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Delicious and Easy Indian Vegetarian Recipes for Every Occasion

Indian cuisine is known for its rich variety of spices, flavors, and vibrant vegetarian dishes that suit every occasion. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, hosting a potluck, or looking for a quick snack, Manjula’s Kitchen offers a wide array of Indian vegetarian recipes that are both healthy and delicious.

Here’s a selection of recipes from Manjula’s Kitchen to try out at home:

1. Vegetable Biryani

Vegetable Biryani is a fragrant rice dish cooked with vegetables, aromatic spices, and herbs. This one-pot meal is perfect for family dinners or gatherings and pairs well with yogurt or raita for a complete meal.

2. Paneer Tikka

Paneer Tikka is a popular grilled dish made with marinated paneer cubes cooked to perfection. The smoky flavor of this appetizer makes it a hit at parties and potlucks. Serve it with mint chutney for a burst of flavor.

3. Aloo Gobi

Aloo Gobi is a simple yet delicious combination of potatoes and cauliflower, cooked with cumin, turmeric, and coriander. It’s a quick and easy dish that pairs well with chapati or paratha.

4. Chana Masala

Chana Masala is a flavorful chickpea curry made with tomatoes, and a blend of spices. This protein-packed dish is perfect for serving with basmati rice or puris, making it a wholesome meal for any time of the day.

5. Dal Tadka

Dal Tadka is a staple in Indian households, made with yellow lentils and flavored with a tempering of cumin, garlic, and red chili. It’s a comforting and protein-rich dish served with rice or chapati.

6. Vegetable Pulao

Vegetable Pulao is a quick and easy rice dish made with mixed vegetables and fragrant spices. It’s a versatile meal that can be served on its own or alongside curries, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

7. Samosa

Samosas are crispy pastry pockets filled with a spicy potato mixture. These popular Indian snacks are perfect for potlucks, parties, or family gatherings. Serve with tamarind or mint chutney for a complete snack experience.

8. Palak Paneer

Palak Paneer is a creamy spinach-based dish with cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese). This healthy and flavorful recipe is rich in iron and perfect for pairing with naan or chapati.

9. Baingan Bharta

Baingan Bharta is a smoky, mashed eggplant dish cooked with tomatoes and spices. It’s a flavorful and healthy dish that goes well with Indian flatbreads like roti or paratha.

10. Kheer (Rice Pudding)

Kheer is a traditional Indian dessert made from rice, milk, and sugar, flavored with cardamom and saffron. This sweet treat is perfect for festivals or as a delightful end to any meal.

11. Pav Bhaji

Pav Bhaji is a popular street food dish made with mashed vegetables cooked in spices and served with buttered buns (pav). It’s a flavorful and hearty meal that’s perfect for potlucks or family dinners.

12. Dhokla

Dhokla is a steamed savory cake made from fermented chickpea batter. It’s light, fluffy, and tangy, making it an excellent appetizer or snack. Serve with green chutney for a refreshing side.

13. Rajma (Kidney Beans Curry)

Rajma is a hearty kidney bean curry simmered in a flavorful tomato gravy. This protein-packed dish is perfect for family meals and pairs beautifully with rice or naan.

14. Masoor Dal

Masoor Dal is a simple and nutritious red lentil curry that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. It’s a great source of protein and goes well with both rice and roti.

15. Rava Idli

Rava Idli is a steamed semolina cake, perfect for breakfast or a light dinner. It’s quick to prepare and can be served with coconut chutney and sambar for an authentic South Indian meal.

Conclusion

Whether you’re planning a special dinner, preparing for a potluck, or simply looking for a quick and healthy meal, these Indian vegetarian recipes from Manjula’s Kitchen will add flavor and variety to your meals. Each recipe is easy to follow, packed with rich Indian flavors, and perfect for vegetarians and vegans alike.

For more recipes and inspiration, visit Manjula’s Kitchen and explore the delicious world of Indian vegetarian cooking!

  • Banana Salad

    Banana Salad

    Recipe submitted by Bhawna Bagri

    Banana Salad

    Banana Salad

    This delightful banana salad should be prepared be just before serving. Otherwise, the bananas will begin to brown. I usually prepare this salad on my Monday fasting. Its a quick and easy recipe
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    Course Salad
    Cuisine Indian

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 cups Curd
    • 2 Banana ripe and cut it into slices
    • 2 Green chili- finely chopped
    • 1/4 tsp Red chili powder-
    • 1/2 tbsp Sugar- or to taste
    • Salt to taste
    • Coriander leaves- chopped for garnishing

    Instructions
     

    • Put the curd in a mixing bowl and beat until smooth.
    • Add sugar,chilies and coriander leaves and stir well with a spoon.
    • Add the banana and salt and mix it again and serve immediately.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
  • Eggless Chocolate Cake

    Eggless Chocolate Cake

    Eggless Chocolate Cake

    Eggless Chocolate Cake

    This is a great recipe of delicious dessert, moist and eggless cake to satisfy your chocolate cravings and sweet tooth. Adults and kids alike will be delighted with this yummy cake. A cake that is like a sweet snack in every bite and is kids favorite for having chocolate in it.
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    Course Dessert
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 16 pieces

    Ingredients
      

    • 1-1/2 cup all purpose flour (plain flour, maida)
    • 2 tablespoons corn starch, or arrowroot
    • 1/4 cup coco powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup silky tofu ( soft tofu will also work)
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
    • 1 cup sugar
    • 1 tablespoon vanilla essence
    • 1 tablespoon vinegar, I am using rice vinegar
    • Approx. 1/3 cup milk

    For Chocolate Ganache

    • 1/2 cup chocolate chips, semi-sweet
    • 1/3 cup heavy cream
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla essence

    Instructions
     

    For Ganache

    • Place chocolate in a bowl and add the vanilla essence. Bring the heavy cream to boil and turn off the heat. Pour the cream over chocolate and stir until chocolate completely dissolve and become glossy. As ganache cool it will become thick.

