15+ Indian Curry Recipes to Spice Up Your Next Meal

15+ Indian Curry Recipes to Spice Up Your Next Meal

ByCook Maniac Team Reading Time: 13 minutes

Indian curry is a delicious and diverse part of Indian cuisine. You can find a wide variety of flavors, spices, and ingredients used in these recipes.

Exploring Indian curry recipes allows you to enjoy rich, aromatic dishes that you can customize to your taste.

A bubbling pot of aromatic Indian curry simmering on a stove, surrounded by vibrant spices and fresh herbs

Whether you prefer vegetarian options or meat-based curries, there’s something for everyone. You’ll learn how to balance spices for that perfect flavor and create meals that impress your family and friends.

Cooking Indian curry at home can bring a taste of tradition and culture right to your kitchen.

1) Chicken Tikka Masala

A steaming pot of Chicken Tikka Masala simmers on a stovetop, surrounded by vibrant spices and herbs

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish known for its creamy tomato sauce and flavors. It combines tender pieces of marinated chicken with a rich, spicy gravy. This dish is perfect served with rice or naan.

To make this recipe, you need to marinate your chicken before cooking. The marinating process adds flavor and ensures that the chicken is juicy.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450g) boneless chicken, cut into pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Cooking Instructions

  1. Mix yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, paprika, and salt.
  2. Marinate chicken for at least 1 hour.
  3. Heat oil in a pan.
  4. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until soft.
  5. Add marinated chicken and cook until browned.
  6. Stir in tomato puree and simmer for 15 minutes.
  7. Add heavy cream and cook for 5 more minutes.
  8. Serve hot with rice or naan.

2) Paneer Butter Masala

A steaming pot of Paneer Butter Masala simmers on a stovetop, surrounded by vibrant spices and fresh ingredients

Paneer Butter Masala is a beloved Indian dish known for its rich and creamy texture. You’ll find tender pieces of paneer swimming in a luscious tomato and cashew sauce. This curry is perfect for serving with naan or rice.

To make it, start by heating some oil in a pan. Then, add onions, garlic, and ginger to create a flavorful base. Next, mix in tomatoes and cashew nuts. This combination adds both taste and creaminess to the dish.

Once the sauce is ready, add the paneer. Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Finally, finish with a bit of butter for extra richness.

Ingredients

  • 200g paneer, cubed
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tablespoons cashew nuts
  • Spices (cumin, coriander, garam masala)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cream (optional)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat (350°F / 175°C).
  2. Add chopped onion, ginger, and garlic. Cook until soft.
  3. Stir in pureed tomatoes and cashew nuts. Cook for a few minutes.
  4. Add spices and salt, mixing well.
  5. Add paneer cubes and simmer for about 5 minutes.
  6. Finish with butter and stir gently. Serve hot.

3) Lamb Rogan Josh

A steaming pot of Lamb Rogan Josh curry surrounded by vibrant Indian spices and herbs

Lamb Rogan Josh is a flavorful dish from India. It features tender pieces of lamb cooked in a spicy and aromatic sauce. This dish is perfect for a comforting meal.

To make Lamb Rogan Josh, you will need ingredients like yogurt and spices. These give the dish its rich flavor. You can serve it with rice or naan for a complete meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (900 g) lamb, cut into chunks
  • 1 cup (240 ml) plain yogurt
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, minced
  • 2-3 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1-2 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh coriander, for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
  3. Stir in garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add lamb and brown on all sides.
  5. Mix in spices and cook for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add yogurt and simmer on low heat for 1-1.5 hours.
  7. Check if the lamb is tender; adjust seasoning, if needed.
  8. Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

4) Chana Masala

A steaming pot of Chana Masala surrounded by vibrant spices and fresh herbs

Chana Masala is a popular Indian dish made with chickpeas. It’s full of flavor and is a great option for vegetarians. The spices used in this dish make it warm and comforting.

You can enjoy Chana Masala with rice, naan, or even on its own. It’s versatile and can be adjusted to your taste. If you like it spicy, feel free to add more chili powder!

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 2 teaspoons coriander
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat (350°F or 175°C).
  2. Add chopped onion and cook until golden.
  3. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute.
  4. Add tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Mix in the spices and cook for another 2 minutes.
  6. Add chickpeas and stir well.
  7. Cook for 10 minutes, adding water if needed.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.

5) Butter Chicken

A simmering pot of butter chicken curry surrounded by vibrant spices and herbs

Butter Chicken, known as Murgh Makhani, is a favorite dish from India. It is creamy, savory, and has a mild spice level. The rich sauce makes it a perfect match for rice or naan.

