What always intrigues us about Indian cuisine is the intrinsic relation between taste, spices, and texture. πβ¨ But here is something more interesting: most of the traditional Indian recipes are ‘accidentally’ vegan! Yes, you heard that right! Some of the most loved dishes, which are so often presumed to be non-vegan, happen to be plant-based and deliciously guilt-free. π± π
Embark on this flavourful journey to uncover which of your favourite Indian recipes are ‘accidentally’ vegan. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by how well these classic dishes align with a vegan lifestyle, showing how exceptional taste and ethical choices can go hand in hand. πΏ
Aloo Gobi (Potato and Cauliflower Curry) π₯πΈ

Aloo Gobi, that classic Indian preparation, is a blend of tender potatoes and cauliflower florets with a medley of aromatic spices. πThat’s what makes this dish so magical: It’s pure simplicity, without dairy or meat indulgence. The richness and wholesome flavor all come from a fusion of turmeric, cumin, and coriander. That is another example of how vegan food can be just as hearty and flavoursome as a non-vegan meal. π
Chana Masala (Chickpea Curry) πΆοΈ π²

Chana Masala is one of North India’s all-pervasive staples, from homes to restaurants. It is a thick, stew-like preparation loaded with protein because of the sautΓ©ing of chickpeas in a flavorful, spicy tomato-based gravy. π Yet, as rich as it tastes, Chana Masala is wholly vegan. The fullness of tomatoes and onions, mixed with spices, makes this recipe thick and filling-the quintessential meal that will satiate your hunger completely. π
Pulao (Fragrant Rice Pilaf) π πΏ

Pulao or Pilaf, is rice cooked with a mixture of spices and is usually prepared with vegetables or nuts. Whether it is a simple Peas Pulao or an elaborate Vegetable Pulao, the essence of this dish is completely vegan. The use of cardamom and cloves with vegetables makes it not only a flavourful dish but a healthy addition too. πΎ
Vegetable Samosas π₯

Crispy, deep-fried pastries stuffed with spiced potatoes and peas are a favourite snack right across India. π Although it is usually presumed that samosas are not vegan because of possibly using dairy in the pastry, many recipes are fully vegan. Just make sure the pastry ingredients check out, or go for homemade versions where you control what goes in! π±
Bhindi Masala (Okra Stir-Fry) πΆοΈ π

Bhindi Masala is one of those dishes full of flavor, with okra tender and sautΓ©ed in onions, tomatoes, and spices. π This may, from its look, seem to contain dairy, but it is completely plant-based. The richness in taste and texture comes from the mix of spices and the natural flavour from the okra. π₯
Dosa (Crepes of Rice and Lentil) πΎ π½οΈ

Dosa, the crispy rice and lentil crepe, is a favourite for breakfast in South India. πΏ The fermented rice and lentil batter that goes into its making renders the dish not only vegan but also power-packed with nutrients. It is generally eaten with various types of chutneys and sambar to make a whole meal. π
Rajma (Kidney Bean Curry) π±π

Rajma is a thick, intense preparation of kidney beans in spiced tomato gravy. πΏ It is generally served with rice and is completely plant-based. Due to the beans being the main ingredient, this curry ends up super creamy and, therefore, super healthy and pleasingly filling for vegans. π
Khichdi π²

Khichdi is a comfort, one-pot food classically made with rice, lentils, and spices. πΏ Besides its simplicity-which could easily make it sound like it would include ghee or cream-traditional recipes are actually vegan. The magic in Khichdi lies in the spices and the hearty combination of rice with lentils, making this dish wholesome and absolutely plant-based. πΎ
Rawa Idli π½οΈ

Idlis are a staple of South Indian cuisine, made from semolina or rava and steamed into rice cakes. π Traditionally, Idlis are served with coconut chutney and sambar, but the Idlis themselves are vegan. Their light, spongy texture is obtained through fermentation and proves that vegan doesn’t have to be less tasty. π
Kachori π₯

Kachori is a deep-fried flaky pastry with spicy lentils or peas inside. π It might seem like a food that could contain dairy in the dough, but actually most of the traditional recipes use plant-based ingredients. This turns out to be a crispy, savoury snack that is surprisingly vegan and incredibly satisfying. π±
Dhokla π°

Dhokla is a kind of steamed savory cake prepared with fermented rice and chickpea flour. π It is light, fluffy, and vegan-perfectly loved in Gujarat. The fermentation process gives it that unique tangy flavor, and the addition of spices makes it even more flavorful. πΏ
Aloo Tikki π₯

Aloo Tikki is a very popular street snack in India, consisting of spiced potato patties. πAlthough it is usually served with yogurt and chutneys, the actual patties happen to be vegan. Made from mashed potatoes and spices, these crispy treats are a real surprise for anyone who looks for plant-based snacks. π±
Poha π

Poha is a common breakfast dish made with flattened rice, which is cooked with turmeric, mustard seeds, peanuts, and vegetables. πΏ As comforting it may taste, poha is entirely vegan; it is mostly enjoyed with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of fresh coriander. π
Dal Tadka π²

Dal Tadka is a traditional Indian recipe prepared by stewing split red lentils with spices and finally seasoning them with a mix of fried onions, garlic, and cumin. π Most people think it might include cream or ghee, but actually, traditional recipes are easily vegan, yielding a satisfying and protein-rich meal. πΎ
Vegetable Upma π

Upma is a savory semolina dish cooked with vegetables and spices. πΏ Traditionally a favorite breakfast item, it is indeed vegan, even though some mistakenly think it contains dairy. The combination of spices and vegetables makes it a satisfying and tasty vegan meal. π
Pakoras (Savory Fritters) π₯

Pakoras are savory fritters made by dipping vegetables in a spiced gram flour batter and frying until crispy. π Opt for vegetable pakoras to keep them vegan. They make a delicious snack or appetizer. π±
Popcorn πΏ

Popcorn is that one of those things that just doesn’t seem to come up in the vegan conversations. Well, popcorn is basically just corn kernels popped, so it’s naturally vegan. π½ What’s the catch? The toppings! Sprinkle some salt, nutritional yeast, or vegan butter on your popcorn for a plant-based indulgence that’s just as scrumptious. π
Moong Dal Chilla (Lentil Pancakes) π₯

Moong Dal Chilla is a savory pancake made from moong dal-green gram washed and ground into a paste with a mix of spices and vegetables. πΏ Rich in proteins, vegan-friendly, and quite heavy for a meal-be it breakfast or even light. π½οΈ
Discover the unexpected! πSo, the next time you are in the mood for Indian food, try these dishes that might just surprise you by their accidental vegan status. Whether a seasoned vegan or just a curious explorer of all things plant-based, these recipes confirm that delicious, satisfying, and flavorful meals can be entirely plant-based. Revel in the purest form of adulting joy-food discovery in unexpected places-and savor every bite!
Stay tuned for more interesting and unexpected vegan recipes from around the world. What other yummy surprises might be in store? π±