Category: Vegetarian Recipes

Find Vegetarian Recipes: Exploring Indian Vegetarian Cuisine

Indian cuisine is a treasure trove of delicious and nutritious vegetarian recipes. Whether you’re looking for vegetarian recipes or explore a variety of Indian vegetarian recipes, Manjula’s Kitchen offers an extensive collection of dishes that cater to every taste. Let’s delve into some mouth-watering vegetarian Indian recipes that are both easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Why Find Vegetarian Recipes?

  1. Health Benefits: Vegetarian recipes are often lower in saturated fats and cholesterol while being high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
  2. Environmental Impact: Choosing vegetarian meals can reduce your carbon footprint, as plant-based foods typically require fewer resources than meat-based foods.
  3. Ethical Reasons: Many people choose vegetarianism for ethical reasons, preferring not to consume animal products.

Breakfast Recipes

Aloo Paratha

Aloo Paratha is a popular Indian breakfast made with whole wheat flatbread stuffed with spiced mashed potatoes. This dish is a classic example of Indian recipes vegetarian style. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for satisfying Indian breakfast ideas. Serve it with yogurt and pickle for a complete meal.

Upma

Upma is a savory semolina porridge cooked with vegetables and tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies. This dish is a staple in South Indian recipes and a fantastic option when you wants vegetarian recipes that are quick and nutritious. Upma is often enjoyed with a side of coconut chutney.

Lunch Recipes

Chole (Chickpea Curry)

Chole is a robust chickpea curry cooked in a rich tomato-based gravy with aromatic spices. This dish is a beloved part of Indian vegetarian recipes and is usually served with rice or bhature (deep-fried bread). It’s a hearty and comforting meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Paneer Butter Masala

Paneer Butter Masala is a rich and creamy curry made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a spiced tomato and cashew gravy. This dish is a favorite among vegetarian Indian recipes and pairs well with naan or jeera rice. The creamy texture and flavorful sauce make it a hit at any meal.

Dinner Recipes

Baingan Bharta

Baingan Bharta is a smoky and flavorful eggplant dish that is a must-try in vegetarian recipes in Indian cuisine. The eggplants are roasted until soft, then mashed and cooked with tomatoes, and spices. It’s a delicious and nutritious dish that pairs well with roti or rice.

Dal Makhani

Dal Makhani is a rich and creamy lentil dish made with black lentils and kidney beans simmered in a buttery tomato sauce. This dish is a staple in North Indian cuisine and a perfect example of Indian vegetarian recipes. It’s best enjoyed with naan or basmati rice for a complete meal.

Snack Recipes

Samosa

Samosa is a popular Indian snack consisting of a crispy pastry filled with spiced potatoes and peas. This snack is a favorite among those who want vegetarian recipes that are both delicious and easy to make. Samosas are typically served with tamarind or mint chutney.

Bhel Puri

Bhel Puri is a tangy and spicy snack made with puffed rice, vegetables, and tamarind sauce. This dish is a quintessential part of street food in India and a great addition to your collection of vegetarian Indian recipes. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for an evening snack.

Dessert Recipes

Gulab Jamun

Gulab Jamun are soft, deep-fried balls made from khoya (dried milk) soaked in a sweet syrup flavored with cardamom and rose water. This dessert is a beloved part of Indian recipes vegetarian and is often served during festivals and special occasions. The melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet flavor make it a favorite.

Kheer

Kheer is a creamy rice pudding flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts and raisins. This dessert is a classic in vegetarian recipes in Indian cuisine and is easy to prepare. Kheer is a perfect ending to any meal and is often enjoyed during celebrations.

Enhancing Your Vegetarian Menu

To enhance your vegetarian menu, consider exploring related categories that complement these vegetarian Indian recipes. Adding Indian snacks like samosas and bhel puri can provide a variety of flavors and textures. For a sweet ending, explore Indian desserts such as gulab jamun and kheer. Incorporating healthy recipes like upma and baingan bharta can offer lighter options for your meals. Hosting a large gathering? The popular party recipe category is filled with dishes that are sure to impress your guests and make your celebration memorable. Including North Indian recipes like chole or dal makhani can add a touch of authenticity to your meal.