    For Cake

    • Preheat the oven at 350 degree F
    • Grease 8×8 inches cake pan. Set aside.
    • All the dry ingredients except sugar, sift together flour, corn starch, coco powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt, three times to make sure all the ingredients are well mixed. Set aside.
    • With the electric mixer on low speed mix the butter, sugar, vinegar and vanilla until it is smooth this should take about two minutes. Add the tofu to butter mixture and mix on low speed for about two minutes. This will have a curdle kind of texture.
    • Slowly add the dry mix, mix with spatula all the ingredients should be mixed well. Add milk as needed, batter should be of thick consistency but pourable.
    • Pour the mixture into a greased baking pan evenly. Place the pan on middle oven rack and bake it for 35 minutes or until knife inserted in centre comes out clean.
    • Allow cake to cool for about 15 minutes in pan and then run a butter knife around the edges of cake. Place a wire cooling rack over top of pan. Use both hands to hold the rack in place while flipping the cake over onto the rack. Set the rack down and gently tap on the bottom of pan until the cake is released. Cool completely before slicing the cake.
    • Pour the ganache over the cake or individual cake pieces.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
  • Dabeli Spicy Potato Sandwich

    Dabeli Spicy Potato Sandwich

    Dabeli Spicy Potato Sandwich

    Dabeli Spicy Potato Sandwich

    Dabeli is a popular snack on the go, with street vendor in Mumbai. Pav (small burger buns) filled with spicy potatoes and topped with peanuts, chutney, fine sev and pomegranate. Enjoy this delicious sandwich;
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    Course sandwich
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 4 people

    Ingredients
      

    Spice Mix

    • 1 red chili dry
    • 1 teaspoon coriander (dhania) seeds
    • 2 cloves (laung / lavang)
    • 1/2 inch cinnamon (dalchini)
    • 1/2 teaspoon cumin (jeera) seeds
    • 4 black pepper

    Filling

    • 1 cup potato boiled and mashed (aloo)
    • 2 tablespoons oil
    • 1/2 teaspoon cumin (jeera) seeds
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • Spice mix which we prepared that should be about 1 tablespoon
    • 1 tablespoon tamarind paste (imli)
    • 3 teaspoons sugar
    • 1/2 cup water

    Also Need

    • 4 buns
    • 2 tablespoons butter for cooking

    To Serve

    • 1/4 cup roasted and crushed peanuts
    • 1/4 cup fine sev available in Indian grocery stores
    • 1/4 cup pomegranate (anar) seeds, if not available red or green grapes cut into small pieces
    • 3 tablespoons cilantro chutney (dhania chutney)

    Instructions
     

    • For Dabeli Masala: roast all the ingredients red chili, coriander, cloves, cumin seeds, cinnamon and black pepper, in a small pan on the medium heat for two minutes, spices will become very aromatic. Grind the spices to fine powder. This should make about one tablespoon.
    • For Filling: heat the oil in pan on medium heat moderately. Add cumin seeds when seeds crack add potatoes spice mix, salt and tamarind paste, mix it well.
    • Add about half cup of water mix it and bring to boil, cook on low heat for about two minutes. Mix should be consistency of thick paste. Set aside.

     How to Proceed

    • Slice the buns into halves and toast the buns over skillet on medium heat using little butter both sides.
    • Over one half of the bun put about ¼ cup of the filling, top it with chutney, pomegranate, peanuts and fine sev (you can find in Indian grocery stores), sandwich with the other half of the bun.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    Dabeli Recipe: A Spicy Potato Sandwich 

    Dabeli is a beloved Indian street food that tantalizes taste buds with its spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors. Originating from the state of Gujarat, dabeli has gained popularity across the country for its unique taste and satisfying texture. This dabeli recipe offers a delightful culinary journey, combining aromatic spices, creamy potatoes, crunchy peanuts, and a medley of chutneys sandwiched between soft buns. Let’s delve into the art of making this irresistible dabeli.

    Step 1: Making the Dabeli Masala 

    To begin, let’s prepare the dabeli masala. In a dry skillet over medium heat, roast the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, cloves, cinnamon stick, dried red chilies, fennel seeds, and peppercorns until fragrant. Allow the spices to cool, then grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. This aromatic dabeli masala forms the heart of the dabeli’s flavorful filling.

    Step 2: Preparing the Potato Filling 

    Next, let’s create the savory potato filling. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and add mustard seeds. Once the mustard seeds splutter. Now, incorporate the mashed potatoes into the pan along with the prepared dabeli masala. Mix well to ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with the spices. Drizzle in the tamarind chutney for a hint of tanginess and season with salt to taste. Allow the filling to cook for a few minutes until the flavors meld together beautifully.

