Are you a fan of bold flavors and spicy dishes? Look no further! Indian cuisine has a plethora of mouth-watering options that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From creamy curries to crispy street food, India’s diverse culinary landscape has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 flavorful Indian recipes that are perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals.
Whether you’re a seasoned spice lover or just looking to mix things up, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic Butter Chicken and Chana Masala to innovative Palak Paneer and Samosa recipes, we’ll be diving into the best of Indian cuisine has to offer.
Butter Chicken
A rich and creamy Indian dish that combines tender chicken with a flavorful tomato-based sauce, served over basmati rice. This recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cumin, coriander, garam masala, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Combine cooked chicken with tomato sauce and stir well. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
6. Serve hot over basmati rice or naan bread, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chana Masala
This popular Indian dish is a flavorful and comforting vegetarian option made with chickpeas cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce, warming spices, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish to complement your favorite curries.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook onions and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cardamom; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, lemon juice, and chickpeas.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Palak Paneer
Experience the creamy richness of Indian cuisine with this classic spinach-based dish. Palak Paneer is a popular North Indian recipe that combines smooth spinach puree with soft paneer (Indian cheese) and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup paneer, cut into small cubes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup water or chicken broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, garam masala, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add spinach leaves and water/broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until spinach is wilted.
4. Stir in paneer cubes and cook until heated through.
5. Serve Palak Paneer hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Biryani
Experience the aromatic flavors of India with this simple and delicious Saffron-Infused Biryani recipe. This classic dish is a staple in many Indian households, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 pound boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add chicken, garlic, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until the chicken is browned.
4. Rinse rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and add to the saucepan with saffron mixture.
5. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
6. Fluff the biryani with a fork and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Samosa
Samosas are a popular Indian snack or appetizer that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. This recipe yields crispy and flavorful samosas filled with spiced potatoes and peas.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Filling:
– 2 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
– 1 cup peas
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Mix flour, salt, and baking powder in a bowl.
2. Add ghee or oil and lukewarm water; knead into a dough.
3. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center.
6. Fold the dough into a triangle and press edges to seal.
7. Fry samosas in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
8. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dal Tadka
Dal Tadka is a popular Indian curry made with red lentils and a blend of aromatic spices. This recipe is a flavorful and comforting meal that can be served with rice, roti, or naan.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups water
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the soaked lentils and water to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Aloo Gobi
A flavorful and aromatic Indian dish, Aloo Gobi is a popular vegetarian recipe that combines the natural sweetness of potatoes and cauliflower with a blend of spices. This simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they start to brown (3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add potatoes and cauliflower. Stir well to combine.
5. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Rogan Josh
A classic Kashmiri dish, Rogan Josh is a flavorful lamb curry made with aromatic spices and tender chunks of lamb. This recipe yields a rich, thick sauce that pairs perfectly with basmati rice or naan bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, browned lamb, salt, and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Pav Bhaji
A flavorful street food from India, Pav Bhaji is a popular dish made with mashed vegetables and served with soft bread rolls. This recipe brings the authentic taste of Mumbai’s streets to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, cauliflower)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon pav bhaji masala
– Salt, to taste
– 4 bread rolls, for serving
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and sauté until they are translucent.
3. Add the garlic, tomato, potatoes, mixed vegetables, pav bhaji masala, and salt. Stir well.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the vegetables are mashed and the mixture is thick.
5. Serve the bhaji with soft bread rolls and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Masala Dosa
Masala dosa is a popular South Indian dish that consists of a crispy rice and lentil crepe filled with spiced potatoes and onions. This recipe yields a delicious and flavorful masala dosa that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of idli rice
– 1 cup of split black gram (urad dal)
– 1/4 teaspoon of methi seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– Water, as needed
– Filling ingredients:
+ 2 medium-sized potatoes, boiled and mashed
+ 1 onion, finely chopped
+ 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
+ 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
+ Salt, to taste
+ Ghee or oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and dal separately and soak them in water for at least 4 hours.
2. Drain the water and grind the rice and dal into a smooth batter using a grinder or blender.
3. Add salt, methi seeds, and enough water to make a thick but pourable consistency.
4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and brush with ghee or oil.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter onto the pan and spread it evenly to form a circle.
6. Place about 2 tablespoons of the potato filling in the center of the dosa.
7. Fold the dosa into a triangle or any other shape you prefer.
8. Cook for another minute, then flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes to make the batter and cook the dosas.
Vada Pav
Vada pav is a popular street food from India that consists of a crispy potato dumpling served in a bread bun. This recipe provides a simple and authentic way to make vada pav at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup gram flour (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Bread buns (pav), for serving
Instructions:
1. Mix the mashed potatoes with onion, garlic, gram flour, and salt.
2. Divide the mixture into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
3. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Fry the potato disks until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Serve the vadas (fried potatoes) in bread buns with your choice of chutney or sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Malai Kofta
Malai Kofta is a popular Indian dish that combines the richness of paneer (Indian cheese) with spices and nuts, wrapped in a flavorful gravy. This recipe yields a creamy and aromatic treat perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, crumbled
– 1/2 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/4 cup chopped cashews
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix paneer, besan, cashews, ghee or oil, onion, garlic, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt.
