Are you a fan of aromatic and spicy flavors? Do you love the convenience of slow cooking? Then you’re in luck! We’ve gathered 18 mouth-watering slow cooker Indian recipes that are sure to become your new favorites. From classic Butter Chicken to flavorful Vegetable Korma, these recipes showcase the rich diversity of Indian cuisine.
Whether you’re a busy professional or a family with little time to spare, slow cookers are the perfect solution for cooking up delicious meals without much fuss. Simply toss all the ingredients into the pot in the morning, and come home to a fragrant feast that’s ready to devour.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through India, exploring the bold flavors of spices, herbs, and chilies that make these recipes so unique. Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these easy-to-make slow cooker Indian recipes!
Butter Chicken Slow Cooker Delight
Elevate your mealtime with this creamy, aromatic slow cooker recipe that combines the rich flavors of India and the convenience of a slow cooker. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tsp curry powder
– 1 tsp garam masala
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, butter, curry powder, and garam masala.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
This slow cooker recipe is a simplified version of the popular Indian dish, where marinated chicken cooked in a rich and creamy tomato sauce simmers away to tender perfection. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garam masala
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Place chicken in the slow cooker and add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegetable Korma in the Slow Cooker
This flavorful and aromatic curry is a perfect blend of spices and tender vegetables, all cooked to perfection in the slow cooker. With this easy recipe, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy meal without much fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, grated carrot, and sliced zucchini to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Add this spice mixture to the slow cooker.
3. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Lamb Rogan Josh
This classic Indian recipe is a staple of Kashmiri cuisine, and our slow cooker version makes it easy to prepare. With tender lamb, aromatic spices, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this dish is perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb or beef broth
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brown the lamb in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cardamom to the slow cooker.
3. Add browned lamb, diced tomatoes, broth, and salt.
4. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Easy Slow Cooker Chana Masala
This comforting Indian-inspired dish is a staple in many households, and with this simple recipe, you can make it easily at home. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a flavorful and aromatic curry that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chickpeas, onions, garlic, ghee or oil, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add salt to taste.
3. Mix in diced tomatoes and water or broth.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Slow Cooker Palak Paneer
Experience the rich flavors of India with this comforting slow cooker palak paneer recipe, featuring tender spinach and creamy paneer cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound paneer cheese, cut into cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup cream
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Add paneer, spinach, onion, garlic, butter, cumin, garam masala, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in cream and water. Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
4. Serve hot over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Dal Makhani
This slow cooker version of the popular Indian dish, Dal Makhani, is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for a chilly evening. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup black lentils (urad dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, water, oil, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. Stir in kidney beans and heavy cream or half-and-half.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Beef Vindaloo
This recipe brings together the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with the convenience of a slow cooker. With tender beef, aromatic spices, and a tangy tomato-based sauce, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket or chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine beef, onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together diced tomatoes and beef broth. Pour over the beef mixture.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Aloo Gobi
A classic North Indian dish, Slow Cooker Aloo Gobi is a comforting and flavorful vegetarian recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This slow cooker version makes it easy to prepare a delicious meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 large potato (peeled and cubed)
– 1 medium cauliflower (broken into florets)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Add the cubed potato, cauliflower florets, chopped onions, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the ghee or oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric powder, and salt. Pour this mixture over the vegetables in the slow cooker.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and water to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot with naan, rice, or roti.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Saag Chicken
Experience the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with this effortless slow cooker recipe that combines tender chicken with creamy spinach and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp garam masala
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, cumin, curry powder, and garam masala.
2. Add the chicken, diced tomatoes, garlic, spinach leaves, and 1/4 cup water to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to add a creamy texture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Malai Kofta
This recipe combines the flavors of India with the convenience of a slow cooker, resulting in tender and flavorful malai koftas (pan-seared dumplings) smothered in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb or beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground lamb or beef, onion, garlic, ginger, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric, and salt. Mix well.
2. Divide the mixture into 8-10 portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
3. Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pan-fry the koftas until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. In the slow cooker, combine butter, diced tomatoes, and heavy cream. Stir well to melt butter.
5. Add the cooked koftas to the slow cooker and simmer on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Slow Cooker Goan Fish Curry
This flavorful and aromatic curry is a classic Goan dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. With its rich and creamy sauce, succulent fish, and warm spices, this slow cooker recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup water
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine fish, onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Pour in coconut milk and water.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Paneer Butter Masala
This rich and creamy slow cooker dish is a perfect blend of spices, paneer (Indian cheese), and butter. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a flavorful and aromatic curry that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 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 (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add onions, garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the slow cooker.
2. Add paneer, diced tomatoes, heavy cream or half-and-half, and butter. Stir gently to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Baingan Bharta
Baingan Bharta is a popular Indian dish made by roasting and mashing eggplants, then seasoning with aromatic spices. This slow cooker version simplifies the process, allowing you to enjoy this flavorful condiment without constant monitoring.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon tomato puree (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place them in the slow cooker.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt on top of the eggplant halves.
4. Drizzle with vegetable oil and add tomato puree if desired.
5. Cook for 6-8 hours or until the eggplants are tender and mashed.
6. Use a fork to mash the eggplants and mix with the spice mixture.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Slow Cooker Rajma Masala
Rajma masala is a popular Indian dish that originated from the Punjab region, made with kidney beans cooked in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce. This slow cooker recipe simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy this flavorful curry with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried kidney beans (rajma), soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp garam masala powder
– 1/2 tsp red chili powder (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add soaked kidney beans, onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and salt to the slow cooker.
2. Drizzle with vegetable oil.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Methi Chicken
A flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a busy day. This slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and yields tender, juicy chicken with a burst of fresh mint flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh methi leaves (fenugreek)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chopped onions, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt.
2. Add the chicken on top of the onion mixture.
3. Sprinkle methi leaves and diced tomatoes over the chicken.
4. Pour in the chicken broth.
5. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot with naan, rice, or roti.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Mushroom Masala
This recipe is a twist on the classic mushroom curry, made easy with the help of your slow cooker. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a rich and aromatic dish perfect for serving over rice or with naan bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine mushrooms, onions, garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and stir to combine.
3. Add diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir gently.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
7. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Jeera Rice with Peas
This flavorful rice dish is a staple in many Indian households. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can prepare this aromatic rice with minimal effort and enjoy it alongside your favorite curries or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon jeera (cumin) powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear.
2. Add the rice, water, jeera powder, salt, and baking soda to the slow cooker. Stir well.
3. Cook on Low for 4-5 hours or High for 2-3 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add the vegetable oil and peas. Stir gently.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (Low) or 2-3 hours (High)
Summary
Experience the rich flavors and aromas of Indian cuisine with these 18 delicious slow cooker recipes. From classic dishes like Butter Chicken Slow Cooker Delight and Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala to vegetarian options like Vegetable Korma in the Slow Cooker, there’s something for everyone. Explore the bold spices and creamy sauces of Slow Cooker Lamb Rogan Josh, Easy Slow Cooker Chana Masala, and many more. Perfect for busy home cooks, these slow cooker recipes ensure that you can enjoy authentic Indian flavors with minimal effort.
