When it comes to fusion cuisine, few things are as exciting as combining the bold flavors of India with the convenience and versatility of a taco. The result is a culinary mashup that’s both familiar and exotic at the same time. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 different spicy Indian tacos recipes that blend the rich spices and ingredients of India with the playful spirit of Mexican cuisine.
From classic dishes like butter chicken and chana masala to more adventurous options like lamb keema and egg curry, these recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. So whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to spice up your meal routine, we’ve got you covered with these delicious and easy-to-make Indian tacos recipes.
Butter Chicken Indian Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this creative fusion of Indian and Mexican cuisines! Butter chicken tacos combine the rich flavors of butter chicken with crispy tacos, creamy yogurt sauce, and crunchy cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp garam masala
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup yogurt sauce (see below)
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Grill or cook chicken breast until cooked through.
2. Melt butter in a pan and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add cumin, garam masala, and cayenne pepper; stir well.
4. Shred cooked chicken into the pan and toss with spice mixture.
5. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning chicken mixture onto a tortilla, followed by a dollop of yogurt sauce and garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yogurt Sauce:
– Mix 1 cup plain yogurt with 1 tbsp lemon juice and 1/2 tsp cumin.
– Refrigerate until ready to use.
Tandoori Spiced Beef Indian Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of India with this twist on traditional tacos, featuring tender beef in a tandoori-inspired spice blend. Serve with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (such as flank steak or skirt steak), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp tandoori masala powder
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Toppings of your choice (e.g. diced onions, sliced cucumbers, raita)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together tandoori masala powder, garam masala powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the beef strips to the spice mixture and toss to coat evenly.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together Greek yogurt and lemon juice. Add the beef strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the beef from marinade and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled beef, cilantro (if using), and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chana Masala Indian Tacos
This recipe combines the flavors of popular Indian dish Chana Masala with the convenience and fun of a taco. Spiced chickpeas, creamy tomato sauce, and crispy taco shells come together for a unique fusion that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Taco shells (corn or flour)
– Optional toppings: cilantro, yogurt, cucumber, carrots
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chickpeas and stir to combine. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add crushed tomatoes and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning Chana Masala mixture into shells and topping with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Tikka Indian Tacos
Experience the flavors of India with this unique fusion twist on traditional tacos! Crunchy tacos filled with marinated paneer (Indian cheese), grilled to perfection and served with a dollop of cool cucumber raita.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of paneer, cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garam masala
– 1 tsp cumin powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– 8-10 tacos shells
– Cucumber raita (store-bought or homemade)
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add paneer cubes to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove paneer from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill paneer for 3-4 minutes per side, until lightly charred and cooked through.
5. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by placing grilled paneer in the shell, followed by a dollop of cucumber raita and garnishing with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lamb Keema Indian Tacos
A twist on traditional tacos, Lamb Keema Indian Tacos bring together the flavors of India and Mexico. This recipe combines tender lamb with aromatic spices and crispy taco shells for a deliciously unique meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
– Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook, breaking up the lamb with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the lamb mixture into the shells and garnishing with cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Aloo Gobi Indian Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this unique fusion of Indian and Mexican flavors, featuring tender potatoes and cauliflower in a crispy shell. This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to spice up their taco Tuesday.
Ingredients:
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, and curry powder; cook for an additional minute.
3. Add potatoes and cauliflower; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the Aloo Gobi mixture onto a warmed tortilla and topping with black beans (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable Korma Indian Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this innovative fusion of Indian and Mexican flavors! This Vegetable Korma Indian Taco recipe combines the creamy richness of korma sauce with the crunch of tacos, all wrapped up in a delicious package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup korma sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder, garam masala, and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes and korma sauce; stir to combine.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with vegetable mixture and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Potato and Pea Indian Tacos
Spicy Potato and Pea Indian Tacos Recipe Summary:
This recipe combines the flavors of India with the convenience of a taco, featuring crispy tacos filled with spicy potato and pea filling, topped with cilantro and yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Yogurt or sour cream (optional)
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the diced potato until tender, then mash.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add peas to the pan and cook until thawed.
4. Stir in mashed potato and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Fill tacos with the spicy potato and pea mixture. Top with yogurt or sour cream, if desired, and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dal Makhani Indian Tacos
Experience the rich flavors of India’s famous black lentil curry, Dal Makhani, wrapped in a crispy taco shell. This innovative recipe combines traditional Indian spices with the bold flavors of Mexico.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Dal Makhani (black lentils and kidney beans)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened.
2. Add garlic, cumin, and garam masala. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning Dal Makhani onto a tortilla, followed by the onion-garlic mixture. Season with salt.
