Getting a delicious and satisfying dinner on the table can be a challenge, especially when you’re short on time. That’s why we’ve put together 20 mouth-watering Indian recipes that can be prepared in just 5 minutes! Whether you’re a busy professional or a student looking for a quick and easy meal solution, these recipes are sure to impress.
From classic omelettes to flavorful dals and curries, our list of quick Indian recipes is designed to cater to your cravings. And the best part? Each dish can be prepared in under 5 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you need a break from cooking.
Stay tuned as we share these delectable recipes with you, one by one!
Masala Omelette
Start your day with a flavorful twist on the classic omelette by adding aromatic spices and herbs from India.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter or oil
Instructions:
1. Beat the eggs in a bowl and add salt, black pepper, garam masala powder, and cumin powder. Mix well.
2. Heat the butter or oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the pan and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the edges start to set.
4. Add chopped green chilies (if using) and gently fold the omelette in half.
5. Cook for another minute, then slide onto a plate and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes
Poha with Peanuts
This Indian-inspired snack is a perfect blend of crunchy peanuts and soft poha, making it a satisfying treat any time of the day. With its simplicity and versatility, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup poha (flattened rice flakes)
– 1/2 cup peanuts
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the poha in a fine mesh sieve until it’s free of excess starch.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat.
3. Add the peanuts and stir-fry until they’re lightly toasted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the rinsed poha to the pan and stir well to combine with the peanuts.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the poha is crispy but not burnt.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Besan Chilla
Besan Chilla, a popular Indian snack, is a flavorful flatbread made with gram flour (besan) and spices. This easy-to-make recipe yields crispy and delicious besan chillas perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Chopped cilantro or scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together besan, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a smooth batter. The consistency should be slightly thicker than pancake batter.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Brush the skillet with ghee or oil.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter onto the skillet and spread evenly to form a circle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the besan chilla starts to puff up and the edges start to curl.
7. Flip and cook for an additional minute, until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Tomato Cucumber Raita
This refreshing Indian-inspired side dish combines the sweetness of tomatoes and cucumbers with the cooling properties of yogurt, perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and grated cucumber.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Add salt to taste and mix well.
4. Pour the yogurt mixture over the tomato-cucumber mixture and stir gently to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time) + chilling time
Microwave Dal Tadka
This Indian-inspired dal tadka recipe is a flavorful and nutritious meal that can be cooked to perfection in just a few minutes. With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious and comforting bowl of lentils ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the lentils and place them in a microwave-safe bowl with 2 cups of fresh water.
3. Microwave on high for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 4-5 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
4. Heat the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and salt in a separate microwave-safe bowl for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant.
5. Add the tadka mixture to the cooked lentils and stir well.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Egg Bhurji
A popular Indian-style scrambled egg dish that’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
– Chopped cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Add a pinch of salt.
2. Heat the butter or oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic and cumin seeds, and cook for another minute.
5. Pour in the eggs and scramble them with a spatula until they’re cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Instant Vegetable Upma
A quick and easy breakfast or snack option, Instant Vegetable Upma is a flavorful and nutritious dish that can be prepared in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina (cream of wheat)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 small carrot, grated
– 1 small potato, peeled and diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion, grated carrot, and diced potato. Saute until they are tender.
3. Add cumin seeds and saute for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add semolina to the pan, stirring continuously.
5. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
6. Add water and stir well.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the Upma is cooked.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Yogurt Dip
Spicy Yogurt Dip Recipe
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and spicy yogurt dip that’s perfect for veggies, chips, or crackers!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (depending on desired level of spiciness)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine yogurt, sour cream, honey, ginger, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix until smooth.
2. Add sriracha sauce to taste. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to your desired level of heat.
3. Refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika or chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep only)
Jeera Rice with Ready-made Dal
This simple recipe combines the warmth of jeera rice with the comfort of ready-made dal, making for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a busy day when you need a flavorful fix!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon jeera powder (cumin)
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Salt, to taste
– Ready-made dal (1-2 cups), warmed up
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the water and cook the rice with 2 cups of fresh water until it’s tender.
3. Heat the ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the jeera powder and stir for 1-2 minutes, till fragrant.
4. Mix the cooked rice with the jeera mixture and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve the jeera rice alongside warmed-up ready-made dal.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes (including soaking time)
Quick Aloo Sabzi
A flavorful and nutritious Indian-inspired vegetable curry that can be prepared in no time! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized potato (aloo), peeled and diced
– 2 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the diced potatoes, tomatoes, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Serve hot over rice, roti, or with naan bread!
Microwave Palak Paneer
Palak paneer, a popular Indian dish, gets a modern twist with this easy-to-make microwave recipe. This creamy spinach curry is ready in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine spinach leaves, garlic, and butter. Microwave on high for 30 seconds.
2. Add cumin powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add paneer cubes to the spinach mixture and stir gently.
