When it comes to cooking Indian dishes, many people think that they require hours of prep work and simmering time. However, with the help of modern appliances like the Instant Pot, you can create delicious and authentic Indian recipes in a fraction of the time. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 flavorful Instant Pot Indian recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.
From classic dishes like Butter Chicken and Chana Masala to hearty vegetable curries and comforting rice bowls, these recipes will take your taste buds on a culinary journey across India. And with the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking capabilities, you can cook complex spices and flavors in a matter of minutes, making it easy to get dinner on the table quickly.
In this article, we’ll be highlighting some of the most popular and beloved Indian dishes that are now possible to make at home using your Instant Pot. From comforting staples like Dal Tadka and Vegetable Biryani to rich and creamy curries like Palak Paneer and Rajma Masala, there’s something for everyone in this list.
Butter Chicken
A classic Indian dish that combines the rich flavors of butter, spices, and tender chicken, Butter Chicken is a crowd-pleaser. This recipe yields a creamy, slightly sweet, and savory sauce to coat juicy chicken pieces.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 cup tomato puree
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
3. Add garlic, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
5. Add tomato puree, chicken broth, honey, and salt. Stir to combine.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Chana Masala
This popular vegetarian dish from North India is a staple in many households. Chana Masala, which translates to “chickpea curry,” is made with chickpeas cooked in a rich and aromatic tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) of chickpeas
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 tablespoon of ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they are lightly browned (about 5 minutes).
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric powder. Cook for another minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes and chickpeas. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dal Tadka
Dal Tadka is a classic Indian recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This comforting lentil stew is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the lentils and 4 cups of water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegetable Biryani
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish from South Asia, Vegetable Biryani is a one-pot wonder that combines the richness of basmati rice with the freshness of mixed vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, cauliflower)
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. Add the soaked rice to the saucepan and stir well to combine with the vegetable mixture.
6. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Palak Paneer
Palak Paneer: A Creamy Spinach Curry with Indian Cheese
Palak Paneer is a popular Indian dish that combines the richness of spinach puree with the creaminess of paneer (Indian cheese) and spices. This recipe is a simplified version of the classic dish, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup water
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
2. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and sauté until the onions are translucent.
3. Add spinach leaves, paneer cubes, garam masala powder, cinnamon powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Add water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Rajma Masala
Rajma masala is a popular North Indian dish made with black beans, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices. This flavorful curry is often served with basmati rice or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black beans (rajma), soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt, to taste
– Cooking oil or ghee, for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they start browning.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the soaked black beans, diced tomatoes, and salt. Mix well.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
6. Serve hot with basmati rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Aloo Gobi
Aloo Gobi is a popular vegetarian dish from North India that combines the flavors of potatoes, cauliflower, and aromatic spices. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they are translucent.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add potatoes and cauliflower. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Tikka Masala
Experience the rich flavors of India with this classic recipe for Chicken Tikka Masala. Marinated chicken cooked to perfection and smothered in a creamy, spicy tomato sauce will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Heavy cream or half-and-half, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add chicken; marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Remove chicken from marinade; cook in oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Cook onion and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Serve chicken with sauce spooned over the top. Optional: stir in heavy cream or half-and-half for added richness.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes.
Beef Keema
Savor the flavors of India with this hearty beef keema recipe, packed with aromatic spices and tender beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced (optional)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, ginger paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. If using potatoes, add them to the pan and cook until they’re tender.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lamb Rogan Josh
Experience the rich flavors of Kashmir with this popular lamb dish, Rogan Josh. This slow-cooked recipe is a staple of Kashmiri cuisine, featuring tender lamb in a rich and aromatic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb or beef broth
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until golden brown, about 8 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lamb pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
5. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Egg Curry
A flavorful and comforting Indian-inspired dish, this Egg Curry is a perfect blend of spices, eggs, and creamy coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs, beaten
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they start browning (3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until they are cooked through (about 5 minutes).
5. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the curry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice, naan, or roti.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Malai Kofta
Experience the rich flavors of North Indian cuisine with this popular vegetarian recipe, Malai Kofta. These creamy vegetable dumplings are a delightful twist on traditional koftas, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (cauliflower, carrots, potatoes)
– 1/2 cup paneer (Indian cheese), crumbled
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine vegetables, paneer, breadcrumbs, egg, lemon juice, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. Shape into small dumplings and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add heavy cream and stir until combined.
6. Serve the Malai Kofta hot with the creamy sauce and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baingan Bharta
A classic Indian side dish made by roasting eggplants and blending them with aromatic spices, onions, and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the eggplants for 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender and charred.
4. Let the eggplants cool slightly, then scoop out the flesh and transfer it to a blender or food processor.
5. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt to the blender.
6. Blend the mixture until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
7. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat and add the Baingan Bharta. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Punjabi Kadhi
A classic North Indian dish, Punjabi Kadhi is a flavorful yogurt-based curry that’s perfect for a comforting meal or as an accompaniment to rice and roti. With its tangy taste and creamy texture, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons gram flour (besan)
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, gram flour, ginger paste, cumin seeds, and turmeric powder.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Add the yogurt mixture and cook, stirring constantly, until it thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice, roti, or naan.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Masoor Dal
A classic North Indian lentil dish, Masoor Dal is a comforting and flavorful accompaniment to rice, roti, or naan.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the soaked lentils and 4 cups of water to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Goan Fish Curry
Experience the bold flavors of Goa with this classic fish curry recipe, made with tender fish, aromatic spices, and a hint of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish (kingfish or tilapia work well), cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons tomato puree
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until golden.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add fish pieces and cook until they turn white.
4. Add coconut milk, tomato puree, and salt. Stir well.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Garnish with cilantro and serve with steaming rice.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pav Bhaji
Experience the vibrant flavors of India with this classic street food dish, Pav Bhaji! A flavorful and spicy mashed vegetable curry served with soft, buttery pav (bread).
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, potatoes)
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4-6 pav bread buns
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
2. Add onions and cook until they start browning.
3. Add garlic, tomato, mixed vegetables, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Mash the mixture with a potato masher or the back of a spoon to desired consistency.
5. Butter each pav bread bun half and place them on top of the bhaji (mashed vegetable curry).
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sambar
Sambar is a popular lentil-based vegetable stew from Southern India, often served with dosas, idlis, and vadas. This recipe yields a flavorful and nutritious sambar that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red gram (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon sambar powder (or substitute with a combination of coriander powder, cumin powder, and red chili powder)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dal and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the tomato, turmeric powder, sambar powder, and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Add the soaked dal and 2 cups of water to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the dal is cooked.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Jeera Rice
A flavorful and aromatic Indian-style rice dish, Jeera Rice is a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon jeera (cumin seeds)
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the jeera seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the drained rice to the saucepan and stir well to combine with the jeera and oil.
4. Pour in 2 cups of water and add salt, if desired.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Gajar Halwa
Gajar Halwa, a popular Indian dessert, is a creamy and sweet treat made with grated carrots, milk, and spices. This recipe is a classic version of this beloved dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Grate the carrots and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the grated carrots and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the milk, sugar, cardamom powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the halwa thickens and the carrots are very tender.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped nuts or dried fruit if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of India with these 20 delicious Instant Pot recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic dishes like Butter Chicken and Chana Masala to comforting Vegetable Biryani and hearty Palak Paneer, there’s something for everyone. Explore a range of cuisines, from North Indian favorites like Chicken Tikka Masala and Beef Keema, to South Indian staples like Sambar and Jeera Rice. These easy-to-make recipes are sure to become new family favorites. Try them out tonight!
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