    Step 3: Assembling the Dabeli 

    Now comes the exciting part – assembling the dabeli sandwiches! Slice the burger buns in half and lightly toast them with a smear of butter on a hot griddle until golden brown. Spread a generous layer of the prepared potato filling onto the bottom half of each bun. Sprinkle roasted peanuts, pomegranate seeds, and chopped coriander leaves on top for added crunch and freshness. Drizzle a little more tamarind chutney over the filling for an extra burst of flavor. Finally, cover the sandwiches with the remaining bun halves and press gently to secure the layers.

    Step 4: Serving and Enjoying 

    Once assembled, dabeli sandwiches are ready to be served and savored! For the authentic street food experience, garnish each sandwich with a generous sprinkle of sev – crispy chickpea flour noodles that add a delightful crunch. Serve dabeli sandwiches hot with extra chutneys on the side for dipping, if desired. These irresistible treats are perfect for picnics, parties, or simply as a satisfying snack any time of day.

    Variations and Tips: 

    • For a twist on the classic recipe, try substituting the potato filling with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or mixed vegetables for a vegetarian option.
    • Experiment with different types of chutneys, such as mint chutney or to customize the flavor profile according to your preference.
    • To make dabeli spicier, add chopped green chilies or a dash of chili powder to the potato filling.
    • For a richer taste, spread a layer of butter on the toasted buns before assembling the sandwiches.

    Benefits of Dabeli: 

    • Dabeli is a wholesome snack that provides energy and satisfies hunger cravings, making it ideal for a quick meal or on-the-go snack.
    • Potatoes, the main ingredient in dabeli, are a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients like vitamin C and potassium.
    • The combination of spices in dabeli masala not only enhances the flavor of the dish but also offers various health benefits, including aiding digestion and boosting metabolism.

    FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

    Q: Can I make dabeli masala in advance?

    A: Yes, you can prepare dabeli masala in large batches and store it in an airtight container for future use. This allows for quick and convenient assembly whenever the craving strikes.

    Q: Can I adjust the spice level of dabeli according to my taste preferences?

    A: Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of dabeli masala or add more/less chili powder to suit your preferred spice level. You can also control the heat by choosing mild or spicy chutneys.

    Other Recipes on Manjula’s Kitchen (H2)

    If you’re looking to explore more Indian recipes, appetizers, beverages, and desserts, be sure to check out the following links on Manjula’s Kitchen. Here are some links to recipes on Manjula’s Kitchen official website:

    Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe

    Chana Chaat (Spicy Chickpea Salad) Recipe

    Pav Bhaji (Spicy Vegetable Hash with Buns) Recipe

    Raj Kachori (Crunchy Chaat) Recipe

    Vegetable Biryani Recipe

    These recipes should offer you a flavorful experience straight from Manjula’s Kitchen.

  • Spinach Couscous Salad

    Spinach Couscous Salad

    Spinach Couscous Salad

    Spinach Couscous Salad

    There's nothing like a fresh salad. They are healthy and contrary to popular belief they can be quite filling and extremely satisfying! Spinach Couscous Salad is made with fresh spinach, arugula, couscous, sliced red grapes, cheese crumbles, pecans and my special house-dressing!
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    Course Salad
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 2 people

    Ingredients
      

    • 1/2 cup couscous
    • 1 tablespoon oil
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 2 cups spinach, steamed removed and roughly chopped
    • 2 cups arugula roughly chopped
    • 1/4 cup pecans roasted and roughly chopped
    • 1/2 cup seedless red grapes cut in half
    • 1/2 cup pear cut into bite size pieces
    • 3 tablespoons feta cheese crumbled
    • 2/3 cup water

    Dressing

    • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 2 teaspoons sugar
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
    • ½ teaspoon mustard (rai) powder
    • 1 teaspoon ginger juice*

    Instructions
     

    • For dressing: add all the dressing ingredients together mix it well making sure sugar is dissolved. Set aside. * To make ginger juice shred the ginger using fine shredder or zester, and squeeze the juice with fingers.
    • Boil the water in a saucepan over medium high heat with oil and salt. Add couscous mix it, cover the pan and turn off the heat. Couscous should be ready in about 5-6 minutes, fluff couscous with a fork. Set aside.
    • Toss spinach, arugula, couscous, pecans, and grapes together pour the dressing over and toss, sprinkle the feta cheese.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
  • Carrot Ginger Soup

    Carrot Ginger Soup

    Carrot Ginger Soup

    Carrot Ginger Soup

    Carrot and Ginger Soup is a light vegan, gluten-free and super healthy soup with the added benefit of tasting delicious. This soup is made with carrots, celery, ginger, and flavored with mild spices. Of course, this soup is also nutritious!
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    Course Soup
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 4 people

    Ingredients
      

    • 3 cups carrots peeled and sliced in small pieces
    • 1 cup celery sliced in small pieces
    • 1/3 cup ginger peeled and cut in small pieces
    • 2 tablespoons oil
    • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
    • 1/2 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
    • 1/8 teaspoon asafetida (hing)
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 2 teaspoons sugar
    • 2 teaspoon lemon juice
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

