15 Authentic Indian Dinner Recipes You Must Try

Indian cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant spices, rich flavors, and diverse culinary traditions.

With these 15 Indian dinner recipes, you can bring authentic tastes from various regions of India into your own kitchen.

From creamy butter chicken and tangy paneer tikka masala to hearty dals and fragrant biryanis, these recipes offer a perfect blend of flavor, aroma, and nutrition.

Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, these dishes are approachable, delicious, and showcase the richness of Indian cooking.

Spice up your dinners with these flavorful Indian recipes today.

15 Authentic Indian Dinner Recipes You Must Try

Preparing Indian dinners at home is both rewarding and flavorful.

These 15 Indian dinner recipes offer a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes that celebrate traditional spices and techniques.

From spicy curries to comforting dals, each recipe provides authentic flavors that satisfy every palate.

Using fresh ingredients and classic seasonings, you can enjoy wholesome, aromatic meals without leaving your kitchen.

Elevate your weeknight or special occasion dinners with these diverse and delicious Indian recipes that bring warmth and culture to the table.

Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

Butter Chicken is a classic North Indian dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce.

Its velvety texture and mild spices make it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless chicken, cut into cubes
• 1 cup tomato puree
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp turmeric
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

• Heat butter in a pan over medium heat and sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden.
• Add chicken and cook until lightly browned.
• Stir in tomato puree, chili powder, turmeric, and salt; simmer 15 minutes.
• Add heavy cream and garam masala, simmer another 5 minutes until sauce is creamy and chicken is fully cooked.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.

Butter Chicken is creamy, mildly spiced, and incredibly comforting.

It’s a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for a hearty Indian dinner that satisfies all ages.

Palak Paneer (Spinach and Cottage Cheese Curry)

Palak Paneer combines fresh spinach and soft paneer cubes in a mildly spiced, creamy sauce.

This vegetarian dish is nutrient-rich, comforting, and packed with flavors of traditional Indian spices.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup paneer cubes
• 4 cups fresh spinach, washed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp turmeric
• ½ tsp chili powder
• 2 tbsp oil
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

• Blanch spinach in boiling water for 2 minutes, then blend into a smooth puree.
• Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds, onions, garlic, and ginger; sauté until golden.
• Add tomatoes, turmeric, chili powder, and salt; cook until soft.
• Stir in spinach puree and simmer 5 minutes.
• Add paneer cubes and garam masala, cook another 5 minutes.
• Serve hot with roti or steamed rice.

Palak Paneer is creamy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients.

It’s a wholesome vegetarian dinner that brings authentic North Indian flavors to your table.

Chole (Chickpea Curry)

Chole is a hearty and spicy chickpea curry, perfect for a protein-rich Indian dinner.

It combines robust spices, tomato gravy, and tender chickpeas for a flavorful and filling meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups chickpeas, soaked overnight
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 3 tbsp oil
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

• Boil soaked chickpeas until soft, set aside.
• Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds, onions, garlic, and ginger; sauté until golden.
• Add tomato puree, turmeric, chili powder, and coriander powder; cook until oil separates.
• Stir in boiled chickpeas and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
• Add garam masala and cook another 5 minutes.
• Serve hot with steamed rice or bhature.

Chole is spicy, hearty, and full of flavor.

It’s a satisfying vegetarian dinner that combines protein, fiber, and authentic Indian spices.

Lamb Rogan Josh

Rogan Josh is a traditional Kashmiri lamb curry, rich in aromatic spices and tender meat.

It’s deeply flavorful, slightly spicy, and perfect for an indulgent Indian dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lamb, cut into cubes
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tsp Kashmiri chili powder
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 3 tbsp oil
• Salt, to taste
• ½ cup chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

• Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden.
• Add lamb cubes and sear until lightly browned.
• Mix in chili powder, turmeric, coriander, and salt; cook 2 minutes.
• Stir in yogurt, reduce heat, and simmer 1–1.5 hours until lamb is tender.
• Add garam masala and garnish with cilantro before serving.

