Every product is independently reviewed and selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
From the bustling spice markets of Mumbai to the coconut groves of Kerala, Indian cuisine offers a vibrant tapestry of flavors—and it’s incredibly vegan-friendly.
With its deep reliance on lentils, legumes, vegetables, and spices, Indian cooking naturally lends itself to plant-based eating without compromising on taste or tradition.
Whether you’re craving the creamy comfort of dal, the crunch of pakoras, or the aromatic warmth of biryani, this collection of 27+ vegan Indian recipes brings the best of India to your kitchen.
You’ll discover a mix of quick weeknight meals, festive dishes, and regional favorites that cater to both seasoned spice lovers and those just starting their plant-based journey.
Get ready to awaken your senses with dishes that are bold in flavor, rich in culture, and completely dairy- and meat-free.
27+ Flavorful Vegan Indian Recipes That Are Packed with Flavor
With this collection of 27+ vegan Indian recipes, you now have everything you need to create vibrant, flavorful meals inspired by one of the world’s most spice-rich cuisines.
Each dish tells a story—from the earthy aroma of cumin in dal to the bright zing of mint chutney—and invites you to explore plant-based eating in the most delicious way.
Whether you’re cooking for comfort or celebration, these recipes will keep your plate exciting and your meals deeply satisfying.
Chana Masala
Warm, spicy, and deeply satisfying, Chana Masala is a beloved North Indian dish that transforms humble chickpeas into a rich, aromatic curry.
Simmered in a tomato-based sauce with garlic, ginger, and garam masala, it fills the kitchen with bold, comforting fragrance.
The texture is thick and hearty, with each chickpea soaking up the vibrant blend of spices.
Serve it with rice, roti, or as a standalone meal—it’s versatile, protein-packed, and soul-warming.
Aloo Gobi
Fragrant and full of color, Aloo Gobi is a classic dry curry made from potatoes and cauliflower tossed in turmeric, cumin, and coriander.
The vegetables are pan-roasted until golden and tender, releasing a deliciously earthy aroma that invites you in.
Each bite delivers a gentle heat and warm spice, balanced with the softness of potatoes and the slight crunch of cauliflower.
Perfect as a main or a flavorful side, this dish fits seamlessly into any Indian-inspired meal.
Baingan Bharta
Smoky, silky, and utterly comforting, Baingan Bharta is made by roasting eggplant until it’s charred and tender, then mashing it with onions, tomatoes, and spices.
The result is a flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth dish with layers of depth and a hint of heat.
The smokiness of the eggplant pairs beautifully with the bright acidity of tomatoes and the subtle sweetness of sautéed onions.
Serve it with warm chapati or basmati rice for a satisfying and aromatic vegan delight.
Vegan Palak Paneer
Creamy, vibrant, and deeply nourishing, Vegan Palak Paneer swaps dairy with tofu to recreate a beloved spinach-based classic.
The puréed spinach is seasoned with garlic, ginger, and warming spices, resulting in a lush green curry that’s both comforting and invigorating.
The tofu absorbs the flavors beautifully, adding protein and texture to the velvety sauce.
Whether served with naan or jeera rice, it’s a flavorful way to enjoy greens with a rich, indulgent twist.
Tofu Tikka Masala
Bold, creamy, and packed with spice, Tofu Tikka Masala delivers restaurant-level flavor with a plant-based twist.
Marinated tofu cubes are grilled or baked until golden, then simmered in a rich tomato-cashew sauce that’s silky and spiced to perfection.
The dish offers a satisfying mix of textures—crispy tofu, creamy sauce, and just the right amount of heat.
It shines as a standalone curry or as part of a vibrant vegan thali.
Vegetable Biryani
Aromatic, colorful, and irresistibly fragrant, Vegetable Biryani is a one-pot wonder layered with spiced rice and tender mixed vegetables.
Infused with saffron, cinnamon, and cardamom, each forkful carries a burst of flavor and aroma that lingers long after the meal.
The basmati rice stays fluffy and light, while the vegetables add substance and texture in every bite.
Whether paired with vegan raita or enjoyed on its own, it’s a festive dish that brings warmth to any table.
Masoor Dal
Hearty, warming, and full of comfort, Masoor Dal is a red lentil curry that cooks quickly and delivers rich flavor with minimal effort.
Simmered with turmeric, cumin, and garlic, it fills the kitchen with earthy, spiced aromas that evoke home-cooked tradition.
The lentils break down into a silky, creamy texture that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying.
