20 Indian Lentils And Beans Recipe Savor The Mouthwatering Goodness!
Published on: Mar 30, 2024
The rich and diverse flavors of Indian cuisine are known and loved around the world. From spicy curries to savory snacks, each dish is a celebration of bold spices and aromatic ingredients. Lentils and beans are an essential part of Indian cooking, providing a source of protein and adding hearty, wholesome flavors to any meal. In this article, we will explore the world of Indian lentils and beans and share a delicious recipe that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of India.
Main Ingredients: Lentils, Pigeon Peas, Mung Beans, Cloves, Cinnamon
This hearty and healthy Indian Spinach Lentil Stew is packed with flavor and nutrition. Made with tender lentils, fresh spinach, and fragrant Indian spices, this stew is perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party with friends. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and gluten-free, making it a versatile dish that everyone can enjoy.
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Vaghareli Khichdi
Main Ingredients: Rice, Lentil, Cubed Potatoes, Carrot, Beans, Peanuts
Vaghareli Khichdi is a popular Indian comfort food that is perfect for those chilly nights when you want something warm and hearty. This one-pot dish is made with five different types of lentils and a variety of vegetables, making it a nutritious and filling meal. It’s also easy to make and can be customized to your liking by adding your favorite spices and vegetables.
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10-Minute Indian Lentil and Butterbean Curry
Main Ingredients: Black Pepper, Cherry Tomatoes, Curry Powder, Garlic
This quick and easy Indian Lentil and Butterbean Curry is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Made with lentils, butterbeans, and an array of Indian spices, this curry is a delicious and healthy option that will satisfy your cravings for Indian flavors. Plus, it’s ready in just 10 minutes, making it a great option for those nights when you’re short on time.
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Lentil Dosa or Adai – South Indian healthy breakfast
Main Ingredients: Rice, Toor Dal, Urad Dal, Rajma, Peanuts, Moong Dal
This Lentil Dosa or Adai is a popular South Indian breakfast dish that is both healthy and delicious. Made with a combination of lentils, rice, and spices, these savory pancakes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re also vegan-friendly and gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
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Indian Coconut Lentil Curry
Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Yellow Onion, Garlic, Fresh Grated Ginger
This rich and creamy Indian Coconut Lentil Curry is a crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for any occasion. Made with a blend of lentils, coconut milk, and aromatic spices, this curry is bursting with flavor and can be enjoyed with rice, naan, or any other accompaniment of your choice. It’s also vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free, making it a versatile and satisfying meal.
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{Recipe} Panchmel Dal | Indian Style Five Lentil Curry
Main Ingredients: Lentils, Black Beans, Tomato Puree, Ginger Garlic
This Panchmel Dal, also known as Indian Style Five Lentil Curry, is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for cold winter nights. Made with a variety of five different types of lentils, this curry is packed with protein and flavor. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover lentils you may have in your pantry.
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Indian Style Mixed Veggies stir fry/ Poriyal/ Thoran
Main Ingredients: Mustard Seeds, Black Gram, Asafetida, Onion, Green
This Indian Style Mixed Veggies Stir Fry, also known as Poriyal or Thoran, is a delicious and healthy way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Made with a variety of colorful veggies and fragrant Indian spices, this dish is a flavorful and versatile side dish that goes well with any main course. It’s also vegan-friendly and can be customized with your favorite veggies.
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Semiya Upma | Vermicelli Upma | South Indian Breakfasts
Main Ingredients: Vermicelli, Carrot, Beans, Onion, Green Chilli, Oil
Semiya Upma, also known as Vermicelli Upma, is a popular South Indian breakfast dish that is quick, easy, and delicious. Made with vermicelli, lentils, and spices, this dish is a great alternative to traditional upma and is perfect for a busy morning when you want a hot and comforting breakfast. It’s also vegan-friendly and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
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Creamy Indian Lentils (Dal Tadka)
Main Ingredients: Lentils, Chopped Onion, Chopped Tomatoes, Ginger
This creamy and flavorful Indian Lentils, also known as Dal Tadka, is a staple in many Indian households. Made with lentils, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, this dish is a comforting and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed with rice, naan, or any other accompaniment of your choice. It’s also vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
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Dal Makhani (Indian Lentils)
Main Ingredients: Lentils, Kidney Beans, Water, Salt, Vegetable Oil
Dal Makhani, also known as Indian Lentils, is a popular dish that originated in the Punjab region of India. Made with a combination of black lentils and kidney beans, this dish is slow-cooked with a variety of spices and finished off with a touch of cream for a rich and creamy texture. It’s a vegetarian-friendly dish that is perfect for a special occasion or when you want to impress your guests.
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Lemon Rice – Indian Rice
Main Ingredients: Rice, Lemon Juice, Cashewnuts, Mustard Seeds, Bengal
This Lemon Rice, also known as Indian Rice, is a simple and flavorful dish that is perfect for those days when you want something quick and easy. Made with cooked rice, lemon juice, and a blend of spices, this dish is tangy, fragrant, and can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course. It’s also vegan-friendly and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
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Vegan Lentil Curry – Slow Cooked
Main Ingredients: Lentils, Pinto Beans, Potatoes, Purple Potatoes, Red
This Vegan Lentil Curry is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for those busy days when you want a hot and comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Made with lentils, vegetables, and a variety of Indian spices, this curry is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed with rice, naan, or any other accompaniment of your choice.
