No-Fail Indian Recipes: 10 Simple Dishes for Beginners

While Indian cuisine is known for its intricate recipes, it also offers a wide array of quick and simple meals that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Some of the most cherished Indian dishes are the ones that embrace simplicity. Discover these uncomplicated Indian recipes for beginners, ideal for home cooks and those seeking quick and satisfying meals.

Paneer sabzi served with roti. — Paneer Sabji. Image Credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Bombay Potatoes

Bomay potatoes in a blue bowl. — Bombay Potatoes. Image Credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Looking for a new way to enjoy potatoes? Try this recipe for Bombay Potatoes, a savory and spicy dish that's sure to satisfy. Made with a mix of fragrant spices and tender potatoes, it's a flavorful addition to any meal.

Get the recipe: Bombay Potatoes.

Paneer Sabji

Savor the rich flavors of our homemade Paneer Sabzi. This vegetarian delight features soft paneer cubes in a flavorful gravy. Perfect for a delightful meal at any time.

Get the recipe: Paneer Sabji.

Shrimp Coconut Curry / Bhapa Chingri

Shrimp coconut curry in a blue bowl. — Shrimp Coconut Curry. Image Credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

This shrimp coconut curry is one of the easiest dishes you will make, and it requires no active cooking! Simply grind the spices with coconut, mix them with the shrimp, and let the Instant Pot do its magic. It's the perfect dish for a satisfying lunch or dinner and pairs well with steamed rice.

Get the recipe: Shrimp Coconut Curry.

Butter Chicken

Indulge in the rich flavors of Instant Pot Butter Chicken, a quick and easy Indian favorite that will leave you craving more. Creamy, aromatic, and packed with tender chicken, it's a dish that will impress everyone at your table.

Get the recipe: Instant Pot Butter Chicken.

Crispy Onion Pakora

Onion pakora served with dips and chai. — Onion Pakora. Image Credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

When those crispy onion pakoras are sizzling hot, you know it's time for a tasty treat! And what's better? They are made in an air fryer! No compromise on taste, just a little extra crisp. The perfect companion for your evening tea or as a delightful snack any time.

Get the recipe: Air Fryer Onion Pakora.

Home-Style Chicken Curry

Chicken curry served with basmati rice and salad. — Chicken Curry. Image Credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Dive into the flavors of home-style chicken curry made effortlessly in the Instant Pot. Succulent chicken cooked in aromatic spices and a flavorful curry sauce. The perfect dish to bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table.

Get the recipe: Chicken Curry.

Palak Paneer

Instant Pot Saag Paneer made with frozen spinach - can't get any easier! Creamy spinach, perfectly spiced, and tender paneer cheese come together in a breeze using your Instant Pot.

Get the recipe: Palak Paneer.

Jeera Rice / Cumin-Flavored Rice

Jeera rice in a grey bowl. — Jeera Rice. Image Credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Whip up a batch of fragrant and fluffy Jeera Rice (cumin-flavored rice) in no time with your Instant Pot! Infused with the warmth of cumin, this versatile side dish is perfect for pairing with any Indian curry or dish.

Get the recipe: Jeera Rice.

Kheer (Rice Pudding)

Kheer in sliver bowls. — Kheer. Image Credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Indulge in a bowl of creamy and decadent Indian rice pudding, also known as kheer, made with three main ingredients - rice, milk, and sugar. Making it in an Instant Pot electric pressure cooker is incredibly easy and saves time. In just 20 minutes (with less than 5 minutes of hands-on time), you will have a rich and luscious kheer that's sure to impress your family and friends.

Get the recipe: Instant Pot Kheer.

Sweet Lassi

Indulge in the creamy and refreshing taste of sweet lassi! Made with yogurt, sugar, and a touch of aromatic flavors, it's the perfect drink to satisfy your cravings.

Get the recipe: Sweet Lassi.