Serve it with basmati rice or scoop it up with roti—it’s a protein-packed staple that’s perfect any day of the week.
Bhindi Masala
Vibrant, slightly crisp, and full of character, Bhindi Masala is a sautéed okra dish that’s bursting with tangy, spiced flavor.
Tossed with onions, tomatoes, and a medley of Indian spices, each bite offers a tender crunch with zesty undertones.
It’s a brilliant way to enjoy okra without the sliminess, thanks to the dry-style preparation.
Serve it alongside dal, rice, or flatbread for a colorful, satisfying addition to any vegan meal.
Rajma
Rich, hearty, and deeply flavorful, Rajma is a comforting red kidney bean curry slow-cooked in a tomato-onion gravy.
With warm notes of garam masala, ginger, and chili, this dish fills the senses with bold, homey aromas.
The beans are tender and creamy, soaking in all the spices for a dish that feels both rustic and luxurious.
Enjoy it with steamed rice or warm paratha—it’s a North Indian classic that never disappoints.
Cabbage Thoran
Light, fragrant, and subtly spiced, Cabbage Thoran is a South Indian stir-fry that turns shredded cabbage into a vibrant side dish.
Tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and coconut, it delivers a fresh crunch and delicate sweetness in every bite.
The aroma of curry leaves sizzling in oil gives it a signature Kerala flair that’s instantly recognizable.
Perfect as a side with dal and rice, or served in wraps for a fusion twist.
Vegan Korma
Creamy, mild, and luxuriously spiced, Vegan Korma is a rich curry made with cashew cream, coconut milk, and a medley of tender vegetables.
Each bite offers a silky, subtly sweet sauce infused with cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves for an aromatic finish.
The texture is indulgent yet light, with a melt-in-your-mouth quality that complements rice or naan beautifully.
Ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this dish is comfort in a bowl.
Tindora Fry
Crispy, tangy, and perfectly spiced, Tindora Fry transforms ivy gourd into a crunchy, addictive side that’s both simple and bold.
Sautéed with mustard seeds, turmeric, and chilies, it offers a satisfying texture with bursts of heat and earthy flavor.
The golden edges and tender interior make it a favorite on South Indian-style lunch plates.
Pair it with sambar, rasam, or just plain rice—it’s a unique addition to any vegan spread.
Tofu Bhurji
Savory, spiced, and incredibly satisfying, Tofu Bhurji is a vegan twist on the beloved Indian scrambled egg dish.
Crumbled tofu is sautéed with onions, tomatoes, turmeric, and green chilies, creating a vibrant, golden medley with bold aroma.
The texture is soft yet slightly crisp at the edges, offering warmth and depth in every forkful.
Perfect on toast, rolled in a wrap, or served alongside paratha for a protein-rich meal at any time of day.
Vegan Samosa
Crispy, golden, and bursting with spiced potatoes and peas, the Vegan Samosa is a street food favorite made plant-based.
Encased in flaky pastry, the filling is infused with cumin, coriander, and amchur for a perfect balance of heat and tang.
Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by the soft, savory warmth of the spiced interior.
Serve with mint chutney or tamarind sauce for an irresistible appetizer or teatime snack.
Lauki Kofta
Delicate, spiced, and richly comforting, Lauki Kofta features bottle gourd dumplings simmered in a creamy tomato-based gravy.
The koftas are lightly fried until golden, then soaked in a sauce that’s smooth, aromatic, and full of traditional North Indian flavors.
The texture is soft and luxurious, making it feel both light and indulgent.
Perfect with jeera rice or flatbreads, this dish is a hidden gem of Indian vegan cuisine.
Vegan Butter Tofu
Creamy, rich, and absolutely indulgent, Vegan Butter Tofu offers all the flavor of classic butter chicken without any dairy or meat.
Tofu cubes are simmered in a luscious tomato-cashew gravy, spiced with fenugreek, garam masala, and a hint of chili.
It’s smooth, slightly sweet, and deeply aromatic—perfect for scooping up with naan.
Whether served at a dinner party or cozy night in, it’s a comforting favorite with wide appeal.
Cabbage Pakora
Crispy, spicy, and totally addictive, Cabbage Pakora turns shredded cabbage into golden fritters with a satisfying crunch.
Chickpea flour binds the mixture with green chilies, cumin, and herbs, creating flavorful bites that are both gluten-free and delicious.
Fried until crisp and aromatic, they make a perfect snack or appetizer with masala chai.
Serve with green chutney for a tangy, vibrant contrast to the warm, crunchy pakoras.