Rogan Josh is aromatic, tender, and rich in flavor.

It’s a perfect main dish for a special Indian dinner, pairing beautifully with rice or naan.

Vegetable Biryani

Vegetable Biryani is a fragrant, spiced rice dish with assorted vegetables and aromatic basmati rice.

It’s a colorful, satisfying Indian dinner that’s both wholesome and full of authentic flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans)
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• ½ tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp chili powder
• 3 tbsp oil
• 2 cups water
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

• Rinse rice and soak for 30 minutes.
• Heat oil in a pan, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden.
• Add vegetables, turmeric, chili powder, and salt; cook 5 minutes.
• Stir in rice, water, and garam masala; bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15–20 minutes until rice is cooked.
• Fluff rice gently and garnish with cilantro before serving.

Vegetable Biryani is aromatic, colorful, and bursting with flavors.

It’s a wholesome, satisfying dinner that showcases the depth and richness of Indian cuisine.

Paneer Butter Masala

Paneer Butter Masala is a rich and creamy North Indian curry featuring soft paneer cubes in a tomato-based sauce.

Its velvety texture, mild spices, and buttery flavor make it a favorite vegetarian dinner for all ages.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup paneer cubes
• 1 cup tomato puree
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp turmeric
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

• Heat butter in a pan over medium heat and sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden.
• Add tomato puree, turmeric, chili powder, and salt; simmer 10 minutes.
• Stir in cream and garam masala, then add paneer cubes and cook 5 minutes.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with naan or rice.

Paneer Butter Masala is creamy, flavorful, and indulgent.

It’s a perfect vegetarian dinner that combines rich taste with comforting textures.

Aloo Gobi (Potato and Cauliflower Curry)

Aloo Gobi is a classic vegetarian Indian dish with tender potatoes and cauliflower cooked in aromatic spices.

It’s hearty, flavorful, and a comforting dinner option for any day of the week.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 3 tbsp oil
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

• Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds and sauté until aromatic.
• Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until golden.
• Add potatoes, cauliflower, turmeric, chili, coriander, and salt; stir well.
• Cover and cook 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with roti or rice.

Aloo Gobi is flavorful, hearty, and aromatic.

It’s a satisfying vegetarian dinner that brings traditional Indian flavors to your table.

Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved Indian dish with marinated grilled chicken in a rich, creamy tomato sauce.

It’s mildly spiced, flavorful, and a perfect choice for a hearty dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless chicken, cut into cubes
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 cup tomato puree
• ½ cup cream
• 2 tbsp oil
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

• Marinate chicken in yogurt, chili, turmeric, and salt for 1–2 hours.
• Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden.
• Add tomato puree and simmer 10 minutes.
• Stir in cream and garam masala, then add chicken and cook until fully cooked.
• Serve hot with rice or naan.

Chicken Tikka Masala is creamy, aromatic, and full of flavor.

It’s a popular Indian dinner dish perfect for family meals or entertaining guests.

Dal Tadka (Spiced Lentil Curry)

Dal Tadka is a comforting Indian lentil dish cooked with spices and tempered with aromatic garlic and cumin.

It’s nutritious, protein-rich, and a staple vegetarian dinner across India.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup yellow lentils (toor dal or moong dal)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• ½ tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

• Boil lentils in water with turmeric until soft.
• Heat ghee or oil in a pan, add cumin seeds, garlic, and ginger; sauté until aromatic.
• Add onions and tomatoes, cook until soft.
• Pour the tempering over cooked lentils, mix well, and simmer 5 minutes.
• Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice or roti.

Dal Tadka is flavorful, protein-rich, and aromatic.

It’s a wholesome and comforting vegetarian dinner that is simple yet satisfying.

Vegetable Korma

Vegetable Korma is a creamy, mildly spiced Indian curry with assorted vegetables in a rich cashew and coconut sauce.

