Top Vegan Dishes to Try in India
India is one of the most vegan-friendly destinations globally, thanks to its long history of plant-based diets, rich agricultural resources, and abundant variety of spices and herbs. Traditional Indian cuisine includes countless vegan dishes, each packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re a lifelong vegan, a new convert, or just curious about plant-based food, India offers an exciting array of vegan dishes that will thrill your taste buds. In this article, we’ll explore the top vegan dishes you need to try in India. Moreover, we will discuss why these dishes are celebrated as part of the country’s culinary legacy. At Chef Cooking Resort, we offer various remarkable vegetarian dishes for our viewers.
1. Chole (Chickpea Curry)
Chole, also known as chana masala, is a popular vegan dish made from chickpeas cooked in a thick, spiced gravy. This dish hails from the northern parts of India. It is a staple at family gatherings, street food stalls, and restaurants alike. Made with a rich blend of tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, chole packs a powerful flavor punch and a healthy dose of plant-based protein.
Chole is often served with bhature (a type of fried bread) or rice, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. For a more health-conscious approach, consider pairing it with whole-grain roti or steamed basmati rice.
2. Rajma (Kidney Bean Curry)
Rajma is a classic North Indian dish featuring kidney beans simmered in a spicy tomato-based sauce. It’s a comforting, protein-rich dish that’s not only vegan but also gluten-free. This makes it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. Rajma is flavored with spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili, creating a fragrant and satisfying stew.
Typically served with rice, this dish is known as “rajma chawal” when served together and is often referred to as the Indian version of “soul food.” Also, it’s easy to make, highly nutritious, and a fantastic source of protein, fiber, and essential minerals.
3. Baingan Bharta (Smoked Eggplant Curry)
Baingan bharta is a smoky, flavorful dish made from roasted and mashed eggplant cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices. Originally from the Punjab region, this dish brings out the rich, smoky flavor of eggplant and transforms it into a spicy, savory delight.
The eggplants are typically roasted over an open flame to achieve a unique smoky taste before being mixed with a blend of spices, giving it a depth of flavor that is both complex and comforting. Baingan bharta is typically served with roti or naan and can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.
4. Aloo Gobi (Potato and Cauliflower Curry)
Aloo gobi is a popular vegan dish made with potatoes and cauliflower, flavored with spices such as turmeric, cumin, and ginger. The name “aloo” refers to potatoes, while “gobi” means cauliflower. These two ingredients combine to create a flavorful and filling dish.
Moreover, Aloo gobi is versatile and can be made dry or with a little gravy. This depends on regional variations or personal preferences. This dish is often served with roti, naan, or rice, and it’s known for its simplicity and hearty nature. The turmeric in aloo gobi gives it a beautiful golden color while adding an anti-inflammatory boost.
5. Masoor Dal (Red Lentil Curry)
Dal (lentils) is a staple in Indian cuisine. Masoor dal (red lentils) is one of the most beloved vegan dishes in India. Masoor dal is a quick-cooking lentil that, when combined with garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and spices like cumin and mustard seeds, creates a flavorful and nourishing meal. This dish is rich in protein, fiber, and iron, making it an excellent choice for vegans.
Masoor dal is typically served with steamed rice, roti, or chapati, and can be garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Moreover, this humble dish is easy to prepare. This make it ideal for those looking to enjoy an authentic Indian vegan meal without a lot of effort.
6. Pani Puri (Water Balls)
Pani puri, also known as golgappa or puchka in various regions, is a popular Indian street food that is both vegan and highly addictive! This dish consists of small, crispy, hollow puris filled with a spicy, tangy mixture of tamarind water, mint, chaat masala, and a stuffing of potatoes and chickpeas.
Typically served as a snack or appetizer, pani puri offers a unique experience, as the puris are meant to be eaten in one bite to capture the explosion of flavors. This is a favorite street food snack all over India, and while each region has its variations, the core ingredients remain vegan.
7. Vegetable Biryani
Biryani is a famous rice dish in India, traditionally made with meat, but vegetable biryani offers a vegan alternative that’s just as flavorful. Basmati rice is cooked with an assortment of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices like cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and bay leaves. The vegetables add texture and nutritional value, while the aromatic spices create a mouth-watering aroma.