4. Cook on high for 1 minute.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half.
6. Serve hot with naan, rice, or roti.
Cooking Time: 2 minutes
Chana Chaat
Chana chaat is a popular Indian street food snack that combines the flavors of chickpeas, yogurt, and spices. This recipe makes a delicious and refreshing treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped green chili (optional)
– Chaat masala powder, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chickpeas, yogurt, cilantro, lemon juice, and garam masala powder.
2. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Add salt to taste and mix again.
4. If desired, add chopped green chili for an extra kick.
5. Garnish with chaat masala powder and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (excluding cooking time of chickpeas)
Ready-to-eat Sambar with Rice
Sambar is a popular South Indian accompaniment made with lentils and mixed vegetables. This recipe provides a quick and easy way to prepare sambar to go along with steaming hot rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 potato, peeled and diced
– 1 teaspoon sambar powder
– Salt, to taste
– Cooking oil or ghee, for tempering
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, and diced potato. Saute until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the soaked lentils, sambar powder, and salt to the pan. Mix well.
4. Pour in 2 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the lentils are cooked.
5. Serve the ready-to-eat sambar over steaming hot rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tandoori Roti with Store-bought Butter Chicken
This recipe combines the flavors of India with ease, by using store-bought butter chicken as a base and pairing it with freshly made tandoori roti. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and authentic-tasting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 packet of active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
– Store-bought butter chicken
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast and lukewarm water. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add the flour, salt, and ghee or oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it slightly into an oval shape.
5. Cook the roti in a non-stick skillet or tava over medium heat for 30-45 seconds on each side, until they puff up and have a few brown spots.
6. Serve with store-bought butter chicken.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Masala Maggi
Instant Masala Maggi is a popular Indian-inspired instant noodle dish that can be whipped up in no time. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying meal ready to devour.
Ingredients:
– 1 packet of Maggi Instant Noodles
– 2 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of instant masala powder (or Maggi Masala Mix)
– Salt to taste
– Optional: Chopped veggies (e.g., carrots, peas) or cooked chicken for added protein
Instructions:
1. Boil the water and cook the Maggi noodles according to the packet instructions.
2. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the cooked noodles, instant masala powder (or Maggi Masala Mix), and salt to taste. Stir well.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Curd Rice with Tempered Mustard Seeds
A classic Indian recipe that combines the creaminess of curd with the crunch of tempered mustard seeds, this dish is a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1/2 cup curd
– 1 tablespoon tempering oil
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the tempering oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the mustard seeds and let them sizzle until they turn golden brown (about 10-15 seconds).
3. In a separate bowl, mix the curd with salt to taste.
4. Add the cooked rice to the curd mixture and mix well to combine.
5. Add the tempered mustard seeds to the rice-curd mixture and stir gently.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh coriander leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Microwave Baingan Bharta
Elevate your evening with this quick and flavorful Indian recipe, where roasted eggplant is transformed into a smoky, savory delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the microwave to high.
2. Cut the eggplants into 1-inch pieces and place them in a microwave-safe dish.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt on top of the eggplant.
4. Drizzle with lemon juice and vegetable oil.
5. Microwave for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes, until the eggplant is tender and the mixture is well combined.
6. Serve hot with naan or rice.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Sev Tamatar Sabzi
This recipe is a popular North Indian dish that combines the flavors of tomato, spices, and crispy sev (fried gram flour noodles) for a delicious and quick meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2-3 tablespoons sev (fried gram flour noodles)
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add diced tomatoes, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft and mushy.
5. Add sev and stir-fry for another minute to combine with the tomato mixture.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ready-made Paratha with Pickle
Looking for a simple and satisfying snack? This recipe combines the convenience of ready-made parathas with the tangy flavor of pickle, perfect for a quick bite any time.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 ready-made parathas (depending on size)
– 1/4 cup of your favorite pickle
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the parathas according to package instructions.
2. Slice the paratha into desired portions.
3. Place a spoonful of pickle on each portion.
4. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including heating the parathas)
Enjoy your delicious and easy snack!
Spiced Buttermilk with Leftover Rice
Elevate your leftover rice game with this creamy and aromatic Spiced Buttermilk recipe! This flavorful condiment is perfect for serving alongside Indian or Middle Eastern-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover cooked white or brown rice
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Pinch of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, grated ginger, cumin, coriander, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Add the cooked rice to the buttermilk mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside your favorite dishes.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep) + 30 minutes (refrigeration)
Summary
Indulge in the flavors of India with these quick and easy dinner recipes that can be prepared in just 5 minutes! From breakfast to dinner, this collection has something for everyone. Whip up a Masala Omelette or Besan Chilla for a morning treat, or try Microwave Dal Tadka or Instant Vegetable Upma for a speedy lunch. As the evening approaches, enjoy Spicy Yogurt Dip with Jeera Rice and Ready-made Dal, or try Quick Aloo Sabzi or Microwave Palak Paneer for a satisfying dinner. With these 20 Indian recipes, you’ll never be stuck in a culinary rut!