Tips to Find Easy Vegetarian Recipes

  1. Online Recipe Sites: Websites like AllRecipes, Epicurious, and BBC Good Food offer a vast collection of vegetarian recipes. Use search filters to find easy vegetarian recipes that fit your time constraints and skill level.
  2. Cooking Apps: Apps like Tasty, Yummly, and Mealime can help you find the vegetarian recipes you need. These apps often provide step-by-step instructions and video tutorials.
  3. Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube are excellent resources to find vegetarian recipes in India. Follow vegetarian chefs and influencers for inspiration and new ideas.
  4. Cookbooks: Invest in a few good vegetarian cookbooks. Authors like Madhur Jaffrey and Meera Sodha offer fantastic collections of vegetarian recipes.
  5. Cooking Classes: Consider taking a vegetarian cooking class to learn new techniques and find easy vegetarian recipes that you can incorporate into your routine.

FAQs About Finding Vegetarian Recipes

Q: How can I find vegetarian recipes that my whole family will enjoy? 

A: Look for versatile and customizable recipes like build-your-own taco bowls, pasta dishes, and stir-fries. These can easily be adapted to suit different tastes.

Q: Are there any quick ways to find easy vegetarian recipes? 

A: Yes, use cooking apps, social media platforms, and online recipe databases. These resources often have filters for easy and quick recipes.

Q: Where can I find vegetarian recipes in India? 

A: To find vegetarian recipes in India, explore Indian cooking blogs, YouTube channels by Indian chefs, and cookbooks dedicated to Indian cuisine.

Q: Can I find vegetarian recipes that are also gluten-free? 

A: Absolutely. Many vegetarian recipes are naturally gluten-free. You can also look for specific gluten-free vegetarian recipes online or in specialized cookbooks.

Q: What are some good sources to find easy vegetarian recipes? 

A: Good sources include online recipe websites, vegetarian cookbooks, cooking apps, and social media platforms where chefs and home cooks share their recipes.

Conclusion

Embarking on a journey to find vegetarian recipes can be both exciting and rewarding. Whether you’re looking to find easy vegetarian recipes for a quick meal or seeking to vegetarian recipes India for an authentic culinary experience, there are endless possibilities to explore. 

Manjula’s Kitchen is one such brand which provides authentic reference point to all kinds of vegetarian recipes and providing alternatives to even dietary plans be it vegan, high protein, low carb or low calorie. We got all the healthy recipes across various platforms from Pinterest to YouTube to Instagram to Facebook. Manjula’s kitchen recipes are available in video and blogging format allowing every one enjoy its flavorful recipes. 

  • Urad Dal Puri (Bedmi Puri Kachori)

    Urad Dal Puri (Bedmi Puri Kachori)

    Urad Dal Puri Bedmi Kachori

    Urad Dal Puri (Bedmi Puri Kachori)

    Urad Dal Puri, also known as Bedmi Kachori, is a hearty dish of fried puffed bread with a mix of lentils and spices. Urad Dal Puri is a North Indian delicacy. Delicious and festive, it is an excellent option with any meal and sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
    5 from 1 vote
    Course Bread
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 8 puries.

