20 Indian Dishes You Can Make Without a Spice Grinder

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Potato Patties Filled With Greens (Hara Bhara Kabab)

Hara Bara Kabab is a flavorful and vibrant Indian appetizer that brings together a colorful mix of greens like spinach, peas, and herbs, all blended into soft, spiced patties. These kababs are pan-fried until crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a delicious contrast in texture. Packed with wholesome, nutritious ingredients, they make for a hearty vegetarian option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether served as an appetizing starter at a dinner party, a comforting teatime snack with masala chai, or even as a light main course, Hara Bara Kabab adds a burst of flavor and nourishment to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Potato Patties Filled With Greens (Hara Bhara Kabab)

Chicken Korma

Chicken korma is a luxurious and comforting Indian dish that's often reserved for special occasions, but easy enough to enjoy anytime. This beloved recipe features juicy, tender pieces of chicken slowly simmered in a silky sauce made from creamy yogurt, savory broth, and a fragrant blend of warming spices like cardamom, cumin, and coriander. The result is a beautifully balanced curry—rich, mildly spiced, and incredibly flavorful with a texture that melts in your mouth. It's the kind of meal that feels both indulgent and soul-soothing. Paired with fluffy basmati rice or pillowy naan, chicken korma transforms any dinner into something truly memorable.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Korma

Tandoori Chicken Wings

These air fryer tandoori chicken wings offer a bold and flavorful twist that’s sure to shake up the usual wing routine. Coated in a vibrant blend of Indian spices, each wing is bursting with rich, smoky flavor that sets them apart from the typical barbecue or buffalo options. Perfect for parties, game day spreads, or even a fun weeknight dinner, these wings are juicy, tender, and guaranteed to impress anyone who takes a bite. And since they’re cooked in the air fryer, they deliver all the crispiness and satisfaction of traditional wings—without the extra oil or guilt. It’s a deliciously easy way to enjoy something different while still keeping things quick and wholesome.
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Onion Bhaji

This Onion Bhaji recipe delivers everything you could want in a homemade Indian appetizer—crispy edges, tender onion strands, and bold, warming spices in every bite. These golden-brown fritters are not only bursting with flavor, but they’re also naturally vegan and gluten-free, making them a crowd-pleaser for a variety of dietary needs. Whether served as a starter before a hearty curry or as a crunchy snack with drinks, these onion bhajis never disappoint. Best of all, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up at home, with no special ingredients required. Pair them with your favorite chutney or a cooling yogurt dip, and you've got a snack that rivals your favorite takeaway.
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Masoor Dal (Red Lentil Dal)

Masoor dal, often referred to as red lentil dal, is a comforting and nourishing dish that’s as flavorful as it is nutritious. Packed with plant-based protein, it offers a hearty and satisfying option for those seeking a vegan and gluten-free meal. This simple yet boldly seasoned dish comes together easily, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home. It can be served as a main course or as a flavorful side alongside other Indian favorites. Paired with fluffy rice or warm naan, masoor dal becomes a wholesome, well-rounded meal that feels both grounding and indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Masoor Dal (Red Lentil Dal)

Smoked Butter Chicken Thighs

This unique recipe puts a creative spin on classic butter chicken by bringing it to the grill, where the smoky char adds an irresistible depth of flavor. Instead of simmering the chicken in sauce alone, it’s first grilled to perfection, infusing each bite with that distinct outdoor BBQ aroma. The dish still holds on to the rich, creamy tomato-based sauce that defines butter chicken, but now with an added layer of complexity. It’s a perfect choice for anyone who loves bold Indian spices and enjoys experimenting with different cooking methods. Ideal for summer evenings or backyard gatherings, this fusion dish delivers comfort and flair in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Butter Chicken Thighs

Indian Steak Kabobs

These Indian steak kabobs offer a bold and aromatic twist on a classic steak and potato dinner. The steak is marinated in a rich blend of warm spices and diced onions, which infuse every bite with deep, layered flavor. A creamy Greek yogurt dip adds a cool, tangy contrast that perfectly balances the heat of the spices. Grilled to juicy perfection, the kabobs come out tender and mouthwatering, making them a memorable addition to any dinner table. It’s a satisfying meal that brings together comfort food and global flair in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Indian Steak Kabobs