To make Butter Chicken, you will cook marinated chicken in a spiced tomato sauce. The blend of butter, cream, and spices creates a delicious dish loved by many.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450 g) chicken, boneless and skinless
  • 1 cup (240 ml) yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 cup (240 ml) tomato puree
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. Marinate chicken in yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and spices for at least 1 hour.
  2. Cook marinated chicken in a pan until browned.
  3. Add butter, tomato puree, and salt; simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Stir in heavy cream and cook for another 5 minutes.
  5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

6) Baingan Bharta

A steaming pot of Baingan Bharta simmers on a stove, surrounded by vibrant spices and fresh vegetables

Baingan Bharta is a flavorful dish made from roasted eggplant. It is popular in Indian cuisine and has a smoky taste. This dish is usually served with rice or flatbreads like naan.

To make Baingan Bharta, you start by roasting the eggplant until it’s soft. You can do this on an open flame or in the oven at 425°F (220°C). After roasting, you peel the skin and mash the flesh.

Next, heat some oil in a pan. Add chopped onions, tomatoes, and spices like cumin and coriander. Cook until the onions are soft. Then, mix in the mashed eggplant and cook for a few more minutes.

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. It’s a comforting dish full of taste.

Ingredients

  • 1 large eggplant
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. Roast the eggplant until soft at 425°F (220°C).
  2. Peel the skin and mash the eggplant.
  3. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds.
  4. Add chopped onions and cook until soft.
  5. Stir in tomatoes and spices, cooking for a few minutes.
  6. Add the mashed eggplant and mix well.
  7. Garnish with cilantro and serve.

7) Aloo Gobi

A steaming pot of Aloo Gobi curry surrounded by vibrant spices and fresh ingredients

Aloo Gobi is a popular Indian dish made with potatoes (aloo) and cauliflower (gobi). It has a warm, comforting flavor and is easy to prepare. This dish is often seasoned with turmeric, cumin, and garam masala, giving it a lovely golden color.

To make Aloo Gobi, you will need fresh vegetables and spices. It’s a great option for a quick meal or a side dish. Serve it with rice or naan to enjoy its full flavor.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat (350°F or 180°C).
  2. Add cumin seeds and sauté until they sizzle.
  3. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
  4. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and sauté briefly.
  5. Add tomatoes and cook until soft.
  6. Mix in turmeric, potatoes, and cauliflower. Stir well.
  7. Cover and cook on low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Sprinkle garam masala and salt to taste.
  9. Garnish with cilantro before serving.

8) Bhindi Masala

A pot simmering with aromatic spices and okra, surrounded by bowls of fresh ingredients and a stack of roti

Bhindi Masala is a tasty dish made with okra (bhindi) and spices. It’s popular in many Indian homes. This dish is full of flavor and pairs well with rice or flatbreads.

To make Bhindi Masala, start by washing and cutting the okra into small pieces. Cook them with onions, tomatoes, and spices like cumin and coriander. This helps bring out the natural taste of the okra.

You can adjust the spices to make it milder or spicier. It’s a great way to enjoy vegetables in a flavorful way.

Ingredients

  • 500g okra
  • 2 onions, sliced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

9) Palak Paneer

A steaming pot of palak paneer simmering on a stove, surrounded by vibrant spices and fresh ingredients

Palak Paneer is a popular Indian dish made with spinach and paneer, a type of cheese. This dish is rich in flavor and packed with nutrients. It’s great for a quick meal or a special occasion.

To start, wash the spinach and wilt it in boiling water for a few minutes. After that, blend it into a smooth paste.

In a pan, cook onions, garlic, and ginger until golden brown. Then, add the spinach paste and cook it along with spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala.

Finally, add cubes of paneer and let them warm in the mixture. Serve it hot with rice or naan for a delicious meal.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups spinach
  • 200 grams paneer
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 inch ginger
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon coriander
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons oil

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Boil water and blanch spinach for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Blend spinach into a smooth paste.
  3. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions, garlic, and ginger.
  4. Add the spinach paste.
  5. Stir in cumin, coriander, and garam masala.
  6. Fold in paneer cubes and heat through.
  7. Serve with rice or naan.

10) Goan Fish Curry

A colorful array of spices, coconut milk, and fresh fish simmer in a vibrant red curry sauce in a traditional Indian cooking pot

Goan Fish Curry is a delightful dish from India, full of flavor and spice. It features a rich sauce made from tomatoes and coconut milk, giving it a creamy texture. You can prepare this dish quickly in about 20 to 40 minutes.

For this recipe, you can use fish like barramundi or salmon. The combination of spices helps enhance the fresh taste of the fish.

Ingredients

  • 3 fish fillets (about 100-150g each)
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 3-4 dry red chilies (broken in half)
  • 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat coconut oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add mustard seeds and dry red chilies. Cook until they start to pop.
  3. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft.
  4. Stir in coconut milk and add salt.
  5. Add fish fillets and simmer until cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

11) Dal Makhani

A steaming pot of Dal Makhani simmers on a stovetop, surrounded by various spices and ingredients

Dal Makhani is a popular North Indian dish. It’s known for its rich, creamy texture and smoky flavor. The main ingredients are black lentils and kidney beans, cooked slowly to perfection.

