25 Easy Indian Recipes That Are Even Better Than Takeout

Last updated on September 21, 2020 by Food Network Canada Editors

Who doesn't love Indian restaurant classics like butter chicken, fluffy naan, aromatic biryani and flaky samosas? Skip the takeout and head to your kitchen this evening with recipes that are sure to take your taste buds on an exciting journey.

1 of 25

Mixed Vegetable Pakoras

 A classic Indian recipe, this deep-fried veggie staple has sometimes been called the "tempura" of Indian food. The spice-infused batter results in a gorgeous golden puffy coating with some crunch. Fresh cilantro chutney is the perfect addition in dipping sauce form. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/global-eats/photos/international-recipes-to-fill-travelling-void/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">international recipes that'll help fill your travelling void</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mixed-vegetable-pakoras/23432/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mixed Vegetable Pakoras</a>
2 of 25

The Best Samosas

 When it comes to Indian cuisine, you can't go wrong with this appetizer classic. Pro tip: when working with the wet dough, leave it long enough to hydrate in the flour and you'll end up with crispy, bubbled and puffy samosas. They don't call this recipe the best for nothing. Rise and shine with these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/indian-inspired-breakfast-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Indian-inspired breakfast recipes that'll spice up your morning routine</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-best-samosas/23431/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Best Samosas</a>
3 of 25

Instant Pot Indian Shrimp Biriyani

 This easy Indian recipe can be popped straight into your trusty Instant Pot. Ready in 30 minutes, the shrimp and spices will blend together so beautifully that you'll want to make this recipe on repeat. Don't forget the side of basmati rice! Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-indian-shrimp-biriyani/22688/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instant Pot Indian Shrimp Biriyani</a>
4 of 25

Instant Pot Indian Dal

Use your Instant Pot to make this red <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/lentil-recipes-we-love/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">lentil</a> stew in less time than it takes for a delivery from your favourite Indian restaurant. It's seasoned with an assortment of aromatic spices including ginger, turmeric, coriander and cumin. Serve with a side of naan or over basmati rice. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-indian-dal/22687/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Instant Pot Indian Dal</a>
5 of 25

Cauliflower Tikka Masala

Tikka masala is typically made with cream, but this one-pot vegetarian version uses sour cream or plain yogurt in its place. Serve the combination of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/best-cauliflower-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cauliflower</a>, chickpeas and green peas along with cooked brown rice for a complete dinner. For more inspiration, these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/best-recipes-with-beans/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">recipes will make you rethink canned beans</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cauliflower-tikka-masala/20147/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Cauliflower Tikka Masala</a>
6 of 25

Extra-Crispy Indian Spiced Chicken Wings

These crispy fried <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/entertaining/photos/most-amazing/chicken-wing-recipes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">chicken wings</a> are marinated in a spicy blend of garlic, ginger and chiles before they're dredged in chickpea flour. Once cooked, drizzle them with spiced butter and toasted coconut — and serve with cool cucumber raita for dipping. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/extra-crispy-indian-spiced-chicken-wings/19612/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Extra-Crispy Indian Spiced Chicken Wings</a>
7 of 25

Lamb Popsicles

While you're preparing an scrumptious feast for your family, serve these ground lamb popsicles as an appetizer. They're seasoned with bold spices that are complemented by the homemade cherry peach chutney. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lamb-popsicles/13078/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bal Arneson's Lamb Popsicles</a>
8 of 25

Quick and Easy Butter Chicken

Rich and creamy butter chicken is <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/canadian-comfort-food-by-zodiac-sign/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">comfort food</a> at its finest. Don't be daunted to make it yourself at home. This genius hack utilizes tomato soup — and will have dinner on the table in 25 minutes. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/quick-and-easy-butter-chicken/19508/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Quick and Easy Butter Chicken</a>
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9 of 25

Garam Masala

 Ever order takeout and wish you had more spices and sauces? Keep your hands busy by crafting your own homemade garam masala, the classic Indian blend with intense flavour. It's quick, easy and not as labour intensive as you'd think. We promise! For more ideas, shake things up with these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/healthy-salt-substitutes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">healthy salt substitutes</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/garam-masala/11333/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bal Arneson's Garam Masala</a>
10 of 25

Chicken Tikka Masala

Boneless, skinless <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/15-best-chicken-thigh-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">chicken thighs</a> are slow cooked in a spicy tomato cream sauce and served with cooked basmati rice. Enjoy it for dinner — and pack up the <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/recipes-with-rotisserie-chicken/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">leftovers</a> for an easy, reheatable lunch the next day. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-tikka-masala-by-food-network-kitchen/21907/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Chicken Tikka Masala</a>
11 of 25

Instant Pot Saag Paneer

Fresh cheese and baby spinach are combined in this spicy Instant Pot saag paneer. Ready in 35 minutes, serve it with warm naan or cooked basmati rice. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-saag-paneer/22694/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Instant Pot Saag Paneer</a>
12 of 25

Tandoori Chicken Kati Roll

A handheld treat the the entire family will love, these kati rolls are made with tandoori-style chicken wrapped in warm, flaky paratha. Serve them for lunch or dinner alongside a cucumber salad. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tandoori-chicken-kati-roll/22650/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Tandoori Chicken Kati Roll</a>
13 of 25

