These satisfying Indian recipes will soon become staples in your weekly rotation. You'll find everything, from comforting slow-cooker butter chicken to crispy, golden samosas and pillowy-soft naan.
41 Indian Recipes You Can Make at Home
Updated on Jan. 22, 2025
1/41
Butter Chicken
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
50 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is my version of butter chicken, a classic curry dish beloved around the world. The yogurt marinade tenderizes the chicken and imparts flavor, but the star of the show is the aromatic, creamy tomato gravy. Dried fenugreek is optional, but if you can find it, it adds a special nuance to this famous dish. Warm naan bread on the side is perfect for mopping up all the luxurious sauce. —April Preisler, Auburn, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 497 calories, 35g fat (16g saturated fat), 159mg cholesterol, 1146mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 32g protein.
Chicken tikka masala may get more attention, but I think butter chicken is the original classic. It has a similar yet distinct sauce that makes it shine. The chicken becomes ultra-tender after a brief rest in a garam masala-spiked yogurt marinade. Then, the sauce is made by sautéing thin slices of onions in a generous amount of ghee until they are caramelized, creating a deep, nutty flavor. It is the ultimate comfort food, especially when paired with garlic naan.
2/41
Chicken Samosas
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
40 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This chicken samosa recipe is best served with a yogurt dipping sauce or chutney (like coriander and mint, tamarind or sweet mango). —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 samosa: 325 calories, 21g fat (2g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 240mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.
The dough and filling for these crunchy, satisfying chicken samosas can be made ahead of time, so you can assemble them quickly before your guests arrive. We like to prepare a variety of dipping sauces, including mint chutney and a cilantro yogurt sauce.
3/41
Malai Kofta
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
55 min
Servings
20 kofta (4 cups gravy)
From the Recipe Creator:
Learn how to make malai kofta! This popular Indian recipe consists of delicious potato and cheese balls in a velvety tomato-based curry sauce. The air fryer lightens up the traditionally deep-fried dumplings, while the pressure cooker makes putting together the curry sauce effortless. —Soniya Saluja, The Belly Rules the Mind
Nutrition Facts:
4 kofta with about 3/4 cup gravy: 442 calories, 26g fat (13g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 386mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 4g fiber), 16g protein.
Malai kofta is like a dynamic duo, with tender paneer and potatoes teaming up to create dumplings cloaked in a tomato-based sauce. While you’d typically see kofta deep-fried in most Indian kitchens, I love how this recipe makes smart use of an air fryer and a pressure cooker. Our malai kofta’s memorable, melt-in-your-mouth texture will surely have you coming back for seconds.
4/41
Chickpea and Potato Curry
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
6 hours 25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I make chana masala, the classic Indian chickpea curry, in my slow cooker. First browning the onion, ginger and garlic really makes the sauce amazing. —Anjana Devasahayam, San Antonio, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups chickpea mixture: 240 calories, 6g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 767mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 9g fiber), 8g protein.
This chickpea and potato curry is similar to chana masala, a classic Indian curry starring chickpeas in a rich tomato sauce. This version uses pantry staples and a slow cooker to develop an incredible depth of flavor.
5/41
Chicken Tikka
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
40 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Chicken tikka skewers make an easy and delectable party food. Though this recipe is mild, you can dial up the spice by increasing the amount of chili powder. —Aleni Salcedo, East Elmhurst, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 skewer: 163 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 378mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein.
If you need a flavorful recipe that’s also a breeze to make, these oven-baked chicken tikka skewers are it. They are great for dinner but also make an impressive hand-held appetizer for your next get-together. Don’t have skewers? Cook the chicken on a sheet pan instead. Not a fan of chicken? No problem—swap in lamb, beef or paneer.
6/41
Garam Masala
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
15 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
If you’re looking for an easy and authentic garam masala recipe, I’ve got you covered. This spice blend—typically made with about 10 different ingredients—comes together in just a few minutes. It is sure to bring out the best aromas and flavors in your Indian-inspired dishes. —Anvita Mistry, Erlangen, Germany
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 30 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 4mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein.