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Chana Masala - Chickpeas Curry, How to make Chana...
Main Ingredients: Kabuli Chana, Baking Soda, Salt, Water, Olive Oil
This Chana Masala, also known as Chickpea Curry, is a popular Indian dish that is made with a combination of chickpeas, tomatoes, and fragrant spices. It’s a flavorful and hearty dish that can be enjoyed with rice, naan, or any other accompaniment of your choice. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
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Lentil Curry
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Diced Yellow Onion, Carrot, Minced
This Lentil Curry is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for those nights when you want a quick and easy meal. Made with a blend of lentils, vegetables, and spices, this curry is packed with flavor and can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. It’s also vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free, making it a great option for any occasion.
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Easy Indian Curry Lentil Soup with Turmeric and Cumin
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Yellow Onion, Carrots, Celery, Garlic
This Easy Indian Curry Lentil Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cold winter night. Made with lentils, vegetables, and a blend of Indian spices, this soup is packed with flavor and can be customized to your liking by adding your favorite vegetables. It’s also vegan-friendly and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
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Indian Mixed Beans Curry
Main Ingredients: Black Lentil, Rajma, Chole, Kale, Dried Black Eyed
This Indian Mixed Beans Curry is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Made with a variety of beans, vegetables, and spices, this curry is packed with protein and flavor. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover beans you may have in your pantry. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
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South Indian Coconut Chickpea Curry (Spicy and Vegan)
Main Ingredients: Dried White Chickpeas, Water, Salt, Grated Coconut
This South Indian Coconut Chickpea Curry is a spicy and flavorful dish that is perfect for those days when you want something bold and full of flavor. Made with chickpeas, coconut milk, and a blend of spices, this curry is creamy, satisfying, and can be enjoyed with rice, naan, or any other accompaniment of your choice. It’s also vegan-friendly and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
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Dal Makhani
Main Ingredients: Chana Dal, Tomatoes, Plain Low Fat Yogurt, Garam
Dal Makhani is a classic Indian dish that is loved by many for its rich and creamy texture and flavorful taste. Made with a combination of black lentils and kidney beans, this dish is slow-cooked with a variety of spices and finished off with a touch of cream for a decadent and indulgent meal. It’s perfect for a special occasion or when you want to treat yourself to something delicious.
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Vegan Indian Dal Chili
Main Ingredients: Urad Dal, Kidney Beans, Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic
This Vegan Indian Dal Chili is a unique and delicious twist on traditional chili. Made with a combination of lentils, beans, and a variety of Indian spices, this dish is packed with protein and flavor. It’s also a great way to introduce Indian flavors into your meals and can be enjoyed with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, cilantro, or vegan cheese.
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DAHL MAKHANI (NO CREAM!)
Main Ingredients: Lentils, Red Kidney Beans, Chili Powder, Ginger, Water
This creamy and delicious Dahl Makhani is a vegan-friendly and healthier version of the classic Indian dish. Made with black lentils, kidney beans, and a blend of spices, this dish is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a rich and flavorful curry that is perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Discovering the Versatility of Indian Lentils and Beans
The Health Benefits of Lentils and Beans
Indian lentils and beans are not only delicious, but they are also incredibly nutritious. These legumes are a great source of plant-based protein, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. They are also packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, potassium, and folate. Additionally, lentils and beans are high in fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and aid in digestion. The health benefits of incorporating lentils and beans into your diet are endless, making them a staple in many Indian households.
The Variety of Lentils and Beans Used in Indian Cooking
One of the most exciting aspects of Indian lentils and beans is the incredible variety available. From creamy yellow lentils to hearty black beans, each type has its unique flavor and texture. Some commonly used lentils and beans in Indian cooking include chana dal, masoor dal, rajma, and chickpeas. These legumes can be found in most grocery stores and are relatively inexpensive, making them an accessible and budget-friendly ingredient for any home cook.
The Role of Lentils and Beans in Indian Cuisine
Lentils and beans play a crucial role in Indian cuisine, both in traditional and modern dishes. In traditional Indian cooking, lentils and beans are often used to create dal, a thick and flavorful stew-like dish that is typically served with rice or flatbread. In modern Indian cuisine, lentils and beans are also used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, soups, and even desserts. Their versatility makes them a popular ingredient in Indian kitchens, and their rich, earthy flavors add depth to any dish.
A Delicious Indian Lentil and Bean Recipe
Now that you have learned about the health benefits and variety of Indian lentils and beans, it's time to put your newfound knowledge into action with a delicious recipe. Below is a simple and flavorful recipe for chana masala, a popular North Indian dish made with chickpeas and warm spices.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup water
- 1 tomato, chopped
- Cilantro, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and cook until they start to sizzle.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the pot and cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the coriander powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, paprika, and salt to the pot and stir to combine.
4. Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas and add them to the pot, along with 1 cup of water.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the chickpeas are tender.
6. Add the chopped tomato to the pot and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Serve the chana masala over rice or with flatbread, and garnish with chopped cilantro.
In conclusion, Indian lentils and beans are a versatile and nutritious addition to any meal. Whether you are a fan of traditional Indian dishes or looking for ways to incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet, lentils and beans are a must-try ingredient. So why not spice up your next meal with a delicious Indian lentil and bean recipe? Your taste buds will thank you.