Instant Pot Indian Spicy Eggplant

Skip the lengthy peeling and roasting of a traditional eggplant bhartha and try this Instant Pot version that's ready in a fraction of the time. It's a great vegetarian main on its own — or serve it on the side with a meat curry. You can also <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/cook-these-vegan-recipes-instant-pot/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cook these vegan recipes in your Instant Pot this week</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-indian-spicy-eggplant/22689/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Instant Pot Indian Spicy Eggplant</a>
14 of 25

Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Butter chicken is an Indian restaurant favourite — and this recipe will help you recreate the comforting dish at home using your Instant Pot. Aromatic and creamy, you won't want to waste a single drop of the spiced sauce. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/instant-pot-butter-chicken/22677/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Instant Pot Butter Chicken</a>
15 of 25

Slow Cooked Curried Chicken With Cauliflower

When you're craving curry but want to skip the rich, creamy options, opt for this yogurt- and broth-based recipe filled with <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/cauliflower-recipes-satisfy-carb-cravings/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cauliflower</a>, red lentils, <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/one-can-of-chickpeas-six-different-meals/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">chickpeas</a> and morsels of chicken. It can also be easily transformed into a vegetarian option by leaving out the chicken and using a vegetable broth instead. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooked-curried-chicken-with-cauliflower/18548/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Slow Cooked Curried Chicken with Cauliflower</a>
16 of 25

Tandoori Meatballs With Cilantro Raita

These seasoned beef <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/mouth-watering-meatball-recipes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">meatballs</a> are oven-baked in a spiced butter to a golden brown finish. It's served with grated cucumber, a tangy tamarind chutney and creamy yogurt dipping sauce. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tandoori-meatballs-with-cilantro-raita/19510/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Tandoori Meatballs with Cilantro Raita</a>
17 of 25

Chilled Raita Soup

If you've never tried the delicious India cucumber-yogurt sauce raita, this spiced soup is the perfect opportunity to do so. Although it might take a little longer to whip up than your average soup, it's still easy-peasy and the blended flavours are worth the extra wait. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chilled-raita-soup/13044/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bal Arneson's Chilled Raita Soup</a>
18 of 25

Roasted Sweet Potato Aloo Gobi

This popular and traditional Indian dish gets a fresh update! Waxy potatoes are switched with <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/superfood-spotlight-best-sweet-potato-recipes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">sweet potato</a> and chickpeas are introduced into the mix. Simply drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and toss with curry powder, cumin and chili flakes, then place in a casserole dish and let your oven do all the work. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/roasted-sweet-potato-aloo-gobi/12934/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Michael Smith’s Roasted Sweet Potato Aloo Gobi</a>
19 of 25

Slow Cooker Chicken Curry

Start this curry before you head out in the morning and come home to a hearty meal bursting with bold Indian spices. Serve with warm naan or basmati rice to soak up all of the delicious sauce. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-chicken-curry/18952/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Slow Cooker Chicken Curry</a>
20 of 25

Indian Beef and Peas

Also known as kheema, this dish of spiced ground beef and green peas is a quick and delicious weeknight dish. It's a great filling for roti or opt for a low-carb option like lettuce leaf wraps. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/indian-beef-and-peas/13060/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bal Arneson's Indian Beef and Peas</a>
21 of 25

Palak Paneer

Even if you’re not a fan of spinach, it’s hard to say no to this deliciously creamy dish. Leafy spinach is sautéed until tender along with tomatoes, cilantro and a variety of spices before being puréed and mixed with cream. Spoon over a bowl of steamy basmati rice or dunk pieces of naan right into it. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/palak-paneer-spinach-with-indian-cheese/16857/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Palak Paneer</a>
22 of 25

Potato Vegetable Samosas

Whether you bake or fry these samosas filled with spiced potato, spinach and peas, you and your family won't be able to eat just one. Dip them in a store-bought mango chutney or tamarind sauce. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/potato-vegetable-samosas/8931/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Anna Olson's Potato Vegetable Samosas</a>
23 of 25

Coconut Indian Chicken in a Bag

Update your regular chicken dinner with this refreshing coconut-infused poultry! The chicken breasts are rubbed with spices and lots of cilantro in foil packets. Leave a hole in the top to pour in the coconut cream, then seal and bake. In just 25 minutes, everyone gets their own package of tender, juicy chicken. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/coconut-indian-chicken-in-a-bag/12093/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Coconut Indian Chicken in a Bag</a>
24 of 25

Gulab Jamun (Indian Donuts)

Gulab jamun is a traditional Indian dessert that is essentially deep-fried doughnut balls soaked in a spice-infused syrup. The warm flavours of cardamom, cloves and star anise balance the sweetness of the syrup, amounting to one delicious bite. Make extra, because you’re going to have a hard time limiting yourself to just one! Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/gulab-jabun-indian-donuts/11355/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bal Arneson’s Gulab Jamun (Indian Donuts)</a>
25 of 25

Mango Kulfi

Kulfi, otherwise known as the Indian version of ice cream, has a similar sweet and creamy taste, but it also has a slightly chewy texture. This recipe features mangoes, bananas, yogurt and cardamom for an absolute explosion of flavour! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/indian-fried-fish-with-gujarati-dal/4520/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bal Arneson’s Mango Kulfi</a>
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