There’s something magical about homemade spice blends, especially one as iconic as garam masala. India is home to countless spice combinations, but garam masala stands out as a staple. Made with warm, smoky spices like cumin, cardamom, cinnamon and peppercorns, this blend infuses Indian cooking with intense, unforgettable flavor. It’s great for dishes like butter chicken, cauliflower tikka masala or biryani.
7/41
Golden Milk
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
15 min
Servings
1 tea
From the Recipe Creator:
Turmeric doesn’t provide just a soothing, peppery flavor to a cup of tea. It also has many health benefits as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredient. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 tea: 74 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 58mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
One of our favorite ways to enjoy turmeric—and its health benefits—is in a creamy, sweet, hot beverage. You can make this with dairy or nondairy milk and control the sweetness level by adding more or less honey.
8/41
Tandoori Chicken
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
35 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
A hand-mixed spice rub makes ordinary chicken worthy of a special occasion. Plus, it takes a while to marinate, so you can do other things while the spicy yogurt sauce works its magic. —Dena Leigh, Oldsmar, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 310 calories, 20g fat (7g saturated fat), 96mg cholesterol, 548mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 25g protein.
The spiced yogurt marinade in this recipe transforms chicken thighs into a restaurant-worthy entree. Serve the chicken with naan or chapati and plenty of basmati rice.
9/41
Chapati
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
25 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My daughter and I prepare this Indian flatbread frequently. It is so fun to make and goes well with any spiced dish. We use the extras to make sandwich wraps. —Joyce McCarthy, Sussex, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 flatbread: 113 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 237mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 0.500 fat.
Mixing all-purpose and whole wheat flour helps chapati achieve a satisfying, chewy texture—making them the perfect accompaniment to dishes like dal or curry. Double the recipe so you can use the chapati for sandwich wraps the next day.
10/41
Chicken Korma
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
45 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Chicken korma is a spiced Indian dish. It's not spicy-hot, but it's very flavorful from ingredients like cloves and ginger. Serve it with rice to soak in all the sauce. —Jemima Madhavan, Lincoln, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 313 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 665mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat, 1-1/2 starch.
We love any ideas that switch up typical chicken breast recipes. This rich, deeply flavorful curry transforms the basic white meat into a showstopping dinner that’s perfect over rice. To up the heat, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or make your own curry powder using Kashmiri chili powder—it’s typically hotter than the mild chili powders found in U.S. grocery stores.
11/41
Curry Lentil Soup
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
35 min
Servings
8 servings (2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
This curry soup might be vegan, but it's still as creamy as ever. If you prefer a meatier bowl, toss some chicken and chicken broth into the recipe. —Kijan Zendi, San Diego, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 365 calories, 16g fat (16g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 493mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 7g fiber), 16g protein.
This lentil soup with coconut and curry powder is one of our favorite recipes to freeze and heat up on days when we don’t feel like cooking. Make sure to have broth on hand to splash in if the stew becomes too thick.
12/41
Mughlai Chicken
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I enjoy cooking for my family and try to incorporate healthy new foods into our menus. This authentic Indian dish is a favorite. —Aruna Kancharla, Bentonville, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 367 calories, 23g fat (10g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 93mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein.
The food processor is your best friend when making this beautifully spiced dish. Blending cardamom with garlic, cloves, ginger, almonds, cashews and cinnamon makes the perfect sauce for chicken and serves as a wonderful introduction to Indian spices and herbs.
13/41
Samosas
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
35 min
Servings
1 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
This samosa recipe is one of my family’s absolute favorites. These crispy dough pockets are stuffed with potatoes and peas, then air-fried to give them a healthier twist. They’d make a perfect starter, side dish or buffet food for your next party. —Soniya Saluja, The Belly Rules the Mind
Nutrition Facts:
1 samosa: 280 calories, 14g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 203mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein.
You can make these savory fried pastries ahead of time by assembling the samosas and freezing them (uncooked) in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, cook them from frozen in the air fryer, adjusting the cooking time as needed to ensure they heat through.
