Gluten-free and nightshade-free diets have gained popularity in recent years, with more and more people opting for these dietary restrictions for various health reasons. However, following a special diet can often mean missing out on certain foods, especially when it comes to traditional dishes from different cuisines. One such dish is the beloved Indian naan, a soft and fluffy flatbread that is typically made with wheat flour and spices. But fear not, as we have a delicious and easy gluten-free and nightshade-free naan recipe that will satisfy your cravings without compromising your dietary needs.
One of the most popular and flavorful Indian dishes is spiced lentils, also known as dal. This dish is a staple in many Indian households and is made with a variety of lentils, spices, and herbs. From simple to elaborate, there are countless variations of this dish, each with their own unique flavor profile. Whether you're a vegetarian or a meat lover, Indian spiced lentils are a must-try for any food lover.
Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a classic Indian dish that has gained popularity all over the world. This rich and creamy dish is made with a tomato-based sauce, spices, and tender chicken pieces. The dish gets its name from the generous amount of butter used in the sauce, which gives it a velvety texture and adds a delicious richness to the dish. It's a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.
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Indian Chicken Korma
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Extra Virgin Olive
Korma is a popular Indian curry dish that is known for its creamy and rich sauce. It's made with a variety of spices, nuts, and yogurt, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. The chicken is marinated in yogurt and then cooked with the sauce, creating a tender and flavorful dish. The sauce is a perfect blend of spicy and sweet, making it a favorite among those who prefer milder curries.
If you're a seafood lover, then Indian shrimp curry is a must-try dish. This dish is made with succulent shrimp cooked in a spicy and flavorful sauce made with coconut milk, tomatoes, and a variety of spices. The coconut milk adds a creaminess to the dish and balances out the heat from the spices, creating a perfectly balanced curry. Serve it with some steamed rice for a complete and delicious meal.
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Indian Chickpea Coconut Curry
Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Yellow Onion, Garlic, Ginger, Curry
For a vegetarian option, Indian chickpea coconut curry is a perfect choice. This dish is made with chickpeas, also known as chana, and a creamy coconut-based sauce. The sauce is made with a variety of spices and herbs, giving it a delicious and complex flavor. It's a filling and satisfying dish that is perfect for a comforting meal on a cold day.
No Indian meal is complete without some naan, a delicious and versatile flatbread. It's traditionally cooked in a tandoor, but you can easily make it at home using a skillet or oven. Naan is perfect for soaking up all the flavorful sauces and curries in Indian cuisine. You can also use it as a wrap for your favorite fillings or dip it in some flavorful chutneys.
Chicken curry is a staple dish in Indian cuisine and is loved by people all over the world. This dish is made with tender chicken pieces cooked in a flavorful and aromatic sauce made with a variety of spices and herbs. Every region in India has its own version of chicken curry, each with its own unique blend of spices, making it a versatile and customizable dish.
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Indian Dal Nirvana (Dal Makhani)
Main Ingredients: Dry Lentils, Crushed Tomato, Fresh Ginger, Minced
Dal nirvana, also known as dal makhani, is a rich and creamy lentil dish that is a must-try for any Indian food lover. The dish is made with a combination of lentils, spices, and cream, giving it a delicious and indulgent flavor. It's a popular dish in North Indian cuisine and is often served with rice or naan for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Indian Curry Chicken
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Boneless Skinless Chicken, Onion
Curry chicken is a simple and comforting dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It's made with chicken, onions, tomatoes, and a variety of spices, creating a flavorful and aromatic dish. You can adjust the level of spice according to your preference and serve it with rice or naan for a delicious meal.
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Indian Coconut Lentil Curry
Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Yellow Onion, Garlic, Fresh Grated Ginger
If you're looking for a healthy and flavorful dish, then Indian coconut lentil curry is a great option. This dish is made with lentils, coconut milk, and a variety of spices, creating a creamy and delicious curry. The coconut milk adds a rich and velvety texture to the dish, making it a great choice for vegetarians and vegans.
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North Indian Chicken Curry
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Onions, Plain Yogurt, Cornstarch, Ginger
North Indian chicken curry, also known as chicken masala, is a popular and delicious dish that is loved by people all over the world. It's made with chicken, onions, tomatoes, and a variety of spices, creating a flavorful and aromatic curry. The dish gets its name from the generous use of masala, a blend of spices commonly used in Indian cuisine.
