The flavors and aromas of India are a culinary delight, with a rich variety of dishes that tantalize the taste buds. From creamy curries to fragrant biryanis, each region in this vast subcontinent has its own unique recipe traditions. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through 18 authentic Indian recipes that showcase the country’s incredible diversity and flavor profiles.
From popular street foods like Samosa and Pani Puri to comforting homestyle dishes like Chana Masala and Aloo Gobi, these recipes are sure to delight both seasoned foodies and those new to Indian cuisine. With a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, including iconic dishes like Butter Chicken and Tandoori Chicken, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouth-watering recipes.
Butter Chicken
A classic Indian dish that combines the richness of butter with the flavors of spices and chicken. This recipe is a simplified version of the popular Butter Chicken dish, served in many Indian restaurants.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate the chicken pieces in a mixture of ginger paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook until golden brown.
3. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and butter to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Paneer
Palak Paneer is a popular Indian dish that combines the creamy richness of paneer (Indian cheese) with the vibrant flavor of spinach. This recipe yields a delicious and comforting curry perfect for serving with naan, rice, or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup paneer cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree spinach, onions, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
2. Heat butter and oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin powder and coriander powder; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the blended spinach mixture and stir well to combine.
4. Add paneer cubes, water or broth, and salt. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the paneer is coated in the sauce.
6. Stir in heavy cream (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Chana Masala
Chana Masala is a popular North Indian dish made with chickpeas, onions, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices. This recipe yields a flavorful and creamy curry that’s perfect for serving over basmati rice or with naan bread.
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
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can tomato puree (14 oz)
– 1 cup water or vegetable broth
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper (if using).
5. Add chickpeas, tomato puree, water or broth, and salt. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Aloo Gobi
This popular vegetarian dish from North India is a flavorful combination of potatoes and cauliflower cooked in aromatic spices. Aloo Gobi is a staple in many Indian households, and its simplicity makes it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into small pieces
- 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add potatoes and cauliflower, and stir well to combine.
5. Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder (if using), and salt. Mix well.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Biryani
This aromatic rice dish from South India is a staple of many Indian households. With its perfect blend of spices, tender chicken, and fluffy basmati rice, this biryani recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a pan, add onions, garlic, cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until onions are golden brown.
3. Add chicken to the pan and cook until browned. Drain excess liquid.
4. Layer cooked rice and chicken mixture in a large pot or Dutch oven.
5. Pour 2 cups of water over the layers. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is fully cooked.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tandoori Chicken
Experience the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine with this simple recipe for Tandoori Chicken. Marinated in a blend of spices and yogurt, this dish is perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garam masala powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, mixing well to coat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
4. Preheat a grill or oven to medium-high heat.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dal Makhani
Dal Makhani, a popular North Indian dish, is a flavorful black lentil curry made with arhar dal (split red gram) and kidney beans in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce. This comforting vegetarian recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or as an accompaniment to rice, naan, or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup arhar dal
– 1 cup kidney beans (or Rajma)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream or half-and-half
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and garam masala powder. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the dal, kidney beans, tomatoes, salt, and butter or ghee. Stir well.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pani Puri
Pani puri, also known as golgappas or puchkas, is a popular Indian street food that consists of crispy puris (bread) filled with a mixture of flavored water, tamarind chutney, chili powder, and a variety of savory ingredients. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 200 g all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Tamarind chutney (homemade or store-bought)
– Green chili sauce or chili powder
– Yogurt or lemon juice for garnish
– Assorted fillings: boiled potatoes, chickpeas, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and more
Instructions:
1. Mix flour, salt, and baking powder in a bowl.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth dough.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes pliable.
4. Divide into small portions and roll out each portion into thin circles (puris).
5. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry puris until crispy.
6. Fill puris with your preferred fillings, drizzle with tamarind chutney, and sprinkle with chili powder.
7. Serve immediately and garnish with yogurt or lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including frying time)
Samosa
Samosas are a popular Indian snack or appetizer that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. This recipe combines the perfect blend of spices and crispy pastry to create a delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– Filling ingredients (below)
– Water, as needed
Filling:
– 1 cup cooked and mashed potatoes
– 1/2 cup peas
– 1/2 cup onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Lemon juice, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add ghee or oil while mixing until the dough forms.
3. Divide dough into small portions and roll out each portion into thin circles (about 3 inches in diameter).
4. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or a cone shape.