14/41
Mulligatawny Soup
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
35 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Mulligatawny soup is a comforting dish that marries both Indian and British ingredients, and it's sure to tantalize your taste buds. It's fragrant, creamy, mildly spicy and simply incredible. —Anvita Mistry, Erlangen, Germany
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 184 calories, 7g fat (5g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 571mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 6g fiber), 5g protein.
We can’t get enough of this hearty, healthy soup whenever there’s a chill in the air. Some mulligatawny soups are made with meat, but we keep ours vegetarian with rice and lentils.
15/41
Slow-Cooker Butter Chicken
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
3 hours 10 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I spent several years in Malaysia eating a variety of Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian food. This was one of my favorite dishes! There are many versions of butter chicken, but this is similar to the Middle Eastern version I had. —Shannon Copley, Upper Arlington, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 242 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 102mg cholesterol, 407mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 35g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 fat.
This no-fuss slow-cooker butter chicken is perfect for anyone who loves a creamy curry. This version of the classic gets most of its creaminess from coconut milk, and it’s even better the next day. For those who like freezing food for meal prep, butter chicken lasts up to three months in the freezer.
16/41
Mango Lassi
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
10 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Learn how to make a mango lassi, the perfect summer drink for any mango lover. A mango lassi is a sweet and refreshing treat that needs only six ingredients! —Namrata Telugu, Terre Haute, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 226 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 73mg sodium, 54g carbohydrate (48g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein.
Nothing is more refreshing than a sweet mango lassi—especially considering this popular beverage comes together in just 10 minutes. You can customize the yogurt drink by swapping in other fruit (like banana or pineapple) and upping the mint or cardamom.
17/41
Grilled Garlic Naan
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
10 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Indian food is my all-time favorite, and no meal is complete without some naan. I like to brush grilled or baked naan with lots of butter and garlic. I sometimes add a little chopped cilantro. —Jerry Gulley, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 flatbread: 134 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 286mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
Upgrade store-bought naan with garlic and butter to create the perfect savory bread for scooping up curry. Sprinkle the bread with chopped cilantro for a pop of color and brightness.
18/41
Madras Curried Eggs with Rice
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
35 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Whoever said that gourmet foods take ages to prepare did not know about this traditional Indian curried eggs dish, which my mother-in-law shared with me. Its meatless simplicity and all the accompaniments make it unique, delicious and unforgettable. —Judy Batson, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 464 calories, 24g fat (10g saturated fat), 403mg cholesterol, 236mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 17g protein.
You probably already have all the ingredients for this classic curried eggs dish, which is a protein-packed entree that you’ll want to make on repeat. Even better, it comes together in about 30 minutes. To turn it into a complete meal, serve it with long-grain rice.
19/41
Kulfi
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I grew up near Little India in California, and I loved the desserts from Indian sweets shops. One of the shops sold kulfi, a spiced and nutty frozen custard in cone molds. Here I use a shortcut method to make kulfi quickly and without any special equipment. The whole milk can be replaced with mango pulp for mango kulfi. —Justine Kmiecik, Crestview, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 446 calories, 27g fat (14g saturated fat), 72mg cholesterol, 266mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (41g sugars, 1g fiber), 11g protein.
One of our favorite Indian desserts is kulfi, a sweet frozen treat that’s similar to ice cream but doesn’t require an ice cream machine. Be generous with toppings like saffron, cardamom and pistachios.
20/41
Coconut Garlic Naan
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
2 hours 5 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love the airy, chewy inside and the crisp, salty exterior of this garlic naan recipe. Using ingredients like whole wheat flour and coconut oil creates a healthier (and even tastier) snack. You'll love this nutty bread smeared with garlic confit and sea salt. —Morgan Harrison, Astoria, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 232 calories, 13g fat (10g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 304mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
Smeared with garlic confit and salt, this fluffy homemade naan will impress everyone at your dinner table. It’s so good that you might want to double the recipe!
21/41
Chicken Tikka Masala
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
4 hours 40 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This Indian-style chicken tikka masala recipe has flavors that keep me coming back for more. It's a simple dish spiced with garam masala, cumin and gingerroot. —Jaclyn Bell, Logan, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups chicken mixture (calculated without rice): 381 calories, 19g fat (9g saturated fat), 118mg cholesterol, 864mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 33g protein.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts become incredibly tender and infused with bold flavors while slowly cooking in a blend of fresh ginger, garlic, tomato purée and an aromatic mix of spices. The slow-cooker method helps the chicken stay juicy while soaking up all the saucy goodness.
