Are you new to cooking Indian cuisine? Or perhaps you’re looking to spice up your meal routine with some exciting new flavors? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 easy Indian recipes perfect for beginners. From classic curries to comforting street food favorites, these dishes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, our beginner-friendly recipes will guide you through every step of the cooking process. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be whipping up authentic Indian flavors in no time.
In this article, we’ll cover everything from popular main courses like Butter Chicken and Chana Masala to comforting side dishes like Palak Paneer and Aloo Gobi. Plus, get ready for some tasty surprises like Vegetable Biryani and Rajma Chawal!
Stay tuned for the rest of our recipe roundup – it’s going to be a culinary adventure you won’t forget!
Butter Chicken
This classic Indian dish is a flavorful fusion of rich butter sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic spices. With its creamy tomato-based gravy and succulent chicken pieces, it’s no wonder Butter Chicken has become a global favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and spices (optional) for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until golden brown (5-6 minutes).
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat.
4. In the same pan, add cumin powder and coriander powder; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add diced tomatoes, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until sauce thickens.
6. Add marinated chicken to the pan and cook until cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chana Masala
This popular vegetarian dish is made with a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce, simmered with chickpeas and aromatic spices. Chana Masala is a staple in many Indian households and is often served with basmati rice or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and garam masala powder. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and salt.
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over basmati rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Palak Paneer
A creamy and flavorful Indian dish, Palak Paneer is a popular variation of paneer (Indian cheese) cooked in a rich spinach curry. This recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter or oil
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat butter or oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Add paneer cubes and water to the pan. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the paneer is fully coated in the spinach curry.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Aloo Gobi
Aloo Gobi is a popular Indian dish made with potatoes, cauliflower, and a blend of spices. This simple recipe combines the comforting flavors of roasted vegetables with the warmth of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized cubes
– 1 medium head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together potatoes and cauliflower.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add garlic, cumin, garam masala powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the potato-cauliflower mixture to the pan and stir well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and roast for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
7. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Dal Tadka
A classic Indian lentil curry made with red lentils, onions, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 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
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Drain the lentils and add them to the pan. Stir well.
5. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable Biryani
This Vegetable Biryani recipe is a simple and satisfying dish that combines the aromatic flavors of basmati rice with a colorful medley of vegetables. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, cauliflower, and bell peppers)
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
2. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated carrot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add mixed vegetables, salt, and 2 cups water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil.
4. Drain excess water and add basmati rice to the saucepan. Stir gently to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rajma Chawal
A classic North Indian dish, Rajma Chawal is a flavorful combination of kidney beans cooked in a spicy tomato-based curry served with basmati rice. This comforting meal is a staple in many Indian households and is perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kidney beans (rajma)
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups basmati rice
Instructions:
1. Cook the kidney beans according to package instructions or soak overnight and pressure cook until tender.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Saute until onions are translucent.
3. Add diced tomatoes and saute for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the cooked kidney beans to the tomato mixture and stir well.
5. Serve with basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pav Bhaji
A popular Indian street food, Pav Bhaji is a flavorful and filling snack made with mashed vegetables, served with soft pav bread and topped with butter, cheese, and spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, potatoes), cooked and mashed
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 4-6 pav bread slices
– Butter, for serving
– Cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomato and cooked vegetables. Stir well.
5. Add cumin seeds, coriander powder, and salt to taste.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
7. Split the pav bread in half and butter each half.
8. Serve the Pav Bhaji with the pav bread and top with cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Samosa
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this classic Indian snack, Samosa! This recipe combines crispy pastry with a flavorful filling made from potatoes, peas, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Filling:
– 2 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Mix flour and salt in a bowl.
2. Add ghee or oil and lukewarm water to form dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes.
4. Divide into small portions and shape into balls.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
6. Place 1 tablespoon of filling in the center.
7. Fold the dough into a triangle or square shape, sealing edges.
8. Fry in hot oil until golden brown (3-4 minutes) or bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Masoor Dal
A popular Indian dish made with red lentils, this flavorful curry is a staple in many households. Masoor Dal is a comforting and nutritious option for a quick meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and boil the lentils with 2 cups of fresh water until they are soft and mushy.
3. In a pan, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Stir in the cumin, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Combine the cooked lentils with the spice mixture and stir well to combine.
7. Simmer the curry for 10-15 minutes or until it reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Jeera Rice
Aromatic and flavorful, Jeera Rice is a popular Indian dish that pairs well with a variety of curries and main courses. This simple recipe yields a fragrant and fluffy rice dish infused with the warmth of cumin seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain the water and set the rice aside.
2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 10-15 seconds.
3. Add the soaked rice to the saucepan and stir well to coat with the oil and jeera mixture.
4. Add 1 cup of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baingan Bharta
Baingan Bharta is a popular Indian recipe that transforms the humble eggplant into a rich and flavorful dish, perfect for accompanying naan or rice. This simple yet satisfying recipe brings out the best in this versatile vegetable.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the eggplants in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until they are soft and charred.
4. Remove the eggplants from the oven and let them cool slightly.
5. Scoop out the flesh of the eggplants and place it in a blender or food processor with the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, turmeric powder, and salt.
6. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
7. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
8. Pour the blended eggplant mixture into the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Poha
Poha is a popular Indian breakfast dish made from flattened rice flakes, also known asavenport or puffed rice. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick morning meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup poha (flattened rice flakes)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped tomato
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the poha flakes with cold water and drain well.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the chopped tomato and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the poha flakes to the skillet and stir well to combine with the onion-tomato mixture.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the poha is lightly toasted and crispy.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with lemon wedges and chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Upma
Upma is a popular Indian breakfast dish made with semolina (suji) and flavored with spices and herbs. This simple recipe yields a comforting, warm bowl of goodness that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina (suji)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee or oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
2. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Gradually add the semolina, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Add 1 cup of water and stir well.
6. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the upma thickens slightly.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roti
Roti, a popular Indian flatbread, is a staple in many households. With this simple recipe, you can make authentic rotis at home that are perfect for serving with your favorite curries and stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in the lukewarm water and knead the dough until it becomes smooth and pliable.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 6 inches in diameter.
6. Heat a non-stick skillet or tava over medium heat.
7. Place a roti on the skillet and cook for 1 minute, flipping frequently to prevent burning.
8. Brush with ghee or oil and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Idli with Sambar
Idli, a traditional South Indian dish, pairs perfectly with the flavorful and aromatic sambar. This recipe is a classic combination that’s easy to make and delicious to eat.
Ingredients:
For Idlis:
– 2 cups of idli rava (steamed rice flakes)
– 1 cup of yogurt
– 1/2 cup of lukewarm water
– Salt, to taste
For Sambar:
– 1 cup of split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon of sambar powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix idli rava with yogurt and lukewarm water to form a thick batter.
2. Steam the batter in an idli steamer or a pressure cooker for 10-12 minutes.
3. In a pan, heat oil and sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until softened.
4. Add split red lentils, sambar powder, and salt. Mix well with 2 cups of water.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the dal is cooked.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dosa
A popular South Indian breakfast or snack dish, dosa is a thin and crispy rice crepe. This simple recipe yields a deliciously flavorful and soft dosa that pairs well with sambar and chutney.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1/4 cup of urad dal (split black gram)
– 1/4 cup of fenugreek seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon of asafoetida
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 cup of lukewarm water
– Ghee or oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Soak the urad dal and fenugreek seeds in water for at least 4 hours. Drain the water and grind the mixture into a smooth paste using minimal water.
2. Mix the cooked rice with the ground paste, asafoetida, and salt. Add lukewarm water to form a thick batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Brush with ghee or oil.
4. Pour a small ladle of batter onto the pan and spread it evenly to form a thin circle.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to curl. Flip and cook for another minute.
6. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes per batch (depending on the number of dosas).
Malai Kofta
A popular Indian dessert, Malai Kofta is a creamy and sweet treat that consists of dumplings made from paneer (Indian cheese) coated in a light and airy syrup. This recipe provides a simple and easy-to-follow guide to making these delightful treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), crumbled
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons cornflour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Chopped nuts and dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the crumbled paneer, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the milk and whisk until smooth.
3. Heat the ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat.
4. Using wet hands, shape small portions of the paneer mixture into dumplings.
5. Fry the dumplings in the pan for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are lightly browned.
6. Remove the dumplings from the pan and set aside.
7. In a separate pan, combine the milk and cornflour. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
8. Add the sugar to the pan and stir until dissolved.
9. Add the fried paneer dumplings to the syrup and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until they are fully coated.
10. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped nuts and dried fruits if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kheer
Kheer, a traditional Indian pudding, is a comforting dessert made with milk, sugar, and rice. This creamy version is flavored with cardamom and saffron for added depth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– A few strands of saffron, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Ghee or unsalted butter, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain the water and set the rice aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and cardamom powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to simmer.
3. Add the soaked saffron and its liquid to the milk mixture. Stir well.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir gently to combine.
5. Reduce the heat to low and cook, covered, for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the kheer has thickened slightly.
6. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with ghee or butter if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Gulab Jamun
Gulab Jamun is a popular Indian dessert made with milk solids and deep-fried to perfection, then soaked in a sweet syrup flavored with rosewater and cardamom. This simple recipe yields soft, fluffy dumplings smothered in a fragrant and sweet sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk powder
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– For the syrup:
+ 1 cup granulated sugar
+ 1 cup water
+ 1 tablespoon rosewater
+ 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Mix milk powder, water, and salt to form a dough.
2. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each into a ball.
4. Deep-fry the balls in hot oil until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Remove from oil and soak in the syrup mixture (see below) for at least 2 hours.
6. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with chopped nuts or dried fruits if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of India with these easy and delicious recipes perfect for beginners! From classic dishes like Butter Chicken and Chana Masala to popular street foods like Samosa and Pav Bhaji, this collection has something for everyone. Try your hand at making tender Dal Tadka or creamy Palak Paneer. Explore the world of rice dishes with Vegetable Biryani and Jeera Rice. And don’t forget to indulge in sweet treats like Kheer and Gulab Jamun. With these 20 recipes, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an Indian cooking master!
