently when I make saucy meals. It’s like a hug for whatever curry or dish is on my plate. Real easy and ready without much fuss, just the way I like it.
    Get the Recipe: Ladi Pav

    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 with tomato finds its groove in a way that’s all-around enjoyable. Tomato Rice slides easily into meal scenarios where you’d typically aim for something more complex. A little spicy, but just enough to make it interesting. Cooking it up, colors pop, and it's always right for the table.
    Get the Recipe: Tomato Rice

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