22/41
Tandoori-Style Chicken with Cucumber Melon Relish
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
35 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We all need a quick meal that's deliciously healthy. I marinate the chicken before I leave for work, and when I get home, I grill the chicken and make the relish. My husband loves the spicy flavor. To amp up the heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes. —Naylet LaRochelle, Miami, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving (calculated without almonds): 247 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 98mg cholesterol, 332mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 38g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1/2 starch.
The bright, sweet relish makes the perfect topping for these succulent chicken breasts, which get their flavor from a richly spiced yogurt marinade. For more great texture, sprinkle the dish with sliced almonds before serving.
23/41
Coconut-Ginger Chickpeas & Tomatoes
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is my go-to quick dish. When you add the tomatoes, you can also toss in some chopped green peppers (jalapenos, if you like heat) to make the meal even more colorful. —Mala Udayamurthy, San Jose, California
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup chickpea mixture with 3/4 cup rice: 402 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 590mg sodium, 65g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 10g fiber), 11g protein.
This delicious skillet dinner comes together in just 30 minutes and is one of our favorite uses for canned chickpeas. We like to serve this over nutty, hearty brown rice.
24/41
Chai Tea
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Perfect for cold nights, this masala chai tea recipe incorporates spices that make it so delicious, you'll want to drink it every day. —Kelly Pacowta, Danbury, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 92 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 49mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
Chai is traditionally made with Assam black tea, milk, sugar, and spices like cardamom, cinnamon and ginger. This recipe calls for 2% milk, but dairy-free alternatives (like coconut milk) can work well too. If you’re expecting company, prep the chai ahead of time and store it in an airtight jar in the refrigerator until you’re ready to heat and serve.
25/41
Cauliflower Tikka Masala
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm a vegetarian, and it can be challenging to find new recipes. This cauliflower tikka masala is my easy take on the original. —Garima Arora, Charlotte, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 312 calories, 22g fat (3g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 573mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 7g fiber), 8g protein.
This vegetarian Indian recipe is packed with aromatic spices that transform cauliflower into the star of the show (and you won’t miss the chicken, we promise). Don’t forget to sprinkle the dish with chopped cilantro before serving.
26/41
Vegan Butter Cauliflower
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
45 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I created this Indian butter cauliflower recipe for all the picky eaters in my family who love ethnic food. It's also vegan-friendly. —Mihaela Metaxa-Albu, London, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 349 calories, 27g fat (22g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 584mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 7g fiber), 8g protein.
You would never know this hearty, creamy main dish was vegan. Layers of flavor from coconut milk, tomato, garam masala and an array of other spices pack so much richness into the humble cauliflower.
27/41
Sheet-Pan Tandoori Chicken
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
45 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This tandoori chicken recipe is easy for weeknights since it bakes in one pan, but it is also special enough for guests. The best part? There isn’t much to clean up when dinner is over! —Anwar Khan, Iriving, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
2 chicken thighs with 1 cup sweet potatoes and 4 tomatoes: 589 calories, 27g fat (9g saturated fat), 186mg cholesterol, 187mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 6g fiber), 52g protein.
Cleanup could not be easier for this special-occasion chicken dish—it all comes together on a single sheet pan. The key to this recipe is marinating the chicken in the spiced yogurt for six to eight hours for maximum flavor and tenderness.
28/41
Easy Chana Masala
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love this quick and healthy Indian-inspired dish so much I always make sure to have the ingredients stocked in my pantry. It makes weeknight dinners feel a little more special. —Janeen Judah, Houston, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
0.750 cup garbanzo bean mixture with 3/4 cup rice: 359 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 616mg sodium, 64g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 9g fiber), 10g protein.
This quick, nutritious chickpea dish comes together in 30 minutes. Make sure to simmer the tomato mixture covered so it stays saucy. Serve the easy chana masala with rice, and top with yogurt and cilantro.