3. Shape into small balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. In a pan, heat coconut milk over medium heat. Add the baked koftas and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until well coated.
6. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Pani Puri
Pani puri, also known as golgappas or puchkas, is a popular Indian snack that’s both flavorful and fun to eat. This recipe makes about 20-25 pieces of crispy fried dough filled with spiced potatoes, onions, and tamarind water.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spiced potato mixture (see below)
– Tamarind water
– Chopped onions and coriander leaves for garnish
Spiced Potato Mixture:
– 2 large boiled potatoes, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt to taste
– Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Mix flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add lukewarm water and knead into a soft dough.
2. Divide the dough into small portions and roll out into thin circles.
3. Fry the dough in hot oil until crispy. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
4. Assemble pani puris by filling with spiced potato mixture, tamarind water, and garnishing with onions and coriander leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including frying time)
Chole Bhature
A flavorful and spicy North Indian dish that combines the richness of chickpea curry with a crispy, flaky bread. Chole Bhature is a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpeas
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons oil
– 4-5 Bhature bread (store-bought or homemade)
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a pan, heat oil and sauté onions until golden brown.
2. Add cumin seeds, garlic, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chickpeas, salt, and water. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
4. Meanwhile, heat a non-stick pan and cook Bhature bread according to package instructions (or make your own).
5. Serve Chole over Bhature, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tandoori Chicken
Experience the authentic flavors of India with this simple recipe for Tandoori Chicken. Marinated in a blend of spices and yogurt, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons tandoori masala powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, tandoori masala powder, garam masala powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, mixing well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rajma Chawal
Rajma Chawal is a popular North Indian dish made with kidney beans (rajma) cooked in a flavorful tomato-based gravy and served over basmati rice. This simple recipe is a staple in many Indian households and is often paired with naan or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups basmati rice
– Water, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Cook the kidney beans according to package instructions or by boiling them until tender.
2. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until they turn golden brown.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric powder. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes and cook until they break down and the mixture thickens.
5. Add cooked kidney beans and salt to taste.
6. Serve over basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dhokla
Dhokla is a classic Gujarati snack that’s easy to make and delicious to eat. This fermented rice and lentil batter dish is perfect for any time of day, whether as a breakfast option or an afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon fenugreek seeds (optional)
– Salt to taste
– Water for batter consistency
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and blend the lentils with cooked rice, baking soda, and fenugreek seeds (if using) into a smooth paste.
3. Add salt to taste and mix well.
4. Apply a thin layer of oil on a non-stick pan or a ceramic plate.
5. Pour the batter onto the prepared surface and spread it evenly.
6. Cover with a lid or plastic wrap and let it ferment in a warm place for 12-15 hours.
7. Remove the lid or wrap, cut into diamonds or squares, and serve with chutney, tea, or as a snack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 hours (fermentation time)
Korma
Experience the rich flavors of India with this classic Korma recipe, a mild and creamy curry dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup water or chicken broth
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk and water or broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Idli Sambar
A classic South Indian dish, Idli Sambar is a comforting combination of soft idlis (steamed rice cakes) served with a flavorful and spicy lentil-based vegetable stew. This recipe makes for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup split red gram lentils (masoor dal)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 teaspoon sambar powder
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
– Vegetable oil or ghee, for frying
– Idlis (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add diced tomato and cook until softened.
4. Add cooked lentils, sambar powder, and salt. Mix well.
5. Gradually add water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
7. Serve Idlis with hot Sambar and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gulab Jamun
Gulab Jamun is a popular Indian dessert that consists of dumplings made from milk solids and deep-fried to perfection, then soaked in a sweet syrup. This recipe yields soft and fluffy jamuns with a hint of rosewater and cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Syrup ingredients:
+ 1 cup sugar
+ 1 cup water
+ 1 tablespoon rosewater
+ 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together milk powder and lukewarm water to form a smooth dough.
2. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Deep-fry the jamuns in hot oil until they are golden brown.
5. Remove the fried jamuns from the oil and soak them in the syrup mixture.
6. Let the jamuns sit in the syrup for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Cooking Time:
– Frying: 3-4 minutes per batch
– Syrup soaking: 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 mouth-watering Indian recipes! From creamy curries like Palak Paneer and Butter Chicken, to flavorful rice dishes like Biryani and Dal Tadka, there’s something for every taste bud. Explore a variety of snacks like Samosa and Pav Bhaji, or indulge in popular street foods like Vada Pav and Pani Puri. Whether you’re a fan of spicy Rogan Josh or creamy Malai Kofta, this collection has got you covered.