    Ingredients
      

    Ingredients:

    • 1/4 cup urad dal (available in Indian grocery stores)
    • 1 cup whole wheat flour (roti atta)
    • 1 tablespoon fennel seed powder (Saunf)
    • 1 tablespoon coriander powder (dhania)
    • 1/8 teaspoon asafetida (hing)
    • 1/4 teaspoon dry ginger powder (sonth)
    • 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes adjust to taste
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 2 tablespoon oil 
    • Oil to fry

    Instructions
     

    Method

    • Wash and soak urad dal four hours or more. Drain the water. Blend dal coarsely into a thick paste, preferably in a food processor, using as little water as possible.
    • In a bowl mix all the spices. Add to the flour and mix well.
    • Add the dal paste (pithi) to the flour and form into a soft dough using lukewarm water as needed. Dough will be a little sticky. Grease your palm. Spread one teaspoon of oil over the dough and knead for one minute. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it sit half an hour or more.
    • Oil your palm and knead the dough again and divide into eight equal parts. Oil palm again and roll the eight parts into smooth balls. Set aside five minutes.
    • Oil the rolling pin and rolling surface. Roll the balls gently into 6” circles.
    • You can roll two or three puris before start frying, but do not roll all the puris at once or they will begin to dry out and fail to puff.
    • Heat at least one of oil in a frying pan over medium high heat. To test, place a small piece of dough in the oil. If the oil is hot enough, the dough will rise quickly to the top.
    • Fry one puri at a time. Place the puri in the frying pan and press with a skimmer. The puri should puff up. Turn puri over and cook until light golden brown on both sides. Take the puri out and place them on paper towels to absorb the excess oil. Repeat the process for remaining piries.
    • Urad dal puris are best served hot and crisp. Store in a covered container after they cool to room temperature.
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  • Methi Chutney (Fenugreek Chutney)

    Methi Chutney (Fenugreek Chutney)

    Methi (Fenugreek) Chutney

    Methi Chutney (Fenugreek Chutney)

    Methi Chutney is a popular North Indian condiment. Methi Chutney is packed with flavors, sourness from mango, sweetness from raisins; some bitterness from fenugreek, mixed with spices it has a very unique taste. Traditionally this is served with Kachories (fried puffed bread with lentils) and Puri (fried puffed bread).
    No ratings yet
    Course Chutney
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 6 people

    Ingredients
      

    Ingredients:

    • 2 tablespoons fenugreek seeds (methi), available in Indian grocery stores
    • 4 dry mango slice, available in Indian grocery stores
    • 1/4 cup   raisins (kishmish)
    • 4 dates sliced in fours length wise (kajoor)
    • 1/8 teaspoon asafetida (hing)
    • 1/4 teaspoon  turmeric (haldi)
    • 1/2 teaspoon  red chili powder (lal mirch) adjust to taste
    • 1 tablespoon  coriander coarsely ground (dhania)
    • 1 tablespoon  fennel seeds coarsely ground (saunf)
    • 1-1/2 tablespoon mango powder (amchoor)
    • 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
    • 1 tablespoon sugar adjust to taste
    • Approx. 1-1/2 cup water

    Instructions
     

    Method

    • Soak fenugreek seeds 6 hours or more. The seeds will swell to be about 3 times in volume. Drain the water.
    • In a pressure cooker add 1-1/2 cups of water and all the ingredients except sugar cook over medium high heat. After cooker start steaming lower the heat to medium and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes.
    • Open the pressure cooker after steamed has escaped, mix it well mash the mango slices.
    • Add the sugar, mix it well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Chutney should have consistency of thick gravy, if needed add little more water.
    • Methi chutney can be served warm or at room temperature.

    Notes

    Notes
    Methi Chutney can be refrigerated for about one month.
     
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  • Quinoa Vegetable Pilaf (Pulav)

    Quinoa Vegetable Pilaf (Pulav)

    Quinoa Vegetable Pilaf

    Quinoa Vegetable Pilaf (Pulav)

    Quinoa vegetable pilaf is a protein rich, gluten free and delicious dish. It is quick and easy to make. This can be served as a main dish or side dish.
    No ratings yet
    Course rice
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 2 people

    Ingredients
      

    For quinoa

    • 1 cup quinoa
    • 1-1/2 cup of water
    • 1 tablespoon oil
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • Pinch of turmeric

