Ready to kick dinner boredom to the curb? These 13 Indian dishes are here to rescue your palate from their everyday routine. Think of them as your spicy superheroes, swooping in with bold flavors and a dash of excitement. Plus, they’re easy enough to whip up without needing gourmet superpowers!
Bombay Sandwiches
Combining vibrant veggies with bold spices, Bombay Sandwiches are a go-to for a quick bite that doesn’t compromise on the flavor punch. Eaten widely as street food, they bring a taste of Indian hustle to your plate. Perfect for lunch or a snack, they pack a spicy kick that can liven up your ordinary sandwich. Whether you like them grilled or cold, these sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser that serve up a unique twist on comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Bombay Sandwiches
Mulligatawny Soup
Imagine curling up with a warm bowl that’s got a heat that slowly builds and satisfies with each spoonful. Mulligatawny Soup is just that, a rich and warming experience that introduces a spicy touch to your meal. Its origins reflect a blend of Indian and Western traditions. Ideal for chilly days, this soup can become a staple for those looking for a bold beginning to their dining.
Get the Recipe: Mulligatawny Soup
Samosas
Bite into a crispy exterior to find a hot, spicy filling that makes Samosas irresistible. These triangular favorites are a celebration of Indian flavors, enjoyed as a snack or a side dish. Originating from Northern India, they have won hearts globally and can be found in almost any Indian gathering. Samosas are versatile, and whether they’re filled with meat or vegetables, they’re a testimony to the joy of Indian snacking.
Get the Recipe: Samosas
Indian Frankies
Street food lovers, meet your match with Indian Frankies. A wrap filled with spiced up fillings, Frankies are the subcontinent’s answer to a quick, flavorful meal on the go. They’ve made a name for themselves by being packed with zest and easy to customize to your palate. For anyone who loves a good spicy wrap, Frankies are a must-try, blending convenience with a full-throttle flavor experience.
Get the Recipe: Indian Frankies
Butter Garlic Naan
The next time you’re craving something to dip into your curry, reach for Butter Garlic Naan. This bread is all about bringing out the best in other dishes while also shining on its own with the simple yet irresistible combination of butter and garlic. It’s typically enjoyed hot, which allows the butter to melt deliciously into the fluffy bread. Whether you’re scooping up sauce or enjoying it by itself, Butter Garlic Naan is a staple side that complements any spicy meal.
Get the Recipe: Butter Garlic Naan
Kerala Fish Curry
With coastal flavors that sing of the sea, Kerala Fish Curry brings a spicy tang to the table that seafood enthusiasts will appreciate. Hailing from the southwestern shores of India, this dish showcases how spices can transform a simple fish to something extraordinary. Often served with a side of rice to balance the heat, it’s a wonderful choice for anyone looking to add some pizzazz to their seafood fare. Don’t overlook this curry when planning an adventurous meal.
Get the Recipe: Kerala Fish Curry
Instant Pot Chicken Korma
For a hearty meal that’s both spicy and comforting, reach for Instant Pot Chicken Korma. This dish is all about bringing a deep, robust spice blend into harmony with tender chicken. The Instant Pot does the heavy lifting, making this complex dish more accessible for day-to-day dining. It’s a classic choice for anyone craving the warmth of traditional Indian spices in a less time-consuming format.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Korma
Cilantro Mint Chutney
Sometimes, it’s the little things that add the most excitement, like Cilantro Mint Chutney, a zippy condiment that can punch up any meal. This vibrant green mix is your ticket to adding a fresh, zingy element to whichever dish it accompanies. Often paired with snacks like samosas or as a spread in wraps, its versatility and bold taste make it a fan favorite. If you’re looking to add a fresh burst of heat to your dishes, this chutney won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Mint Chutney
Palak Paneer
Balancing the heat with a lush, creamy base, Palak Paneer is a smooth blend of soft cheese cubes in a spicy spinach sauce. This dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy something hearty without overwhelming their palate. It’s a beautiful embodiment of Indian cooking—spice-laden yet delicate. For a rich, flavorful meal that still offers a kick, Palak Paneer is a top pick.
Get the Recipe: Palak Paneer
Cucumber Raita
On the hunt for a cooler counterpart to your spicy dishes? Cucumber Raita is a refreshing side, providing a cool down with its creamy texture and subtle spice undertones. It acts as a perfect companion to balance out bolder dishes, allowing you to appreciate their heat without the burn. Simple yet effective, this raita is a must-have for those who enjoy a temperature play in their spicy dining experiences.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Raita
Instant Pot Chicken Biryani
When you want all the explosive flavors of Indian spices but are short on time, Instant Pot Chicken Biryani is your savior. It weaves together the aromatic spices with succulent chicken and rice into a one-pot wonder. This dish is a beloved classic for its rich layers of flavor and the convenience of modern cooking. It stands testament to the fact that traditional spicy dishes can still fit into busy lives.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Biryani
Onion Samosas
For those who favor the allium’s punch, Onion Samosas bring that sharp, tantalizing edge to the beloved snack format. Slightly different from their classic counterparts, they’re a tribute to the love of onions in Indian spice culture. Crunchy on the outside, full of heat and flavor on the inside, they’re perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a side to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Onion Samosas
Chicken Tikka Wrap
If you’re in the mood for a handheld taste of India, a Chicken Tikka Wrap won’t steer you wrong. This wrap is a hearty ensemble of spiced chicken encased in a soft wrap bread. Ideal for lunch, a quick dinner, or even a fulfilling snack, it offers a burst of spice that’s both manageable and delicious. Chicken Tikka Wrap turns a classic Indian appetizer into a portable feast.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Wrap