5. Garnish with cilantro and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Biryani-Style Chicken Indian Tacos
A twist on traditional tacos, these Biryani-Style Chicken Indian Tacos combine the flavors of India with the comfort of a taco. This recipe brings together juicy chicken, aromatic spices, and fluffy basmati rice in a crispy taco shell.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked basmati rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup Biryani spice blend (available at Indian grocery stores or online)
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables, Biryani spice blend, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well.
4. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the chicken mixture onto a shell, followed by a scoop of basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fish Curry Indian Tacos
Get ready to combine the bold flavors of India with the comfort of a taco! This unique recipe combines tender fish, aromatic spices, and creamy yogurt to create a flavorful filling that’s perfect for tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: cilantro, lime wedges, pickled carrots
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons oil over medium-high heat. Add fish and cook until opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric to the pan. Cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, yogurt, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the fish curry filling onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Egg Curry Indian Tacos
This recipe combines the creamy richness of egg curry with the convenience and fun of tacos, all wrapped up in a crispy shell. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked eggs
– 1/2 cup egg curry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
2. Spoon about 1/4 cup of egg curry sauce onto each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place 1-2 tablespoons of cooked eggs on top of the filling.
5. Fold the tortillas in half to enclose the filling.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Rajma Masala Indian Tacos
Combine the bold flavors of India with the comfort of a taco, and you get Rajma Masala Indian Tacos. This unique fusion dish is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to spice up their mealtime routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans (rajjma)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: cilantro, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent (3 minutes).
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in cooked kidney beans and season with salt to taste.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the Rajma Masala mixture onto the tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Malai Kofta Indian Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this creative fusion of Indian and Mexican flavors, featuring tender malai koftas (potato and pea dumplings) in a crispy taco shell.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 malai koftas (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 tacos shells
– 1/2 cup spiced yogurt sauce (ratha curry powder, garam masala, cumin, coriander, garlic, and cilantro)
– 1/4 cup mango chutney
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, or pickled red onions for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook the malai koftas until golden brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Warm the tacos shells according to package instructions.
4. Assemble the tacos by placing two cooked malai koftas per shell, followed by a dollop of spiced yogurt sauce, mango chutney, and cilantro.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and customize with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Goat Curry Indian Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of India with these innovative Goat Curry Indian Tacos! A twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines tender goat curry with crispy taco shells and fresh toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground goat meat
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup goat broth or water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Taco shells, for serving
– Chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ground goat meat in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onions, garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and goat broth or water; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve goat curry over taco shells with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Punjabi Kadhi Indian Tacos
Experience the flavors of Punjab with this unique fusion recipe that combines the popular North Indian dish, Kadhi, with the convenience and fun of tacos. This dish is sure to please both traditional and adventurous eaters alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 8-10 taco-sized tortillas
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together besan, water, baking soda, and salt until smooth.
2. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Pour the besan mixture into the pan and cook, stirring frequently, until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add chopped onion and garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in chickpeas and cook for an additional minute.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning Kadhi mixture onto a tortilla, garnishing with cilantro, and serving with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baingan Bharta Indian Tacos
Baingan Bharta Indian Tacos is a twist on traditional tacos, filled with the flavors of India. Roasted eggplant is blended into a rich and creamy filling, served in a crispy taco shell.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon garam masala
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Optional toppings: cilantro, lime juice, yogurt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Drizzle with oil and sprinkle with salt. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Let cool, then peel and chop into small pieces.
4. In a pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, garam masala, cumin powder, and chopped eggplant. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture is well combined.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions. Fill with the Baingan Bharta mixture and top with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Pav Bhaji Indian Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this innovative fusion of Indian flavors and Mexican convenience. This recipe combines the popular Indian street food, Pav Bhaji, with crispy tacos for a delightful twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Pav Bhaji mix (available at Indian grocery stores)
– 2 cups water
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced radishes, crumbled paneer (Indian cheese), pickled carrots
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pav Bhaji mix according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Fry the tortillas in hot oil until crispy and golden brown.
4. Assemble the tacos by spooning the Pav Bhaji mixture onto the fried tortilla, followed by your choice of toppings.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your taco game with these bold and flavorful Indian-inspired recipes! From classic butter chicken to lamb keema, paneer tikka to veggie korma, this collection of 18 spicy Indian tacos has something for everyone. With a range of protein options from beef to fish to goat, and an array of spices and sauces, you’ll be transported to the streets of India with each delicious bite. So why settle for just any taco when you can have a flavorful fiesta on a tortilla?