    Instructions
     

    • Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium high heat, Test the heat by adding one cumin seed to the oil; if the seed cracks right away, the oil is ready.
    • Reduce the heat to medium and add the cumin seeds, carom seeds, asafetida. As seeds crack, add carrots, celery, and ginger. Sauté for about 12 minutes until carrots are very soft.
    • Puree them in blender with 2 cup of water, on high speed. Add water as needed to puree.
    • Use the same pan and pour the soup salt and sugar, bring the soup to boil on medium high heat. Add more water if needed. When the soup boils, turn the heat to low and let it simmer for ten minutes.
    • Serve soup hot, Add the black pepper and lemon juice, in the bowl when ready to serve.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
  • Coconut Pretzel Sticks

    Coconut Pretzel Sticks

    Recipe submitted by Nibedita Das

    Coconut Pretzel Sticks

    Coconut Pretzel Sticks are a great crunchy snack with sweetness from the coconut and brown sugar. These are excellent for parties.
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    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine Indian

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 cup coconut flour (available at Sprouts or any specialty store)
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 2 tbs cooking oil for making dough
    • 2 tbs brown sugar
    • 1 tbs finely crushed dry rosemary
    • 1 tbs freshly squeezed ginger juice (grate a piece of ginger and then squeeze to extract juice)
    • 1 tbs rice flour
    • 1/2 tsp salt
    • 1/8 tsp baking soda
    • Approx. 1 1/2 cups water for making dough
    • 6 cups cooking oil for frying

    Instructions
     

    • In a large bowl, thoroughly combine coconut flour, all-purpose flour, salt, rice flour, brown sugar, baking soda, crushed rosemary, and 2 tbs oil.
    • Add ginger juice and water a little bit at a time to form a soft dough. Cover and allow dough to rest for 15 minutes.
    • Divided the dough into approximately 60 smaller portions. Roll the little portion of the dough with both hands on a flat surface to give it a shape of thin log like a pretzel stick.
    • Place a 10” stir-fry pan over high heat and wait until oil is heated. Reduce heat to medium and start frying a small batch of 5 or 6 pretzel sticks at a time until golden brown.
    • Allow to cool before enjoying!
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
  • Moong Dal Fingers

    Moong Dal Fingers

    Recipe submitted by Jyoti

    Moong Dal Fingers

    Moong Dal Fingers

    Moong Dal Fingers are a quick & easy to make delicious snacks. Crunchy on the outside and spicy on the inside, it is sure to be a hit with everyone!
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    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine Indian

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 Cup Split Skinless green gram Moong Dal
    • 1 Onion (chopped)
    • Ginger-green chilli paste (small piece of ginger and 2 green chillies)
    • 1 Tsp Lemon juice
    • 1 Tsp Chaat Masala
    • 1 Tsp Garam Masala Powder
    • 1 1/2 Cups Bread Crumbs
    • Coriander Leaves (few Sprigs chopped)
    • Salt – According  to taste
    • Oil for deep frying

    Instructions
     

    •  Soak Moong Dal in warm water overnight. Drain and set aside.
    • In a bowl, mix together soaked split green gram , onion, coriander leaves, salt,  garam masala powder, red chilli powder, chaat masala, ginger-green chilli paste and lemon juice.
    • Add the bread crumbs and mix well. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into fingers.
    • Heat sufficient oil in a kadai and deep fry the fingers in batches of three to four until crisp and golden.
    • Drain on absorbent paper and serve hot with tomato sauce or mint or coriander chutney.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
  • Roasted Chickpeas

    Roasted Chickpeas

    Recipe submitted by Maiah Miller

    Roasted Chickpeas

    Roasted Chickpeas

    Roasted Chickpeas is one of my favorite (and easy to make) snacks. This makes little snacks for 2-6 people.  They are very good and the spicy crunchy contrast is delicious. I am sure you will love it too!
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    Course Chaat
    Cuisine Indian

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 1/2 cups (or 1 can) chickpeas/garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
    • 1 1/2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
    • 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
    • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
    • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

    Instructions
     

    •  Preheat the oven to 425 Fahrenheit and grease a cookie sheet or line with foil.
    • Drain and rinse the chickpeas, removing as many of the skins as possible, or use chickpeas that have been soaked overnight.
    • Melt the coconut oil and toss the chickpeas with the oil and spices.
    • Spread onto the cookie sheet and bake for 15 minutes.  Stir the chickpeas and bake for another 12-16 minutes or until they are fully roasted and crunchy.
    • Remove and let cool before eating.  Once cooled, they can be store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

    Notes

    Olive oil can also be used if coconut oil is unavailable.  Enjoy!
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
  • Tomato Rice (Pulao)

    Tomato Rice (Pulao)

    Tomato Rice (Pulao)

    Tomato Rice (Pulao)

    Tomato rice or pulao has a South Indian flair as I have used sambar powder in this recipe. Samber powder is a spice mix used in many South Indian dishes. It has a spicy and tangy flavor. This flavor combined with tomato and rice taste great! This dish will also make a nice lunch box meal.
    5 from 1 vote
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    Course rice
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 3 people

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 cup rice
    • 3 tomatoes chopped, will make 1-1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
    • 3 tablespoons oil
    • 1/4 cup raw shelled peanuts
    • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
    • 1 green chili chopped
    • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
    • 3 teaspoons samber powder, available in Indian grocery store
    • 1-1/2 teaspoo n salt 
    • 1/4 cup cilantro (hara dhania) chopped
    • 2 cups of water

