Lovers of Indian cuisine are not surprised that there are sooooo many delicious recipes for Indian food out there. However, for those less familiar, the different spices and flavors can feel a little overwhelming.
We’re here to help! In this blog post, we’re sharing tasty and healthy recipes for Indian food you’ll want to enjoy over and over again.
Yummy Recipes for Indian Food
Vegan peanut curry with mushrooms and chickpeas
This is a recipe that’s near and dear to our hearts because it can be tricky to find vegan recipes that look great, taste great, AND are packed with flavor. This peanut curry takes all the guesswork out of making a yummy curry from the comfort of your kitchen.
And, it couldn’t possibly be simpler! Just combine all ingredients into a large pot over medium heat, cover with a lid, bring to a boil, and simmer for 20 minutes. That’s really it! So don’t fret that Indian cuisine is too complicated for you … we’ve made it super easy. For an extra serving of healthy grains, try serving on top of Proper Good Brown Rice and Quinoa or Basmati Rice.
Proper Good Golden Lentil Dahl
Did you know that many Indian recipes are naturally plant-based? Our golden lentil dahl takes inspiration from traditional Indian plant-based curries and uses a variety of vegan ingredients, such as lentils, potatoes, and coconut milk. Not to mention a unique combination of lemon juice, mustard, cumin, turmeric, and garlic that provides excellent flavor.
With zero added sugar, this Indian food “dahl”-ing (see what we did, there?! ;) ) is sure to please everyone in your household … or just to enjoy yourself!
Proper Good Chana Masala
Indian cuisine is so unique because the region each recipe originates from affects the flavors and spices inside–how cool! This traditional chana masala recipe is inspired by the flavors of Northern India. Chickpeas, tomatoes, and north Indian spices combine with mango, cinnamon, cumin, ginger and garlic to make a truly unique and flavor-packed meal.
This recipe is also plant-based but doesn’t skimp on protein! It includes 11 grams of protein to keep you feeling full and happy for hours. And, enjoy guilt-free knowing this chana masala is gluten-free, low-sodium, and has zero added sugar.
Matar Paneer
Matar paneer is a popular North Indian dish that consists of paneer and peas cooked in spicy, flavorful curry. In Hindi, paneer actually translates to ‘Indian cheese’–who knew?! This is a classic Indian dish that can be made in a variety of ways. Matar paneer consists of gravy, which is often onions and tomatoes with various spices. Green peas and paneer are then added to this curry base!
The author of this recipe for Indian food offers a helpful step by step guide on how to make matar paneer with pictures, too. There’s also an Instant Pot version for those who wish to set it and forget it!
One pan butter chicken
This simple, creamy butter chicken recipe is served alongside cauliflower chunks for a serving of nutritious veggies! Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free for those with gluten sensitivity of celiac disease. Butter chicken is beloved due to the subtle balance of tanginess and velvety texture. You’ll even find butter chicken on tacos, rolls, pizzas, burgers and biryani.
Using under 10 ingredients, this butter chicken can be whipped up on a busy weeknight after work and enjoyed with friends or family. Or, solo with leftovers the next day! We’d suggest pairing it with basmati rice for a truly well-rounded meal.
Mango lassi pie
This pie is inspired by lassi, which is an Indian version of yogurt-based fruit smoothies. This version is healthy and garners delicious flavor from cardamom and lime zest, plus ripe Ataulfo mangoes. These types of mangoes are less fibrous and more flavorful than other variations of mango.
The pie can be stored for up to 5 days and the only equipment that’s needed is a 9-inch pie pan. The perfect mix of sweet and zesty!
Tandoori chicken patty sandwiches
If you’re looking to switch up your usual burger, turkey, or veggie patty on the grill, this tandoori-inspried chicken patty recipe for Indian food is it! And while these burgers are typically made on a grill, for colder temps, it can also be made in a broiler. Tandoori is a popular Indian dish that includes chunks of meat that’s flavored with yogurt and spices. The meat is typically roasted in a clay oven called a “tandoor,” which lends itself to the name “tandoori!”
These tandoori chicken patties pair particularly well with a traditional burger bun or between naan. Naan is a type of bread that’s leavened, oven-baked or fried flatbread. Just 30 minutes of prep and 10-12 minutes of cook time!
Aloo Gobi
Aloo gobi is a popular Indian dish that is vegetarian. Aloo translates to potatoes and gobi translates to cauliflower. The recipe uses just one pot for ultimate simplicity and quick clean up! While this version does not call for tomatoes and onion, many versions include these vegetables and they can easily be added.
In short, recipes for Indian food often use simple ingredients yet are packed with flavor! We love Indian cuisine for that reason and have written about several Indian cuisine related topics … enjoy one of these articles next!
