Bring a touch of India to your dinner table with these 15 unique recipes. Each one tells a story of a different region and its culinary heritage. These dishes are a great way to break out of your usual cooking routine and try something new. You don’t need to be an expert chef to enjoy making these meals; just follow the simple steps. Experience the joy of discovering new flavors and techniques tonight.
Ragi Upma
Made from finger millet, Ragi Upma is a nutritious and delicious breakfast option. It’s packed with essential nutrients and has a unique, slightly nutty flavor. This dish is easy to prepare and makes for a wholesome start to your day. Enjoy it with a dollop of yogurt or a side of chutney for added taste.
Get the Recipe: Ragi Upma
Instant Pot Chicken Pulao
A quick and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for busy nights. Instant Pot Chicken Pulao combines tender chicken with aromatic rice, infused with spices that bring out its rich taste. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Serve it with a side of raita or a simple salad for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Pulao
Sabudana Khichdi Recipe
A light and nutritious meal perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. Sabudana Khichdi is a popular dish made with tapioca pearls, peanuts, and mild spices. It’s often enjoyed during fasting periods but is great any time of the year. Its chewy texture and subtle flavors make it a unique addition to your meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Sabudana Khichdi Recipe
Ladi Pav
These soft, fluffy bread rolls, known as Ladi Pav, are a staple in many Indian households. They are often paired with spicy curries or used to make street food favorites like pav bhaji. Their light texture makes them ideal for soaking up sauces and gravies. Bake a batch and enjoy them fresh out of the oven with a pat of butter.
Get the Recipe: Ladi Pav
Paneer Tikka Masala
A vegetarian dish, Paneer Tikka Masala features soft paneer cubes in a rich, spiced tomato gravy. This dish is a favorite among many and pairs well with naan or rice. The creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it a standout meal. It’s a great way to enjoy a meat-free dinner that’s still full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Paneer Tikka Masala
Keema Matar
This dish is sure to become a family favorite. Keema Matar is a flavorful ground meat dish cooked with green peas and a blend of spices. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed with rice, bread, or even as a filling for wraps. The combination of tender meat and sweet peas makes it a hearty and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Keema Matar
Instant Pot Masala Pasta
Combining Italian pasta with Indian spices, Instant Pot Masala Pasta is a fusion dish that’s both unique and tasty. The Instant Pot makes it easy to prepare, infusing the pasta with a blend of flavors in a short amount of time. This dish is perfect for when you want something different from the usual pasta. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Masala Pasta
Egg Fried Rice
Quick and easy, Egg Fried Rice is a go-to dish for a speedy meal. It combines fluffy rice with scrambled eggs and a variety of vegetables, all seasoned with soy sauce and spices. This dish is perfect for using up leftover rice and makes for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Enjoy it on its own or as a side dish.
Get the Recipe: Egg Fried Rice
Chilli Chicken
Enjoy the bold flavors and the satisfying crunch of this delectable dish. Chilli Chicken is a popular Indo-Chinese dish featuring crispy chicken pieces in a spicy, tangy sauce. It’s perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals. This dish is great as an appetizer or a main course when paired with rice or noodles.
Get the Recipe: Chilli Chicken
Hakka Noodles
Hakka Noodles is a classic Indo-Chinese dish that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor. It combines noodles with a mix of vegetables and a savory sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and pairs well with various Asian-inspired dishes. Enjoy the satisfying texture and taste of these stir-fried noodles.
Get the Recipe: Hakka Noodles
Chicken Biryani
A classic Indian dish, Chicken Biryani is known for its fragrant rice and tender chicken pieces. This layered dish is full of spices that make each bite a burst of flavor. It’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something truly satisfying. Pair it with a cooling yogurt dip for the ultimate experience.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani
Chilli Paneer
For a vegetarian twist on a favorite, Chilli Paneer offers a spicy and tangy flavor profile. This dish features paneer cubes tossed in a savory sauce with bell peppers and onions. It’s perfect as an appetizer or a main dish served with fried rice or noodles. Enjoy the combination of crispy paneer and vibrant flavors.
Get the Recipe: Chilli Paneer
Vegetable Fried Rice
Packed with colorful veggies, Vegetable Fried Rice is a nutritious and delicious meal option. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a flavorful dish. This recipe is quick to make and perfect for a weekday dinner. Serve it with a side of your favorite Asian-inspired entrée.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fried Rice
Tandoori Turkey
For a unique twist on a traditional dish, Tandoori Turkey combines the rich flavors of tandoori spices with tender turkey meat. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a hearty family meal. The marinade infuses the turkey with a blend of spices, making it flavorful and juicy. Serve it with naan or rice for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Turkey
Curried Green Bean Casserole
A new take on a classic, Curried Green Bean Casserole adds an Indian twist to this popular dish. The green beans are cooked with a creamy, spiced sauce that enhances their flavor. This casserole is perfect as a side dish or a main course for a vegetarian meal. Enjoy it with a side of rice or bread for a wholesome dinner.
Get the Recipe: Curried Green Bean Casserole