    Instructions
     

    • Wash and soak the rice in about 3 cups of water for at least 15 minutes. Drain the water and set aside.
    • Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium heat. When moderately hot, add mustard seeds.
    • When the seeds cracks add peanuts and stir fry for one minute until peanuts are lightly golden brown.
    • Add about 1 cup chopped tomatoes, green chili, turmeric, sambar powder, salt and cilantro, cook until tomatoes are tender. This should take about 2 minutes.
    • Add rice and 2 cups of water mix and bring it to boil, lower the heat to low and cover the pen. Let it cook for about 18-20 minutes. Cook until rice is soft and water has evaporated.
    • Stir the rice gently and add the remaining tomatoes stir gently, cover the pan and let it cook for 2 more minutes.
    • Serve rice by it self or with yogurt.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    Delicious Tomato Pulao Recipe: How to Make Tomato Pulao 

    Tomato pulao is a gluten free, flavorful, kid friendly and aromatic rice dish originating from Indian cuisine. It is made by cooking rice with a mixture of tomatoes, spices, and other ingredients. Typically, the dish begins by tempering mustard seeds and peanuts in hot oil, followed by adding chopped tomatoes, green chilies, turmeric, sambar powder, salt, and cilantro.

    1. Soaking Rice for Flavorful Tomato Rice Dish 

    Embark on the journey of making tomato pulao by ensuring that the rice is clean and ready for cooking. Begin by thoroughly washing the rice to remove any impurities, ensuring a clean and pristine base for your dish. Once washed, soak the rice in about 3 cups of water for at least 15 minutes. This crucial step helps to soften the rice grains, allowing them to cook evenly and absorb the rich flavors of the tomato pulao recipe. After soaking, drain the water and set the rice aside, eagerly awaiting its transformation into a delicious and aromatic dish of tomato pulao rice.

    1. Tempering Oil and Stir-Frying: Enhancing Flavor in Tomato Pulao Rice

    In a saucepan heated over medium heat, initiate the flavor infusion process by adding oil and mustard seeds. Allow the oil to heat up to a moderate temperature, then add the mustard seeds and let them crackle, releasing their aromatic essence. Once the mustard seeds crackle, introduce peanuts to the pan and stir-fry for about a minute until they turn lightly golden brown. This step adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the tomato pulao, elevating its overall taste and texture to new heights.

    1. Cooking Tomato Mixture: Infusing Flavors into Tomato Pulao Recipe 

    The heart of any tomato pulao recipe lies in its flavorful base. To create this base, add chopped tomatoes, green chili, turmeric, sambar powder, salt, and cilantro to the saucepan. Allow the mixture to cook until the tomatoes are tender, typically taking about 2 minutes. These flavorful ingredients work in harmony to infuse the rice with a burst of deliciousness, setting the stage for a mouthwatering tomato pulao experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

    1. Simmering Rice: Perfecting Tomato Rice Pulao 

    Once the tomato mixture has cooked to perfection, it’s time to introduce the star ingredient – the soaked and drained rice. Add the rice to the saucepan along with 2 cups of water, ensuring that everything is mixed well to distribute the flavors evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the rice simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until it becomes soft and the water has evaporated. After cooking, gently stir the rice and add the remaining tomatoes, incorporating them into the dish with care. Cover the pan once again and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes to ensure that all the flavors meld together perfectly, creating a harmonious symphony of taste and aroma.

    1. Serving Tomato Rice Pulao: Enjoying the Flavorful Rice Dish 

    With the tomato pulao cooked to perfection, it’s time to indulge in its flavorful goodness. Serve the dish by itself as a main course or pair it with yogurt for a satisfying and wholesome meal that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or as a side, tomato pulao is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors, aromatic spices, and irresistible appeal. So gather your loved ones, sit back, and savor every mouthful of this delightful and comforting tomato rice pulao.

    If you loved how to make tomato pulao recipe then you must also check out other variants of Rice: Vegetable Biryani, Masala Khichdi, Chhole Biryani, Quinoa Vegetable Pilaf and Lemon Rice.

  • Aloo Puri (Potatoes with Fried Puffed Bread)

    Aloo Puri (Potatoes with Fried Puffed Bread)

    Aloo Puri

    Aloo Puri (Potatoes with Fried Puffed Bread)

    Aloo Puri, spicy potatoes with gravy and puffed whole wheat bread (puri). It is simple and makes a complete meal. This is a popular combination in North India. This can be served for a casual breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
    5 from 1 vote
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    Course Bread
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 2 people

    Ingredients
      

    for Aloo (Potatoes with Gravy)

    • 3 medium-sized potatoes peeled and cubed in bite size, about 2 cups of cubed potato
    • 1-1/2 tablespoons oil
    • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
    • 1/8 teaspoon asafetida (hing)
    • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (haldi)
    • 1 teaspoon ginger chopped
    • 1 green chili chopped
    • 2 teaspoon coriander powder (dhania)
    • 1 teaspoon of fennel seed crushed
    • 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon mango powder (amchur)
    • 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
    • About 2 tablespoons cilantro (hara dhania) finely chopped

    for Puri

    • 1 cup whole wheat flour
    • 1 tablespoon sooji/semolina
    • 1/8 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • Approx. ½ cup water