29/41
Slow-Cooker Coconut Curry Chicken
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
5 hours 20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I love this yummy dish! It’s a breeze to prepare in the slow cooker, and it tastes just like a meal you’d have at your favorite Indian or Thai restaurant. —Andi Kauffman, Beavercreek, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 371 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 265mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.
This rich, savory slow-cooker curry is easy to prepare and a fantastic use for the can of coconut milk in your pantry. Serve the chicken with rice and a side of garlicky naan to soak up all the flavorful sauce.
30/41
Indian Spiced Chickpea Wraps
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Raita, an Indian condiment made with yogurt, elevates this vegetarian dish to a satisfying gourmet wrap. If you're in the mood to experiment, substitute diced mango or cucumber for the pineapple and add fresh herbs like cilantro or mint. —Jennifer Beckman, Falls Church, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 wrap: 321 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 734mg sodium, 55g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 10g fiber), 13g protein.
These crunchy, spicy wraps pack a fantastic nutritional punch with lots of protein, whole grains, fruits and veggies. Feel free to customize the raita with your favorite herbs and spices.
31/41
Indian Ginger Potatoes
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This easy ginger potato dish is so flavorful. Make it even faster by cooking the potatoes ahead of time or using leftover potatoes. —Erin Kelkar, Norcross, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 201 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 301mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1-1/2 fat.
Potato lovers, this one’s for you! Onion, ginger and a few pantry spices transform the humble potato into a main dish. For extra heat, add chili flakes.
32/41
Mango Chutney Chicken Curry
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My father dreamed up this curry and chutney combination. Now my family cooks it on road trips—in rain and sun, in the mountains, even on the beach. Adjust the curry for taste and heat. —Dina Moreno, Seattle, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 320 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 558mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein.
This easy-to-prepare chicken curry should be a staple in every kitchen. The sweet-savory sauce comes together by mixing half-and-half, mango chutney, garlic and curry powder. We recommend doubling the recipe because everyone will probably want seconds.
33/41
Vegetable Samosas
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
about 3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
My family enjoys the wonderful Indian flavors in a traditional samosa. Baked instead of fried, this version has fewer calories but keeps all the classic tastes and textures we love. —Amy Siegel, Clifton, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 samosa: 79 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 136mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch.
These nontraditional samosas use packaged frozen phyllo dough to cut down on prep time and effort—but not on flavor. Baking these beauties instead of frying them also cuts down on oil.
34/41
Roasted Curried Chickpeas and Cauliflower
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
45 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When there’s not much time to cook, try roasting potatoes and cauliflower with chickpeas for a warm-you-up dinner. It's a filling meal on its own, but you can add chicken or tofu to the sheet pan if you'd like. —Pam Correll, Brockport, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 339 calories, 13g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 605mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 8g fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1 lean meat.
We love a good sheet-pan dinner, and this delicious, warming tray of curried chickpeas and cauliflower hits the spot. If you’d like extra protein, you can easily add chicken to the mix. Serve with your favorite rice and herbs.
35/41
Tandoori Chicken Thighs
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I spent time in India and love reminders of the vibrant culture, so this tandoori chicken makes me happy. Served with warmed naan bread and a cool tomato and cucumber salad, it's a whole meal. —Claire Elston, Spokane, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken thigh: 193 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 333mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
These crowd-pleasing grilled chicken thighs become juicy with flavor after marinating in a spiced yogurt sauce. A crunchy salad makes the perfect complement to this tender chicken dish.
36/41
Bread Machine Naan
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
1 hour 35 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Chewy yeast-raised flat bread is a snap to make in a bread machine. Serve naan with your favorite Indian dishes to soak up the curry and sauces. —Shannon Ventresca, Middleboro, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 naan: 363 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 42mg cholesterol, 502mg sodium, 64g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 14g protein.
Making naan is a breeze with your bread machine, which creates the perfect dough for a chewy, fluffy flatbread. These naan finish on a buttered skillet for maximum golden brown goodness.