Sweet & Spicy Indian Chicken

This sweet and spicy Indian-inspired chicken brings bold, mouthwatering flavor to the table with every bite. The chicken is first marinated in a rich blend of creamy yogurt and aromatic spices, allowing it to soak up all those deep, warming flavors. Once cooked to juicy perfection, it’s finished with a glossy maple syrup glaze that adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance the heat. The result is a sticky, flavorful dish that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a weeknight favorite—and one you’ll find yourself craving again and again.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Spicy Indian Chicken

Indian Scrambled Eggs

Start your day with a bold and flavorful twist by serving up these savory Indian Scrambled Eggs. This vibrant dish combines fluffy scrambled eggs with a medley of fresh onions, green chilies, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant cilantro, all brought to life with warm spices like cumin and turmeric. It’s a hearty and comforting breakfast that packs just the right amount of heat and zest. Whether paired with crispy toast or soft, warm roti, this recipe offers a delicious way to break from the ordinary. Perfect for anyone craving something both nourishing and exciting in the morning.
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Easy Chicken Madras Curry

When the temperatures drop and you’re craving something comforting, a homemade chicken madras curry is just the thing to hit the spot. This easy-to-make dish features tender chicken simmered in a bold, spicy sauce infused with warming Indian spices that bring both heat and depth of flavor. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with rich, aromatic scents and wraps you in warmth from the inside out. Perfect for chilly evenings, this curry delivers just the right amount of kick to awaken the senses and satisfy the appetite. Serve it with fluffy rice or warm naan for a cozy and deeply satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Madras Curry

Indian-style Okra curry recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy)

This Indian-style Bhindi Masala Gravy, also known as Okra Curry, is a comforting dish that brings together fresh okra, sautéed onions, and ripe tomatoes in a richly spiced, earthy gravy. It’s a flavorful yet approachable recipe, offering just a hint of gentle heat that doesn't overpower the natural taste of the vegetables. What sets it apart is its slime-free texture, achieved through careful stir-frying, which makes it especially enjoyable even for those hesitant about okra. The warm aroma of the spices fills the kitchen as it simmers, making it an inviting option for a cozy, home-cooked meal. Perfect with rice or flatbreads, this dish is a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Indian-style Okra curry recipe (Bhindi Masala Gravy)

Indian Frankies

Frankies are a beloved street food staple in India, celebrated for their bold flavors and satisfying textures. This classic potato version is a true comfort food, featuring a soft and flaky paratha wrapped around a warm, hearty filling of spiced mashed potatoes and tender green peas. Each bite bursts with flavor, thanks to a vibrant layer of tangy cilantro-mint chutney and a refreshing crunch of red onions tossed with zesty lemon juice and chaat masala. The result is a deliciously balanced roll that’s spicy, tangy, savory, and utterly addictive. It’s the kind of handheld meal that’s both deeply satisfying and packed with personality.
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Chicken Kathi Rolls

Chicken kathi rolls are a beloved staple of Indian street food, known for their bold flavors and satisfying, handheld appeal. In this dish, juicy chicken thigh pieces are marinated in a creamy blend of yogurt and aromatic spices, then pan-seared to perfection for a smoky, tender bite. The flavorful chicken is wrapped in a warm, soft roti that’s both chewy and slightly crisp, creating the perfect vessel for all the delicious fillings. Each roll is finished with a generous spoonful of savory chutney, a sprinkle of tangy seasoned red onions, and a handful of fresh herbs for a burst of brightness in every bite. It’s a comforting yet exciting meal that brings together spice, texture, and freshness in every mouthful.
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Easy Childa Recipe