It’s a decadent, flavorful vegetarian dinner suitable for special occasions or everyday meals.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, cauliflower)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• ¼ cup cashews, soaked
• ½ cup coconut milk
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp turmeric
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

• Blend soaked cashews with coconut milk into a smooth paste.
• Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden.
• Add vegetables, turmeric, and salt; cook 5–7 minutes until slightly tender.
• Stir in cashew-coconut paste and garam masala; simmer 10 minutes until vegetables are cooked.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.

Vegetable Korma is creamy, aromatic, and mildly spiced.

It’s a comforting, wholesome vegetarian dinner that is both flavorful and elegant.

Matar Paneer (Peas and Cottage Cheese Curry)

Matar Paneer is a popular North Indian dish featuring soft paneer cubes and green peas in a mildly spiced tomato gravy.

It’s a comforting, protein-rich vegetarian dinner that pairs perfectly with rice or flatbreads.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup paneer cubes
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• ½ tsp turmeric
• ½ tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 2 tbsp oil
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

• Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds, and sauté until aromatic.
• Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until golden.
• Stir in tomato puree, turmeric, chili powder, and salt; simmer 5 minutes.
• Add peas and cook until tender, then add paneer cubes.
• Sprinkle garam masala and simmer another 5 minutes.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with roti or rice.

Matar Paneer is flavorful, creamy, and comforting.

It’s a wholesome vegetarian dinner that combines protein, vegetables, and authentic Indian spices.

Chicken Curry (Traditional Indian Style)

Chicken Curry is a staple Indian dinner with tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato and onion gravy.

It’s rich in flavor, aromatic, and perfect for a hearty family meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken pieces
• 2 onions, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 3 tbsp oil
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

• Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden brown.
• Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned.
• Stir in tomato puree, chili powder, turmeric, coriander, and salt; simmer 20 minutes.
• Add garam masala and cook another 5 minutes.
• Garnish with cilantro and serve with steamed rice or naan.

Chicken Curry is aromatic, spicy, and hearty.

It’s a classic Indian dinner that brings warmth and flavor to your table.

Vegetable Jalfrezi

Vegetable Jalfrezi is a stir-fried Indian curry with colorful vegetables in a tangy tomato-based sauce.

It’s vibrant, mildly spiced, and a quick, healthy dinner option.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (capsicum, carrots, beans, peas)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric
• ½ tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 2 tbsp oil
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

• Heat oil in a pan and sauté cumin seeds, onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
• Add vegetables, turmeric, chili powder, and salt; cook 5–7 minutes until tender.
• Stir in tomato and garam masala; cook another 5 minutes.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or roti.

Vegetable Jalfrezi is colorful, tangy, and aromatic.

It’s a wholesome, quick Indian dinner full of flavors and textures.

Baingan Bharta (Smoky Mashed Eggplant Curry)

Baingan Bharta is a traditional North Indian dish made with roasted eggplant, onions, and spices.

Its smoky flavor, soft texture, and rich spices make it a comforting vegetarian dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• ½ tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 2 tbsp oil
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

• Roast eggplants over an open flame or oven until charred; peel and mash.
• Heat oil in a pan, sauté cumin seeds, onions, garlic, and ginger until golden.
• Add tomatoes, turmeric, chili powder, and salt; cook until soft.
• Mix in mashed eggplant and cook 5–7 minutes.
• Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with roti or rice.

Baingan Bharta is smoky, flavorful, and comforting.

It’s a classic vegetarian Indian dinner that is aromatic and satisfying.

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Pav Bhaji (Spiced Vegetable Mash with Bread)

Pav Bhaji is a popular Indian street food dish featuring spiced mashed vegetables served with buttered bread rolls.

It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a casual yet satisfying dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans), boiled and mashed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 2 tbsp oil or butter
• 1 tsp pav bhaji masala
• Salt, to taste
• Bread rolls (pav) for serving
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

• Heat oil or butter in a pan, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden.
• Add tomatoes and cook until soft.
• Add mashed potatoes, vegetables, pav bhaji masala, and salt; mix well.
• Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently.
• Serve hot with buttered pav and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Pav Bhaji is spicy, buttery, and flavorful.

It’s a fun, hearty Indian dinner that is filling, delicious, and perfect for all ages.