Unlock the potential of your kitchen with 19 unexpected Indian dishes that redefine your dining experience. These recipes are carefully created to introduce a range of tastes and textures that might be new to you. From the coastal flavors of the south to the robust dishes of the north, each recipe offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Indian cooking. Embrace this opportunity to explore new ingredients and techniques, adding a touch of adventure to your home dining routine.

Kala Chana Curry

Packed with protein and flavor, this dish features black chickpeas cooked in a rich, aromatic sauce. Kala Chana Curry is a staple in many Indian households, celebrated for its hearty and satisfying nature. It’s perfect for those looking to incorporate more plant-based proteins into their diet, offering a wholesome meal that pairs wonderfully with rice or flatbreads. Enjoy the deep, comforting flavors that make this curry a beloved choice for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Kala Chana Curry

Instant Pot Mysore Rasam

Enjoy a taste of South India with this tangy and spicy soup that’s effortlessly made in an Instant Pot. Mysore Rasam is known for its invigorating flavors, combining tangy tamarind with a blend of aromatic spices. Often enjoyed as a soup or poured over rice, this dish offers a way to experience traditional South Indian cuisine. Quick to prepare, it’s a great addition to any meal, bringing warmth to your dining table.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mysore Rasam

Sabudana Khichdi Recipe

This popular fasting dish features tapioca pearls cooked with peanuts and mild spices, creating a light yet filling meal. Sabudana Khichdi is often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, loved for its unique texture and subtle flavors. It’s a nutritious and satisfying option, perfect for those looking to try something different. This dish brings a touch of traditional Indian cuisine to your table in a tasty way.
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Instant Pot Butter Chicken

This creamy and flavorful dish, loved worldwide, is made even easier in an Instant Pot. Butter Chicken features tender pieces of chicken cooked in a luscious tomato-based sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with naan or rice for a satisfying meal that brings the taste of restaurant-quality cuisine to your home. It’s a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this beloved dish.
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Ragi Upma

A nutritious twist on the traditional upma, this dish is made with finger millet flour and packed with wholesome goodness. Ragi Upma is a hearty choice for breakfast or a light meal, combining the nutty flavor of ragi with vegetables. It’s an excellent option for those wanting to incorporate more whole grains into their diet. Enjoy this healthful and satisfying dish that offers a unique take on a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Ragi Upma

Instant Pot Idli Recipe

These soft, steamed rice cakes are a staple breakfast in South India, made quick and easy in an Instant Pot. Idlis are perfect for dipping into sambar or chutney, offering a light and nutritious start to your day. Their fluffy texture and subtle taste make them a favorite in many households. Ideal for those looking to try traditional South Indian cuisine with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Idli Recipe

Chicken Biryani

Offering a rich and satisfying experience, this flavorful and aromatic rice dish is layered with marinated chicken and spices. Chicken Biryani is a true celebration of Indian cuisine, with each bite infused with deep flavors. This dish is perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re in the mood for something extraordinary. Enjoy the complex yet harmonious taste that makes biryani a beloved choice around the world.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani

Ragi Idli

These nutritious idlis are a variation of the traditional rice cakes, made with finger millet flour for added health benefits. Ragi Idlis are light, fluffy, and perfect for a healthy breakfast, packed with nutrients and a slightly earthy flavor. Serve them with chutney and sambar for a complete and balanced meal. This dish is ideal for those looking to explore new and wholesome ingredients in their diet.
Get the Recipe: Ragi Idli

Instant Pot Chicken Pulao

This fragrant one-pot dish features rice and chicken cooked with aromatic spices, all made easy with an Instant Pot. Chicken Pulao is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting, homemade meal. The convenience of this recipe ensures a delicious result every time, pairing beautifully with a side of raita or salad. Enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors that make this dish a household favorite.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Pulao

Ladi Pav

These soft, fluffy bread rolls are a staple in Mumbai’s street food scene, perfect for making pav bhaji, vada pav, or simply enjoying with butter. Ladi Pav’s pillowy texture makes them a favorite accompaniment to many dishes, offering a taste of authentic Indian street food. Recreate the vibrant flavors of Mumbai at home with these versatile rolls. They are a great addition to any meal, adding a touch of Indian flair.
Get the Recipe: Ladi Pav

Instant Pot Masala Pasta

Combining the best of Indian and Italian cuisines, this dish features pasta cooked with Indian spices and vegetables, made easy in an Instant Pot. Masala Pasta offers a unique and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s a fun twist on traditional pasta, blending the familiar with the exotic. Enjoy the fusion of flavors that make this dish an unexpected treat.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Masala Pasta

Chicken Masala

Combining tender chicken pieces with a robust blend of spices, this dish is a classic favorite. Chicken Masala is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, offering a delicious and aromatic curry that pairs wonderfully with rice or naan. The rich, comforting flavors of this dish make it a staple in many Indian homes. It’s a go-to choice for anyone craving a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Masala

Keema Matar

This hearty dish features ground meat cooked with peas and a blend of spices, creating a rich and flavorful meal. Keema Matar pairs wonderfully with rice or flatbreads, making it a satisfying option for any day of the week. It’s loved for its robust taste and comforting nature, offering a delicious way to enjoy a traditional Indian favorite. Perfect for family meals or when you crave something hearty and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Keema Matar

Instant Pot Chicken Vindaloo

Experience the bold flavors of Goan cuisine with this spicy and tangy dish, made easy in an Instant Pot. Chicken Vindaloo features tender chicken pieces cooked in a vibrant sauce, offering a true taste of Goa. Serve it with rice or bread for a complete and satisfying meal. This dish brings the authentic taste of Indian coastal cooking to your home with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Vindaloo

Bombay Potatoes

This quick and flavorful side dish features potatoes cooked with a blend of spices, adding a touch of Indian flair to your meals. Bombay Potatoes are a popular choice for their spicy and tangy flavors, making them a great accompaniment to many main courses. Enjoy this easy-to-make dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. Perfect for spicing up your everyday meals.
Get the Recipe: Bombay Potatoes

Chilli Paneer

A popular Indo-Chinese dish, Chilli Paneer features paneer cubes tossed in a spicy and tangy sauce. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or main course, offering bold and vibrant flavors. The combination of paneer and spices creates a delicious and satisfying experience. Enjoy it with fried rice or noodles for a complete meal that satisfies the taste buds.
Get the Recipe: Chilli Paneer

Curried Roasted Carrots

This simple yet flavorful side dish features carrots roasted to perfection and tossed with a blend of spices. Curried Roasted Carrots are a healthy and delicious way to enjoy vegetables, bringing a touch of Indian spice to your table. Perfect for adding variety to your meals, this dish is both nutritious and tasty. It’s an easy way to upgrade your vegetable sides with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Curried Roasted Carrots

Hakka Noodles

Beloved in Indo-Chinese cuisine, Hakka Noodles feature stir-fried noodles with vegetables and a savory sauce. This dish is quick to prepare and offers a fusion of flavors, perfect for a speedy lunch or dinner. It’s a great option for those who enjoy a mix of Indian and Chinese cuisines, bringing together the best of both worlds. Enjoy the tasty and satisfying noodles that are a favorite in many households.
Get the Recipe: Hakka Noodles

Curried Egg Mayo Sandwich

A tasty twist on the classic egg salad sandwich, this version features a hint of Indian spices for added flavor. The Curried Egg Mayo Sandwich is a quick and easy option for lunch or a snack, combining creamy egg mayo with aromatic spices. It’s a treat for those looking to spice up their sandwich game. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying sandwich that offers a unique take on a familiar favorite.
Get the Recipe: Curried Egg Mayo Sandwich