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Indian Restaurant Madras Curry
Main Ingredients: Spice Mix, Madras Curry Powder, Chili Powder, Paprika
If you've ever been to an Indian restaurant, then you've probably tried madras curry. This dish is a spicy and aromatic curry that is enjoyed by those who prefer a bit of heat in their food. It's made with a variety of spices, including cumin, coriander, and chili powder, giving it a bold and delicious flavor. Serve it with some basmati rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Crispy Indian Okra
Main Ingredients: Baby Okra, Fat, Cumin Seeds, Onion, Serrano Pepper
Okra, also known as ladyfingers, is a popular vegetable used in Indian cuisine. It's often cooked in a variety of ways, but one of the most delicious ways to enjoy it is by making crispy Indian okra. The okra is coated in a flavorful and spicy batter and then fried until crispy and golden. It's a perfect side dish or snack and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Fried cabbage is a simple and tasty dish that is popular in many Indian households. It's made with shredded cabbage, onions, tomatoes, and a variety of spices, creating a flavorful and healthy dish. It's a great way to use up leftover cabbage and can be enjoyed as a side dish or as a main course with some rice or naan.
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Indian Dal Soup
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Garlic, Fresh Ginger, Cayenne
Dal soup, also known as lentil soup, is a comforting and nutritious dish that is perfect for a chilly day. It's made with a variety of lentils, vegetables, and spices, creating a hearty and flavorful soup. The dish is a staple in many Indian households and is often served with some naan or rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Dahl, also known as dal, is a staple dish in Indian cuisine and is enjoyed by people all over the world. This dish is made with red lentils, onions, tomatoes, and a variety of spices, creating a flavorful and nutritious dish. It's a great source of protein for vegetarians and is often served with rice or naan for a complete meal.
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Indian Lemon Rice
Main Ingredients: Rice, Green Chilies, Ginger, Peanuts, Turmeric, Salt
Lemon rice is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. It's made with cooked rice, lemon juice, and a variety of spices, creating a tangy and flavorful dish. It's often served as a side dish or as a main course with some roasted vegetables or a protein of your choice.
Butter chicken, or murgh makhani, is a classic Indian dish that is loved by people all over the world. It's made with tender chicken pieces cooked in a creamy and flavorful sauce made with tomatoes, butter, and a variety of spices. The dish is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors and is best served with some naan or rice.
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Indian Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic, Fresh Ginger, Jalapeno, Garam
If you're a fan of butter chicken, then you'll love this variation of the dish. Indian butter chicken with basmati rice is a complete meal that is perfect for any occasion. The chicken is cooked in a rich and creamy sauce, and the basmati rice is cooked with fragrant spices, creating a flavorful and delicious dish. Serve it with some naan or a side of vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Chicken Stock, Tomato Paste, Yellow Curry
If you're looking for an easy and convenient way to make Indian butter chicken, then this slow cooker version is perfect for you. Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it cook for a few hours. The result is tender and flavorful chicken in a rich and creamy sauce. Serve it with some rice or naan for a delicious and hassle-free meal.
Why go gluten-free and nightshade-free?
What is gluten and why avoid it?
Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. While it is safe for most people to consume, those with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or other digestive issues may need to avoid it. Gluten can cause inflammation and damage to the small intestine in people with celiac disease, leading to various health problems. Even for those without celiac disease, reducing gluten intake can have positive effects on digestion and overall health.
What are nightshades and why avoid them?
Nightshades are a group of plants that belong to the Solanaceae family, including tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, and peppers. These plants contain a compound called solanine, which can cause inflammation and worsen symptoms for people with autoimmune diseases and arthritis. Cutting out nightshades from the diet has been found to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in these individuals.
The perfect gluten-free and nightshade-free naan recipe
To make our delicious naan, we will be using gluten-free flour, such as almond or coconut flour, and omitting any nightshade spices like chili powder or cumin. This recipe is also dairy-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
Ingredients:
2 cups gluten-free flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1/4 cup non-dairy milk (almond, coconut, or soy)
1/4 cup plain non-dairy yogurt
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp honey
1 egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh chopped cilantro (optional)
Additional olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the non-dairy milk, non-dairy yogurt, olive oil, honey, egg, garlic, and cilantro (if using).
Add the wet mixture to the dry mixture and mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more non-dairy milk. If it's too wet, add a little more flour.
On a floured surface, knead the dough for a few minutes until smooth.
Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and roll each portion into a ball.
Using a rolling pin, roll out each ball into a 1/4 inch thick circle.
Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium-high heat. Brush the pan with olive oil.
Carefully transfer the rolled out dough to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until lightly browned.
Repeat with the remaining dough balls.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious gluten-free and nightshade-free naan!
Final thoughts
With this simple and easy recipe, you can now enjoy the beloved Indian naan without worrying about gluten or nightshades. This is a great option for those following a gluten-free or nightshade-free diet, as well as anyone looking to add some variety to their meals. So go ahead and give it a try, and let us know how it turns out for you!
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