Moong Dal Chilla
Light, savory, and protein-packed, Moong Dal Chilla is an Indian-style pancake made from blended yellow lentils and aromatic spices.
Crisped on the outside and soft on the inside, these chillas are infused with ginger, chilies, and fresh herbs.
They offer a subtle nuttiness and a touch of heat, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a satisfying snack.
Pair them with vegan yogurt, chutney, or roll them up with veggies for a wholesome, flavorful meal.
Tofu Curry
Creamy, bold, and beautifully spiced, Tofu Curry brings together silky tofu and a luscious tomato-onion gravy infused with Indian masalas.
The tofu soaks in the flavors of cumin, ginger, and garam masala, resulting in a deeply satisfying, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Rich and vibrant, the curry has a warming aroma and a subtle heat that builds with every bite.
Serve it with rice, roti, or naan for a versatile, protein-packed main course that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Methi Thepla
Earthy, aromatic, and gently spiced, Methi Thepla is a Gujarati flatbread made with fenugreek leaves and whole wheat flour.
Its unique flavor comes from fresh herbs and warming spices like turmeric and ajwain, making each bite fragrant and full of depth.
Soft yet slightly crisp when pan-fried, it pairs wonderfully with chutney or vegan yogurt.
It’s travel-friendly, meal-prep friendly, and equally enjoyable hot or at room temperature.
Tindora Sabzi
Crunchy, tangy, and subtly spicy, Tindora Sabzi is a stir-fried ivy gourd dish that brings out the best in this unique vegetable.
Seasoned with mustard seeds, turmeric, and green chilies, it has a lively flavor and irresistible texture.
The tindora caramelizes slightly when cooked, offering a contrast between crisp edges and a tender interior.
Serve it as a side dish or enjoy it with rice and dal for a comforting, nutrient-rich meal.
Vegan Kitchari
Nourishing, soothing, and lightly spiced, Vegan Kitchari is a one-pot wonder made with lentils, rice, and warming spices.
The mix of cumin, ginger, and turmeric gives it a healing, aromatic quality that’s both gentle and flavorful.
Creamy and soft in texture, it’s perfect for digestive rest days or cozy dinners.
Top with ghee alternatives or crunchy seeds for added richness and texture.
Carrot Halwa
Sweet, rich, and delicately spiced, Carrot Halwa is a traditional dessert that can be made entirely vegan without losing its charm.
Grated carrots are slow-cooked in plant-based milk with cardamom, nuts, and a touch of maple or coconut sugar.
The result is a warm, aromatic pudding with a soft yet slightly chewy texture and irresistible fragrance.
Serve it warm for a comforting end to a vegan Indian meal, or chill it for a firmer, fudgy bite.
Drumstick Sambar
Tangy, spicy, and full of umami, Drumstick Sambar is a South Indian lentil stew that stars the uniquely textured moringa pods.
Simmered in a tamarind base with toor dal, mustard seeds, and curry leaves, it fills the air with bold, comforting aromas.
The drumsticks add a fibrous, juicy bite that soaks in the vibrant, sour-spicy broth beautifully.
Enjoy it with steamed rice or idli for a hearty, nourishing vegan meal packed with flavor and tradition.
Vegan Malai Kofta
Rich, indulgent, and restaurant-worthy, Vegan Malai Kofta features tender vegetable balls in a luxurious, spiced cashew-tomato gravy.
The koftas are crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with warm Indian spices and fresh herbs.
The creamy sauce offers subtle sweetness balanced with earthy cumin and aromatic cardamom.
Serve it with naan or pulao for an elegant main course that’s both comforting and impressive.
Cucumber Raita
Cool, creamy, and lightly spiced, Cucumber Raita is a refreshing plant-based side that brings balance to any spicy Indian meal.
Made with dairy-free yogurt, grated cucumber, cumin, and fresh mint, it offers a crisp texture and soothing finish.
Each spoonful is light, tangy, and slightly herby—a perfect contrast to bold curries and rich biryanis.
Whether served as a dip or a side, it’s a simple yet essential part of any vegan Indian spread.
Conclusion
Going vegan doesn’t mean giving up variety or tradition—especially when Indian cuisine is on the table.
These 27+ vegan Indian recipes offer a flavorful, satisfying gateway into plant-based living, one curry or pakora at a time.
Bookmark your favorites, experiment with new spices, and don’t be afraid to make these dishes your own.
The plant-powered journey is just beginning—and it’s absolutely delicious.