This easy childa recipe uses gram flour, also known as chickpea flour, to create a wholesome and satisfying dish. Childa are savory Indian pancakes or crepes made by blending chickpea flour with a flavorful mix of herbs, spices, and sometimes vegetables for extra texture and taste. They’re incredibly simple to prepare and cook quickly on a hot griddle, making them perfect for breakfast, a light lunch, or even a snack. Naturally gluten-free and vegan, they offer a nourishing, protein-rich option that fits a variety of dietary needs. Whether served plain or with chutney, each bite brings warmth and comfort rooted in traditional Indian flavors.
Get the Recipe: Easy Childa Recipe

Instant Pot Indian Butter Chicken

This Instant Pot Indian Butter Chicken is a deeply flavorful and comforting dish that brings restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen with minimal effort. Made in an electric pressure cooker, it transforms tender pieces of chicken into a rich, creamy curry infused with warm spices and just the right amount of heat. It's the kind of cozy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t have hours to cook. Served over a bed of fluffy rice or with soft, warm naan, it’s a complete dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite. Even picky eaters will find something to love in every buttery, spiced bite.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Indian Butter Chicken

Aloo Gobi Masala

This aloo gobi masala recipe offers a comforting and flavorful spin on a beloved Indian classic. Featuring tender potatoes and cauliflower florets, it’s simmered in a rich, curry-style sauce that's infused with warm spices like turmeric, cumin, and garam masala. Each bite delivers a satisfying mix of earthy vegetables and bold, aromatic seasoning that fills the kitchen with an irresistible fragrance. Whether served as a hearty vegetarian side or a light main dish, this aloo gobi masala is sure to become a favorite for anyone craving a taste of traditional Indian flavors with a homemade touch.
Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken tikka masala is a beloved Indian classic that delivers bold, comforting flavors in every bite. In this Instant Pot version, the dish becomes surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or whenever a craving hits. Tender chunks of marinated chicken are pressure-cooked to perfection in a warmly spiced tomato-based sauce, then finished with a swirl of cream that adds a rich, velvety texture. The result is a deeply satisfying curry that tastes like it came from your favorite Indian restaurant. Paired with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress and quickly become a go-to favorite.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Sandwiches

These chicken tikka sandwiches offer a bold and comforting twist on the classic Indian favorite, transforming the beloved dish into an irresistible handheld meal. Juicy chicken is slow-cooked to tender perfection in a rich, creamy tomato sauce, deeply infused with aromatic Indian spices. Once layered onto soft, lightly toasted naan bread, the flavorful chicken is topped with gooey melted mozzarella, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a cool, zesty garlic-ginger yogurt sauce that ties everything together. Each bite delivers a delicious balance of warmth, spice, and creaminess, making it a deeply satisfying fusion of East-meets-West flavors. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this sandwich brings the cozy, bold taste of chicken tikka to a whole new level.
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Chicken and Lamb Biryani

Biryani is a rich and aromatic rice dish that holds a cherished place in the culinary traditions of the Indian subcontinent. It is typically made by layering long-grain basmati rice with tender cuts of meat—such as chicken, lamb, or goat—and slow-cooking it with a vibrant medley of spices like cumin, cinnamon, cloves, and saffron. The result is a deeply flavorful and fragrant meal that’s as comforting as it is celebratory. What makes biryani truly special is the way it varies from region to region, with each version reflecting local ingredients, cooking methods, and cultural influences. Whether it’s the spicy Hyderabadi biryani or the subtly sweet Kolkata version, this dish offers a delicious glimpse into the diversity of South Asian cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Lamb Biryani

Paneer Curry

This paneer curry recipe is a comforting blend of flavors inspired by classic Indian favorites such as paneer makhani, kadai paneer, tikka masala, and butter masala. It offers a rich, creamy, and mildly spiced sauce that beautifully coats tender chunks of paneer, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and approachable. Despite its complex flavors, the recipe is surprisingly simple to make and relies on common pantry staples that are easy to find in most grocery stores. Whether served with warm naan or a bowl of fluffy basmati rice, this vegetarian curry makes for a quick, satisfying meal that brings the taste of homemade Indian cooking to your kitchen without the fuss. It’s the perfect option for busy weeknights or when the craving for something hearty and flavorful strikes.
Get the Recipe: Paneer Curry