6. Press edges to seal and fry samosas until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rogan Josh
Experience the rich flavors of Kashmir with this iconic Rogan Josh recipe, a slow-cooked lamb curry that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb or beef broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lamb pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 2-3 hours or until lamb is tender.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pav Bhaji
Inspired by the vibrant streets of Mumbai, this recipe brings together a flavorful mix of vegetables, spices, and bread to create a comforting street food classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (beans, carrots, peas)
– 1 can of diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– 4-6 pav buns
– Butter or oil, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the garlic, mixed vegetables, cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and salt to taste. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
4. Warm the pav buns by wrapping them in a damp cloth and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the pav bhaji by spreading a spoonful of the vegetable mixture onto each bun, followed by a pat of butter or oil (if desired).
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-35 minutes.
Masala Dosa
A classic South Indian dish, Masala Dosa is a flavorful and crispy fermented crepe stuffed with spiced potatoes and onions. This recipe yields a delicious and authentic Masala Dosa that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of rice flour
– 1 cup of urad dal (split black gram)
– 1/2 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon of asafoetida powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 3/4 cup of lukewarm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 2 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
+ 1 large onion, finely chopped
+ 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds
+ 1/2 teaspoon of coriander powder
+ 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder
+ Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour, urad dal, fenugreek seeds, asafoetida powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to the mixture and mix until it forms a smooth batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and pour a ladle of batter into it.
4. Spread the batter evenly to form a thin layer.
5. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of the crepe.
6. Fold the crepe into a triangle or a cylindrical shape.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the Masala Dosa is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vada Pav
Vada pav is a popular Indian street food that consists of a crispy fried potato dumpling served in a soft bread bun. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
– 1/4 cup gram flour (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4-6 pav buns (small bread rolls)
– Green chutney or ketchup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Mix the mashed potatoes with gram flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on how large you want your vadas to be.
3. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten it slightly into a patty shape.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the vadas until they are golden brown, flipping them halfway through.
6. Drain the vadas on paper towels.
7. Assemble the vada pav by placing a hot vada into each pav bun.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (depending on frying time)
Kheer
Kheer is a popular Indian dessert made with milk, rice, and nuts. This creamy recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds and pistachios
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the rice and cook it with 3 cups of milk, sugar, and cardamom powder until the rice is cooked and the mixture thickens.
3. Add ghee and chopped nuts to the kheer and stir well.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gulab Jamun
Gulab Jamun is a popular Indian dessert made with dumplings soaked in a sweet syrup flavored with rosewater and cardamom. This classic treat is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk powder
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– Rosewater and cardamom for syrup
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together milk powder, flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. Add ghee or oil and mix until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth dough.
4. Cover and rest for 30 minutes.
5. Divide the dough into small portions and shape into balls.
6. Deep-fry the dumplings until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Drain and soak in warm syrup flavored with rosewater and cardamom.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Poha
Poha, a popular Indian snack, is made from flattened rice flakes that are quickly cooked with spices and herbs. This recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy poha as a breakfast or afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup poha (flattened rice flakes)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 green chili pepper, finely chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– Chopped fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the poha flakes in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. Heat oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion, green chili pepper, and salt. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the poha flakes to the pan and stir gently to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the poha is lightly toasted and fragrant.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Rajma Chawal
A classic North Indian comfort food, Rajma Chawal (Kidney Bean Curry with Basmati Rice) is a staple dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. This simple recipe brings together the flavors of slow-cooked kidney beans in a rich tomato-based sauce, served over fluffy basmati rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups water
– Basmati rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook kidney beans according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until golden brown. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cumin, garam masala, and salt. Stir for 30 seconds.
4. Add diced tomatoes, cooked kidney beans, and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
5. Serve over basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Idli Sambar
Idli sambar is a popular South Indian dish that pairs steamed idlis (rice cakes) with a flavorful and spicy vegetable-based lentil soup. This recipe makes 4-6 idlis, perfect for a family meal or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients:
– For the idlis:
+ 2 cups fermented idli batter
+ Water, as needed
– For the sambar:
+ 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
+ 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and peas)
+ 2 medium onions, chopped
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon sambar powder
+ Salt, to taste
+ Water, as needed
– For garnish:
+ Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Steam the idlis according to package instructions.
2. In a large pan, sauté the onions and garlic until golden.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, lentils, sambar powder, and salt. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Gradually add water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve the idlis with the warm sambar, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors and aromas of India with these 18 authentic recipes. From creamy curries like Butter Chicken and Palak Paneer to spicy stews like Chana Masala and Aloo Gobi, there’s something for every palate. Explore popular dishes like Biryani and Tandoori Chicken, as well as comforting bowls of Dal Makhani and Rajma Chawal. And don’t forget the sweet treats – Kheer and Gulab Jamun are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for inspiration, these recipes will transport you to the vibrant streets of India.
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