Served with a side of vegan raita (cucumber-yogurt sauce) made from plant-based yogurt, vegetable biryani is a complete meal that’s packed with flavors and textures. Moreover, it’s often garnished with fried onions, cashews, and fresh cilantro for added taste.
8. Pakoras (Vegetable Fritters)
Pakoras are deep-fried vegetable fritters made by coating vegetables like onions, spinach, potatoes, and cauliflower in a chickpea flour batter spiced with turmeric, chili powder, and cumin. These crispy delights are a popular snack throughout India, especially during the monsoon season.
Pakoras are often enjoyed with green chutney (a vegan sauce made from cilantro, mint, and lime) or tamarind chutney, making them a flavorful, crunchy treat that’s completely vegan and gluten-free. Pakoras can be made at home with minimal ingredients and can be customized with any vegetable you prefer.
9. Idli and Sambar
Idli is a steamed rice cake popular in South India, typically served with sambar, a spiced lentil soup with vegetables. Made from fermented rice and lentils, idlis are fluffy, light, and easy to digest. They’re an excellent source of protein and probiotics, making them a nutritious breakfast or snack option.
Sambar is a tangy and spicy soup made with toor dal (split pigeon peas) and vegetables like drumsticks, carrots, and pumpkin. Together, idli and sambar create a balanced meal that’s healthy, filling, and completely vegan.
10. Pav Bhaji
Originating from Mumbai, pav bhaji is a popular street food dish that consists of a spicy vegetable mash (bhaji) served with soft bread rolls (pav). The bhaji is made by cooking mixed vegetables like potatoes, peas, and tomatoes with a unique spice blend, which is then mashed to a thick consistency.
While pav typically contains butter, vegan versions of pav bhaji can be made by using dairy-free margarine or cooking the bhaji without butter. Moreover, this dish is a spicy, flavorful treat that’s perfect for a quick meal or snack.
11. Dhokla
Dhokla is a steamed savory cake made from fermented rice and chickpea flour, originally from the state of Gujarat. Light and spongy, dhokla is flavored with mustard seeds, green chilies, and fresh cilantro. This dish is traditionally enjoyed as a breakfast or snack and is known for its slightly tangy taste.
Also, Dhokla is a popular option for those seeking a nutritious, protein-rich, and low-calorie snack. It’s typically served with green chutney and makes a perfect accompaniment to chai.
12. Coconut Curry with Vegetables
A staple in South India, coconut curry is a flavorful vegan dish made with fresh coconut milk, an array of vegetables, and aromatic spices like turmeric, mustard seeds, and curry leaves. Coconut curry is creamy, rich, and perfectly suited for pairing with rice, roti, or dosas.
This dish can be customized with vegetables of your choice, making it both versatile and nutritious. Moreover, Coconut curry is mild yet flavorful, offering a satisfying meal that’s ideal for lunch or dinner.
13. Tofu Bhurji
Tofu bhurji is a vegan take on the popular Indian dish “paneer bhurji” (scrambled paneer). It’s made by crumbling tofu and sautéing it with onions, tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices like turmeric and garam masala. Furthermore, Tofu bhurji is high in protein and can be served as a breakfast option or as a side dish.
Paired with roti, paratha, or even whole-grain toast, tofu bhurji is a nutritious, protein-packed dish perfect for vegans looking for a quick, savory meal.
Read Also: What are the top 6 Indian dishes?
Conclusion
India’s cuisine is a treasure trove for vegans, with a wealth of dishes rooted in plant-based ingredients and vibrant flavors. Whether you’re a fan of spicy curries, savory snacks, or comforting rice dishes, Indian vegan food has something for every palate. These vegan dishes showcase the rich culinary diversity of India. They also offer a nutritious, flavorful alternative for those seeking to follow a plant-based lifestyle. Whether you’re traveling through India or exploring Indian recipes at home, don’t miss out on these vegan classics that highlight the beauty of India’s plant-powered cuisine.