    For vegetables

    • 1/2 cup peas
    • 1/2 cup corn
    • 1/2 cup carrot cut in small pieces
    • 1 tablespoon thinly sliced ginger
    • 1 green chili minced
    • 1 tablespoon oil
    • 1/2  teaspoon cumin seeds
    • 1/4 teaspoon  black mustard seeds
    • 1 bay leave
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
    • 1 1ablespoon lemon or lime juice
    • 3/4 cup  tomato chopped for garnishing

    Instructions
     

    Method

    • Wash quinoa gently changing water several times.
    • In a sauce pan combine quinoa, water, oil, salt and turmeric. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer until quinoa is tender and water is absorbed. This should take about 15 minutes.
    • While quinoa is cooking heat the oil in other saucepan over medium heat, Test the heat by adding one cumin seed to the oil; if it cracks right away oil is ready.
    • Add the cumin seeds, black mustard seeds, and bay leave, as seeds crack add all the vegetables, carrot, corn, green peas, ginger, green pepper, and salt.
    • Let the vegetable cook over medium heat until vegetables are tender but firm.
    • Turn off the heat. Add quinoa to the mix of vegetable and gently fold it.
    • Finish off by adding lemon juice and tomatoes.
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    Quinoa Vegetable Pulao: A Gluten-Free, Protein-Rich, Vegetarian Recipe 

    Quinoa vegetable pilaf is a protein rich, gluten free and delicious rice based vegan dish. It is quick and easy to make. This can be served as a main dish or side dish.

    Preparing the Quinoa for Quinoa Pulao Recipe: 

    In this essential step of the quinoa pulao recipe, it’s crucial to ensure the quinoa is thoroughly rinsed, thereby eliminating any bitterness or unwanted residues that might affect the final dish. By washing the quinoa gently and changing the water several times, you’re not only improving its flavor but also enhancing its overall texture. 

    The combination of quinoa, water, oil, salt, and turmeric in the saucepan sets the foundation for a flavorful base, infusing the quinoa with aromatic spices and seasoning it perfectly for the upcoming cooking process. Bringing this mixture to a boil, covering it, and then simmering it over low heat allows the quinoa to absorb the flavors while achieving the ideal tender consistency, typically taking around 15 minutes.

    Sautéing the Vegetables for Quinoa Vegetable Pilaf: 

    In this next phase of crafting the quinoa vegetable pilaf, heating oil in a separate saucepan is the initial step to infusing the dish with rich flavors. Testing the oil’s readiness with a cumin seed ensures that the temperature is optimal for the subsequent sautéing process, guaranteeing that the vegetables are cooked to perfection. 

    Incorporating a blend of cumin seeds, black mustard seeds, and bay leaves into the hot oil adds depth and complexity to the dish, creating a flavorful base that complements the nutty taste of quinoa. As the seeds crackle, adding a medley of vibrant vegetables – including carrot, corn, green peas, ginger, green pepper, and salt – infuses the pilaf with a colorful array of nutrients and textures, enhancing both its visual appeal and nutritional value.

    Combining Quinoa and Vegetables for Quinoa Pilaf with Vegetables: 

    In this pivotal moment of assembling the quinoa pilaf with vegetables, the careful integration of cooked quinoa with the sautéed vegetables ensures a harmonious fusion of flavors and textures. Gently folding the quinoa into the vegetable mixture allows for even distribution, ensuring that every bite is bursting with a delightful medley of ingredients. 

    This meticulous process of combining the quinoa and vegetables not only enhances the dish’s visual presentation but also ensures that each component contributes to its overall flavor profile, resulting in a balanced and satisfying culinary experience.

    Final Touches to Complete Quinoa Indian Vegetarian Recipes:

    As the quinoa Indian vegetarian recipe nears completion, adding the final touches of lemon juice and tomatoes imparts a burst of freshness and acidity, elevating the dish to new heights of flavor complexity. The tangy notes of lemon juice complement the earthy undertones of the quinoa and vegetables, while the juicy sweetness of tomatoes adds a delightful contrast, creating a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. 