     Also need oil to fry

    Instructions
     

    For Aloo

    • In a small bowl, mix the coriander, fennel, turmeric, chili powder, salt, ginger, and green chili with about 2 tablespoons of water. Set it aside. 
    • Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Test the heat by adding one cumin seed to the oil. If the cumin seed cracks right away, the oil is ready. Add cumin seeds, and asafetida, as cumin seeds crack add spice mix and stir fry for about 15 seconds
    • Add potatoes mixed with spices, lower the heat to low medium, cover the pan, and let it cook for about three to four minutes stirring once in between.
    • Add about 1-1/2 cups of water and change the heat to medium-high heat. As potatoes come to a boil cover the pan lower the heat to medium and let it cook for about eight minutes.
    • Mix the potatoes and mash some potatoes as mixing the potatoes, this will thickness to the gravy. Adjust the water in the gravy to your liking; gravy will thicken as it cools.
    • Add mango powder, garam masala and cilantro. Mix it well, turn off the heat, and cover the pan.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
  • Meethi Matri (Indian Sweet Cracker)

    Meethi Matri (Indian Sweet Cracker)

    Meethi Matri

    Meethi Matri (Indian Sweet Cracker)

    Meethi matries are delightful crispy and sweet snack made during festivals like Holi and Diwali. You can also serve them as biscuit or cookie. Fennel and cardamom gives very nice and sweet flavor to them.
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    Course Dessert
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 14 Meethi Matri

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 cup all purpose flour (maida, plain flour)
    • 1 tablespoon sooji (rava, semolina)
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds crushed
    • 2 tablespoon oil
    • Approx. 1/3 cup of lukewarm water
    • Oil to fry

    Syrup

    • 3/4 cup sugar
    • 1/4 cup water

    Garnish

    • 1/2 teaspoon crushed cardamom
    • 2 teaspoons pistachios crushed

    Instructions
     

    • Mix flour, sooji, salt, fennel seeds and oil in a bowl. Add water as needed to make soft dough. Don’t knead the dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth. Let it rest at least 15 minutes.
    • Divide the dough into 14 equal parts. Rolling the dough between your palms form into balls.
    • Roll the dough balls into three inch circles. Prick each matri with a fork 8-10 places on both sides. This will prevent matri not to puff when frying.
    • Heat at least one inch of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. To check if oil is ready put a little piece of dough in the oil. It should make oil lightly sizzle, if dough float instantly oil is too hot.
    • Fry a few matri at a time. Fry the matries until both sides are a light golden-brown. It should take six to eight minutes. If the matries are fried on high heat, they will not be cooked inside.
    • Take them out over paper towel so it can absorb the extra oil.
    • For syrup, in a sauce pan add water, and sugar over medium heat, bring it to a boil. Let it boil for about 2 minutes until syrup is sticky, on candy thermometer it should be 230 degree.
    • Dip the matri one at a time into the syrup making sure it is coated with syrup all around.
    • Place the matries on a wire rack to allow the extra syrup drain or over greased plate.
    • Garnish the matries with cardamom and sliced pistachios while the matries are still moist with syrup.
    • Matries will be dry in an hour.
    • Matries can be stored in airtight container up to a month.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
  • Batata Vada – Aloo Bonda (Fried Potato Dumpling)

    Batata Vada – Aloo Bonda (Fried Potato Dumpling)

    Batata Vada - Bhonda

    Batata Vada – Aloo Bonda (Fried Potato Dumpling)

    Batata Vada also known as aloo bonda, deep fried savory appetizer made with spicy potato mix. When they are serve hot they are crispy outside and soft inside. This is a very popular street food in Mumbai.
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    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 3 people

    Ingredients
      

    • 3 medium potatoes boiled peeled and roughly chopped (this will make 2 cups of chopped potatoes)
    • 1 tablespoon oil
    • 1/2 teaspoon black mustard seeds (rai)
    • 7-10 curry leaves chopped, optional
    • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (haldi)
    • 1 tablespoon finely chopped ginger
    • 1 green chili finely chopped adjust to taste
    • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (hara dhania)
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste

    For Batter

    • 1/2 cup besan, gram flour (available in Indian grocery stores)
    • 1 tablespoon rice flour
    • 1/8 teaspoon asafetida (hing)
    • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
    • About 1/4 cup of water
    • Oil to fry

    Instructions
     

    Batter

    • In a bowl mix besan, rice flour, salt, asafetida, pepper, and baking powder. Add water slowly to make a thick and smooth batter. Set aside.

    Vada

    • Heat oil in a frying pan on medium heat moderately.
    • Add mustard seeds as the seeds crack add curry leaves, (curry leaves splatters) potatoes, ginger, green chili, turmeric, and salt.
    • Stir fry for about 3 minutes over medium heat. Add cilantro mix it well. Turn of the heat.
    • Let the potato mix cool off, divide them into about 12 pieces and make them into smooth round ball, they will be little smaller then golf ball.
    • Heat about 1”of oil in a frying pan on medium high heat. To check if the oil is ready, put one drop of batter in oil. The batter should come up but not change color right away.
    • Dip the potato balls into the batter one at a time, making sure the potato balls are completely covered with batter. Then, slowly drop them into the frying pan.
    • Turn them occasionally. Fry the batata vadas until all sides are golden-brown.
    • Batata vadas will take about four minutes to cook.
    • Serve them hot with cilantro chutney.