37/41
Spiced Indian Rusks
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
14 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Indian cake rusks, or delicious soft cakes, use traditional warm spices. The cakes can have add-ins like fruit or nuts, but they can also be dipped in chocolate. This plain version is a favorite of my friends and family. —Mary Lou Timpson, Centennial Park, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 132 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 44mg cholesterol, 46mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
These twice-baked treats are made with cozy, warm spices like cardamom and cinnamon. Though typically made plain, rusks have endless possibilities for customization. Make them your own by adding your favorite nuts, dried fruits or even a few dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist. Their dry, crunchy texture makes them the perfect companion for dunking in a steamy cup of chai.
38/41
Pressure-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
40 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This Indian-style entree has wonderful flavors. The dish isn’t fancy and is simply spiced, but it’s also simply amazing. —Jaclyn Bell, Logan, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup chicken mixture: 279 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 84mg cholesterol, 856mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 fat.
This satisfying and simple pressure-cooker dinner channels all the wonderful flavors of Indian recipes without the need of a tandoori oven. After a short time in the pressure cooker, the chicken comes out incredibly tender and flavorful.
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Gulab Jamun
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
35 min
Servings
about 1-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
If there is one dessert that you can find at all Indian weddings, parties and festivals, it’s gulab jamun. Patience is key when making these deep-fried dough balls, but they're worth it. —Srividhya Gopalakrishnan, Hayward, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece with syrup: 113 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 32mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
Gulab jamun, which are golden-fried doughnut balls soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup infused with rose water and cardamom, are pure bliss in every bite. Made with a simple dough of milk powder, flour and ghee, this beloved dessert is enjoyable year-round. Whether served cold in summer or warm in winter, gulab jamun always shines bright, especially when topped with crushed pistachios and cheerful rose petals.
40/41
Beef Curry with Rice
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
5 hours
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Instead of going out to a restaurant, I created this beef curry recipe for us to enjoy at home using a chuck roast, spinach and spices. —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 343 calories, 20g fat (8g saturated fat), 106mg cholesterol, 707mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 33g protein.
Who needs to order takeout when you can make this hearty beef curry and rice at home? Pressure-cooked or simmered low and slow, the beef turns tender and perfectly soaks in all the aromatic warmth of cardamom, ginger and cumin. Spoon it over a fragrant canvas of basmati rice so every grain picks up a perfect balance of incredible flavor.
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Chicken Curry Soup
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
8 servings (2-1/2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
My German mother would occasionally cook dishes that were not traditional German recipes. One of my favorites was her curry chicken soup. I've added my own touches, such as the chickpeas, coconut milk and fresh cilantro. —Deanna Hindenach, Paw Paw, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 270 calories, 16g fat (10g saturated fat), 32mg cholesterol, 555mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 5g fiber), 16g protein.
This chicken curry soup recipe offers warmth and comfort. Creamy coconut milk swirls into chicken broth, catching the flavor of each ingredient. I also love the adaptability of this recipe: You can use whatever root vegetables are in season, whether it’s sweet potatoes, squash or turnips.
Indian Recipes FAQ
What is the best Indian food for beginners to make?
Indian food recipes may look as if they have a lot of ingredients, but the list is mainly packed with herbs and spices, so don’t let the length fool you. If you’re new to cooking Indian food, we recommend starting with easy recipes like chana masala and butter chicken (or kulfi, if you’re making dessert).
What are the most popular Indian recipes?
Butter chicken, chana masala, naan and chicken tikka masala have become staples in American kitchens, thanks to the growing interest in Indian cuisine. These popular Indian recipes offer a distinct blend of aromatic flavors and offer versatility with protein choices like chicken, paneer or beef.
How do you make paneer for homemade Indian recipes?
Making paneer for homemade Indian recipes is easier than you might think. You need only milk and an acid like lemon juice or vinegar. Start by boiling the milk, then add the acid to curdle it. Once curds form, strain them in a cheesecloth and squeeze out the liquid. After hanging the curds in a bundled and knotted cheesecloth for about 30 minutes, you’ll have chenna, or crumbly milk curds. Now press the chenna into a flat rectangle for a couple of hours, refrigerate and then cut into cubes.
Homemade paneer will stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or it can be frozen for up to three months.