    These carefully selected ingredients not only add vibrancy and depth to the dish but also reflect the diverse culinary influences of Indian cuisine, making this quinoa recipe a true celebration of flavor and tradition.

    If you loved our quinoa vegetable pilaf recipe then you must also check out other variants of Rice: Vegetable Biryani, Masala Khichdi, Mango Rice, Quinoa Vegetable Pilaf and Lemon Rice

  • Aloo Jeera (Potatoes with Cumin Seeds)

    Aloo Jeera (Potatoes with Cumin Seeds)

    Aloo Jeera

    Aloo Jeera

    Aloo Jeera is a quick & easy yet a delicious side dish. This can compliment any meal. A whole cumin seeds have a slightly nutty flavor. In this recipe cumin seeds are one of the main spices. It makes up for a nice vegetable dry dish as a lunchbox option.
    No ratings yet
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes
    plus boiling potatoes 25 minutes
    Total Time 15 minutes
    Course Side Dish
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 4 people

    Ingredients
      

    • 4 cups about 5 medium size potato boiled peeled and cut into bite size pieces
    • 2 tbsp oil
    • 1-1/2 tsp cumin seeds jeera
    • 1/8 tsp asafetida hing
    • 1 tbsp ginger thinly sliced adrak
    • 2 green chili seeded and sliced length wise hari mirch
    • 1-1/2 tsp crushed coriander dhania
    • 1/4 tsp turmeric haldi
    • 1/4 tsp red chili powder
    • 1 tsp salt
    • 1 tsp mango powder amchoor
    • 2 tbsp cilantro finely chopped hara dhania

    Instructions
     

    • Heat the oil in a frying pan on medium-high heat. Oil is the right temperature when cumin seeds crack immediately after being put in the pan. Add cumin seeds and asafetida after seeds crack add ginger and green chilies and stir for few seconds.
    • Reduce the heat to medium. Add all the remaining spices, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, mango powder, and salt. Stir for few seconds.
    • Add potatoes and mix well with Masala. Stir fry for 4-5 minutes. All the potatoes should be coated with spices.
    • Turn off the heat and add cilantro. Mix it well and serve it hot.

    Notes

    Notes:  Jeera Aloo also can be served as snack or chat drizzling with whipped yogurt and tamarind chutney. Make sandwiches, use left over Roti or Paratha and roo Aloo Jeera to make a Wrap and these wrap make a good lunch box meal.
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  • Salted Mint Lassi (Salted Yogurt Drink)

    Salted Mint Lassi (Salted Yogurt Drink)

    Salted Mint Lassi

    Salted Mint Lassi (Salted Yogurt Drink)

    Lassi is a healthful yogurt-based drink, popular throughout India. Mint and ginger give it a tangy and refreshing taste. Mint Lassi is a great compliment to any meal, especially during summer.
    No ratings yet
    Course Beverages
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 2 people

    Ingredients
      

    Ingredients:

    • 2 cups of yogurt (dahi, curd)
    • ¼ cup mint leaves (podina)
    • 1 teaspoon ginger juice*
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon black salt (optional)
    • 1/8 teaspoon roasted cumin seed powder* (bhuna jeera)
    • Few mint leaves for garnishing
    • ½ cup of ice cubes

    Instructions
     

    Method

    • Blend mint  leaves with two tablespoons of yogurt to make a paste. Add yogurt, ginger  juice, salt, black salt, and one cup of water. Blend just enough to make the drink smooth; don’t over-blend as it will froth.
    • Pour it over ice cubes and garnish with roasted cumin seed powder and mint leave.
    • Lassi can be made one day in advance and refrigerated.

    Notes

    *Note:
    1. Making Ginger juice: shred the ginger using a fine grater or zester and squeeze the pulp using fingers.
    2. Roasting Cumin seeds: Toast cumin in a heavy skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until aromatic and brown in color. You can make a small jar of this in advance and keep it for couple of months. This is used in many recipes.
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