    Notes

    Serve them with sandwich buns using cilantro chutney as spread. Now this is known as Vada pav, another famous street food in Mumbai.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    Batata Vada Recipe – An Authentic Indian Delight

    Aloo bonda, a popular Indian street food, is a delectable appetizer consisting of spiced mashed potato balls coated in chickpea flour batter and fried to crispy perfection.

    Introduction to Batata Vada and Aloo Bonda

    Batata Vada, also known as Aloo Bonda, is a popular Indian street food that originated in the state of Maharashtra. This delightful snack consists of spiced mashed potatoes coated in a gram flour batter and deep-fried until golden brown. Loved for its crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior, batata vada is a beloved snack enjoyed across the country. In this batata vada recipe, we will guide you through the process of making this delicious treat at home.

    How to Make Batata Vada – Step by Step Guide

    • Preparation of Potato Filling: To begin making batata vada, start by boiling potatoes until they are tender. Once boiled, peel and mash them in a bowl. Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Sauté until fragrant, then add mashed potatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and chopped coriander leaves. Mix well and cook for a few minutes. Let the filling cool down.
    •  
    • Making the Gram Flour Batter: In a separate bowl, prepare the gram flour batter by mixing gram flour, rice flour, baking soda, salt, and water. Ensure a smooth consistency without any lumps. Let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes.
    • Assembly of Batata Vada: Take a portion of the potato filling and shape it into small balls. Dip each ball into the prepared gram flour batter, ensuring it is evenly coated.
    •  
    • Deep Frying the Vadas: Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the coated potato balls into the oil and fry until they turn golden brown and crisp. Remove from oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
    •  
    • Serve Hot: Your crispy and delicious batata vada or aloo bonda is ready to be served. Enjoy them hot with green chutney or tamarind chutney.
    •  

    Tips for Perfect Batata Vada

    • Ensure that the potato filling is well-spiced to enhance the flavor of the batata vada.
    • Make sure the gram flour batter is of the right consistency; it should coat the potato filling evenly.
    • Fry the vadas in hot oil to achieve a crispy exterior.
    • Serve the vadas hot for the best taste and texture.

    Variations of Batata Vada

    • You can add crushed peanuts or cashews to the potato filling for added crunch.
    • For a spicy kick, add finely chopped green chilies to the potato mixture.
    • Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor according to your preference.

    Benefits of Batata Vada

    • Batata vada is a filling and satisfying snack that can be enjoyed any time of the day.
    • Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, making batata vada an excellent energy booster.
    • This snack is vegetarian and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Q: Can I make batata vada ahead of time?

    A: While batata vada is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the potato filling and gram flour batter in advance and fry the vadas just before serving for optimal crispiness.

    Q: Can I bake batata vada instead of deep-frying?

    A: While traditionally batata vada is deep-fried for that crispy texture, you can try baking them in the oven for a healthier alternative. However, the texture may vary slightly.

    Other Recipes on Manjula’s Kitchen

    If you’re looking to explore more Indian recipes, appetizers, beverages, and desserts, be sure to check out the following links on Manjula’s Kitchen. Here are some links to recipes on Manjula’s Kitchen official website:

    Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe

    Chana Chaat (Spicy Chickpea Salad) Recipe

    Pav Bhaji (Spicy Vegetable Hash with Buns) Recipe

    Raj Kachori (Crunchy Chaat) Recipe

    Vegetable Biryani Recipe

    These recipes should offer you a flavorful experience straight from Manjula’s Kitchen.

     

  • Baked Mini Samosa Pies

    Baked Mini Samosa Pies

    Recipe submitted by Yummily Yours’

    Baked Mini Samosa Pies

    Baked Mini Samosa Pies

    Baked Samosa Pies (actually more of mini pies) are wolves in a sheep’s clothing. Street food gone fancy! Or may be street food with a make-over.
    I made the dough at home but if you are short on time, check the “My Take” section for a shortcut that will save you 45 minutes. You can probably make them as appetizers for a party or as an evening snack with a cup of hot tea.
    I was quite skeptical about how this would turn out because I have never had a baked samosa before but to my pleasant surprise, they were great (and the calories you are not consuming because they are not deep-fried?!). I even had a few left overs which we later warmed up using a microwave, they tasted as fresh as ever.
    Like I was saying, these wolves are true samosas to their core with a stuffing of warm spiced boiled potatoes. I have adapted this recipe from Manjula’s Kitchen for the contest of Jan’14.
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    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine Indian

    Ingredients
      

    For the Samosa wrappers

    • 1 cup all-purpose flour/Maida (Makes around 8 pies)
    • 1 1/2 tablespoon sooji (semolina flour/cream of wheat)
    • 1/4 tsp baking soda
    • 1/2 tsp baking powder
    • 1/8 tsp celery seeds (ajwain)
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 3 tablespoons oil
    • 1/3 cup lukewarm water

    For the stuffing

    • 1 cup of boiled & mashed potatoes (Crudely mashed to leave chunks or dice them)
    • 1/4 cup green peas (fresh/frozen)
    • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
    • 2 green chilies finely chopped
    • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
    • Salt to taste
    • 2 tablespoons oil
    • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
    • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