Start by soaking the lentils overnight for the best results. Cook them with spices, butter, and cream. This dish is delicious when paired with rice or naan.

You can adjust the spice level to match your taste. It’s a comfort food that warms the heart!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup black lentils
  • ¼ cup dry kidney beans (optional)
  • 5 cups water
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • ½ cup cream
  • Butter for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. Soak black lentils and kidney beans overnight.
  2. Drain and rinse the lentils. Add to a pot with water and salt.
  3. Cook on low heat for about 1.5 hours until soft.
  4. In another pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds.
  5. Add onions and sauté until golden.
  6. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and tomatoes. Cook until soft.
  7. Combine this mixture with lentils. Add cream and butter.
  8. Simmer for 10 minutes on low heat.
  9. Serve hot with rice or naan.

12) Fish Moilee

A steaming pot of Fish Moilee curry simmers on a stove, surrounded by vibrant spices and fresh ingredients

Fish Moilee is a delicious dish from Kerala, India. It features fish cooked in a light coconut milk curry, giving it a rich and creamy texture. This dish is perfect with rice or flatbread.

To make Fish Moilee, you can use fresh fish like tilapia or cod. Spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander give the curry its distinct flavor. The addition of curry leaves adds an aromatic touch.

This recipe is simple and quick, perfect for a weeknight dinner. You can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of this classic Indian dish!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Fish fillets (tilapia or cod)
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 onion (sliced)
  • 2 tomatoes (chopped)
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 10 curry leaves
  • Salt (to taste)
  • 2 tbsp oil

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat (around 350°F / 180°C).
  2. Add sliced onions and sauté until soft.
  3. Stir in turmeric, cumin, and coriander.
  4. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft.
  5. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
  6. Add the fish, curry leaves, and salt.
  7. Cook until fish is flaky, about 10-15 minutes.

13) Korma

A pot simmering with fragrant spices and creamy curry sauce, surrounded by bowls of colorful ingredients like vegetables, meat, and rice

Korma is a popular Indian dish that features tender meat or vegetables simmered in a rich and creamy sauce. This dish is known for its mild spices and comforting flavor. It often includes ingredients like yogurt, nuts, and aromatic spices.

You can make korma with chicken, lamb, or vegetables, making it versatile for various diets. The creamy texture comes from blending nuts or using coconut milk, which adds to its richness.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450g) chicken or vegetables
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 1/2 cup cashews or almonds
  • 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
  • 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a blender, blend nuts with yogurt until smooth.
  2. Heat oil in a pan, add onions, and sauté until golden.
  3. Add ginger-garlic paste and spices, stir for a minute.
  4. Add chicken or vegetables, cooking until browned.
  5. Pour in coconut milk and the nut-yogurt mixture.
  6. Simmer for 20 minutes on low heat until cooked through.
  7. Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice or naan.

14) Tandoori Chicken

A sizzling plate of tandoori chicken surrounded by vibrant spices and herbs

Tandoori chicken is a popular Indian dish known for its vibrant flavor and bright red color. It is marinated in spices and yogurt, which makes it juicy and tender. Cooking it in a tandoor gives it a unique, smoky flavor.

To make tandoori chicken, start by preparing the marinade.

Combine yogurt, lemon juice, and a mix of spices like cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Coat the chicken pieces in this mixture and let them sit for a few hours, preferably overnight.

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) or prepare your grill.

Cook the chicken for about 25-30 minutes until it is fully cooked and has a nice char. Serving it with fresh herbs and lemon adds a nice touch.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken pieces (legs or breasts)
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon coriander
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Mix yogurt, lemon juice, and spices in a bowl.
  2. Coat the chicken in the marinade and refrigerate for a few hours.
  3. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) or prepare a grill.
  4. Place chicken on a baking sheet or grill.
  5. Cook for 25-30 minutes until done.
  6. Serve with fresh herbs and lemon.

15) Vindaloo

A steaming pot of vindaloo curry surrounded by colorful spices and herbs on a rustic kitchen counter

Vindaloo is a spicy, flavorful Indian curry that originated in Goa. It combines meat, typically pork or chicken, with vinegar, garlic, and a mix of spices. This dish is known for its heat and tangy taste.

To make Vindaloo, start by marinating the meat in vinegar and spices. This helps enhance the flavors.

After marinating, cook the meat with onions, tomatoes, and more spices until it’s tender.

Vindaloo is often served with rice or naan. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Enjoy this vibrant dish at your next meal!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450g) pork or chicken
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2-3 tablespoons Vindaloo spice mix
  • Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Marinate the meat in vinegar, garlic, and Vindaloo spice mix for at least 1 hour.
  2. Heat oil in a pan, then add chopped onions. Sauté until golden.
  3. Add ginger and tomatoes. Cook until soft.
  4. Stir in the marinated meat, then cook on medium heat until browned.
  5. Cover and simmer until tender, about 30 minutes.
  6. Serve with rice or naan.

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