    Instructions
     

    • Mix all the ingredients meant for the samosa wrappers using the lukewarm water(Add water in small quantities while mixing making sure it does not get soggy)
    • Knead the dough well. Finish off the kneading process using a drop of oil to get smooth-surfaced dough.
    • Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 15 minutes.
    • Heat the oil meant for the stuffing in a pan.
    • Add cumin seeds and allow them to crackle. Add the chopped green chilies and green peas.
    • Sauté for a min, add the coriander powder, garam masala and salt and mix well.
    • Add the boiled & mashed/diced potatoes. Mix with a light hand.
    • Turn off the heat; add the chopped cilantro and lemon juice and mix.
    • Add the potatoes and stir-fry for about 4 minutes. Stir in garam masala and amchur. Add more salt or amchur according to taste. Set aside.
    • Knead the dough for a minute.
    • Divide the dough into 2 parts (1 part 3/4 of the dough)
    • Divide the bigger portion of the dough into 8 equal portions. And roll them into rounds. Line the cups of a muffin pan with the freshly rolled rounds. Keep the pan covered with a damp cloth.
    • Take the smaller portion of the dough and again divide into 8 portions. Roll out smaller circles for covering the samosa wrapper cups.
    • Place stuffing into the samosa wrappers lined in the pan.
    • Brush the circumference of the small circles with water and paste them on top of the filled samosa wrapper cups.
    • Brush the tops with some oil and bake in a pre-heated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 15 min or until the samosa tops turn golden.
    • Allow them to cool on a wired rack for 2-3 min.
    • Enjoy hot with some hot sauce / Mint Chutney.

    Notes

    Additional Notes:
    • Super simple short-cut – use some cookie cutters and make samosa wrappers and covers out of store bought pie crusts!
    • Experiment with stuffing. Try some cauliflower and cheese or spinach & feta. Go wild!
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

  • Til Ka Ladoo – Sesame Candy

    Til Ka Ladoo – Sesame Candy

    Til Ka Ladoo

    Til Ka Ladoo – Sesame Candy

    Til ka ladoo is a traditional winter sweet. This is a simple recipe made with til and jaggery. Til is sesame seed and jaggery is unrefined cane sugar.
    You can also enjoy them as sesame candy. Til ka ladoos are also made on various festivals especially for Makar Sankranti and also like a regular sweet snack munchies.
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    Course Dessert
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 20 ladoos

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 cup sesame seeds, til
    • 1 cup jaggery or gur broken in small pieces, available at Indian grocery store
    • 3 tablespoons clarified butter, ghee
    • 1/2 teaspoon crushed cardamom
    • 1/2 cup water

    Instructions
     

    • Grease a plate and set aside.
    • In a frying pan roast the sesame seeds on medium heat stirring continuously. Sesame seeds will become light golden brown. This should take 4-5 minutes. Take the seeds out in a bowl. Set aside.
    • In the same frying pan heat the water and add the jaggery.
    • Simmer over medium heat till it starts caramelizing and forms a ball when you add a drop of syrup in cold water. This should take 4-5 minutes. Reduce the heat to low.
    • Add ghee, cardamom, and roasted sesame seeds mix it thoroughly with melted jaggery.
    • Transfer it in greased plate; take one tablespoon of mixture in your palm and make them into round ball, this should be half the size of golf balls.
    • Make all the ladoos while mix is still warm.
    • Sesame seed ladoo can be stored for months.

    Notes

    Variation:
    Til Ka Ladoo can be also made as burfi.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

  • Eggless Whole Wheat Coconut Cookies

    Eggless Whole Wheat Coconut Cookies

    Eggless Whole Wheat Coconut Cookies

    Eggless Whole Wheat Coconut Cookies

    These Whole Wheat Eggless Coconut Cookies are an absolute delight to have as a snack and goes best with a cup of afternoon tea or coffee. They are vegan, healthy and a better alternative to the regular cookies.
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    Course Snack
    Cuisine Indian

    Ingredients
      

    • 1/2 cup Wheat Flour
    • 1/4 cup Sugar
    • 1/4 cup Unsweetened Dessicated Coconut
    • 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter, softened
    • A pinch of Salt
    • 1/2 tsp Vanilla Essence
    • 1 tbsp Milk or as needed
    • 1.5 tbsp Unsweetened Dessicated Coconut for garnish

    Instructions
     

    • Grind the sugar into a fine powder and set aside.
    • Preheat the oven to 180 degree C.
    • In a mixing bowl, add the butter and powdered sugar and mix it until light and creamy.
    • Add the vanilla and salt and combine.
    • Now add the wheat flour and coconut to it and mix everything.
    • Then sprinkle the milk little by little over it and mix well to make smooth dough.
    • The dough should be very soft.
    • Divide the cookie dough into 10 – 12 round balls and flatten them with your palms to shape the cookies.
    • Dip the top side of the cookies into the coconut and place them on a baking tray spacing about 1 inch apart.
    • Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 18 minutes at 180 degree C.
    • Remove them from the oven and let them cool down for 2 – 3 minutes.
    • Place them on a wire rack and allow them to cool.
    • They will be soft when taken out, but will firm up once they cool.
    • Store in an airtight container.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!