Curries are an important part of every Indian main course. Be it with fluffy rice, flaky flatbreads or crispy dosas, curries are the flavourful heart of the meal.
Kadala Curry, the robust chickpea stew, is a staple in Kerala. Malai Kofta bursts with flavours as you savour the dumplings bathed in the rich creamy sauce.
So, let’s have a taste of the veg curries that carry the flavours of India.
Arachivita Sambar
It is a no-brainer that Sambar made it to the list of Indian vegetarian curries you have to try.
But, Arachivita Sambar is something really special, a little different than the other Sambar variations you know. And well, it deserves your attention.
The name ‘Arachivitta’ which translates to ‘ground’ reveals the secret behind this scrumptious curry.
The recipe of this Sambar follows the traditional method of using stone ground spices to create this dish. It allows you to take a peek into the authentic flavours of South India.
The classic combination of lentils, drumsticks and onions come together. And, the spice mix heightens the aroma and taste, awakening your senses with each mouthful.
Oh, pair this Arachivita Sambar with rice, dosa or idli and you might want to have them every single day.
Kadala Curry
Puttu served with Kadala Curry has a huge fan base. This combination occupies a notable place in Kerala’s food culture.
These two constantly grace the dining tables of every household across the state. The Kadala Curry also goes incredibly well with idiyappam (soft string hoppers) and appam.
So basically, Kadala Curry is a lip-smacking dish featuring black chickpeas that are simmered with onions, roasted coconut and a unique spice blend.
A great source of plant-based protein, this chickpea curry is a healthy and flavourful choice for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Moreover, it is highly suitable for vegan diets. So, in a single word… must try!
Dal Tadka
Dal Tadka is an everyday lentil curry. The ‘tadka’ tempering method gives the distinct taste that belongs solely to this curry.
A specific mix of spices sizzles in ghee (clarified butter) or oil, infusing the curry with an irresistible fragrance and flavour.
Ah, Dal Tadka is a hearty curry that warms your soul inside out. If possible, pause the daily rush and relish in the simple pleasure of eating Dal Tadka with rice, roti or butter naan.
It might remind you of the cherished memories of your home, of the childhood meals shared with your family and maybe, a bittersweet longing for a time gone by.
Manathakkali Vathal
Originating in Tamil Nadu, Manathakkali Vathal, also fondly known as Vathal Kulambu, is a robust gravy steeped in tradition and love.
This tangy and spicy vegetarian curry showcases manathakkali vathal, the sun-dried nightshade berries, as its key ingredient. It takes on numerous forms depending on the choice of the vathal.
The base of the curry is from the splash of tamarind extract, which instils its signature tang. The mouth-watering taste of the gravy comes from the assorted spices and the berry.
A plate of steamed rice topped with a ladleful of finger-licking good vathal kulambu is a match made for heaven.
Paneer Butter Masala
The pillowy soft paneer (cottage cheese) cubes are bathed in a rich gravy of tomatoes and aromatics.
The base gravy swirled with fresh cream and butter can make your heart swoon. Well, that’s Paneer Butter Masala for you!
Paneer butter masala is not a fiery curry that will set your tastebuds on fire, as you might expect when you see the bright orangish-red colour.
But, it is mildly spiced and boasts a subtle sweetness. In fact, it brings in layers of flavours that are wonderfully nuanced, without overwhelming you.
Interestingly, this luscious delectable curry provides a vegetarian spin on the famed Butter Chicken.
The curry complements a variety of Indian flatbreads: naan, roti, chapati and paratha. You can enjoy it with fluffy Basmati rice or Jeera rice as well.
Bagara Baingan
A popular Nawabi dish from Hyderabad’s culinary space is Bagara Baingan. Unlike most Indian curries, this dish breaks away from the usual tomato-based gravy.
The tender eggplants, lightly cooked in oil, are marinated in a scrumptious sauce enriched with peanuts, sesame seeds and coconut.
Tasting this gravy is a beautiful exploration of different notes of flavours. The eggplants have their moment to shine and shine they will!
Choose your favourite flatbreads or rice to savour this creation. And, the next time you indulge in Hyderabadi Biryani, don’t forget Bagara Baingan. Trust us, you will be amazed!
Malai Kofta
The enticing scent, sumptuous taste and diverse textures are all packed in a single dish – Malai Kofta.
It promises to provide a feast for your senses throughout the entire dining experience. This dish, you know, is a beloved part of many feasts and celebrations.
The creamy orange gravy studded with fried golden balls is truly a sight to behold. The Kofta in this dish is crafted from a blend of mashed potatoes and paneer.
They are then submerged in a slow simmered aromatic and creamy cashew sauce to make this dish.
When you bite on the Kofta, it starts with a satisfying crunch, and then pleasantly surprises you with a melt-in-your-mouth softness.
Scoop the luscious gravy with naan or roti to soak the flavours and discover a new level of appreciation for the art of Indian cooking.
Aloo Gobi
Aloo Gobi, staying true to its name, is made around the delicious duo of potatoes (aloo) and cauliflower (gobi).
This familiar Indian curry, Aloo Gobi, is both simple and comforting. It proves that everyday ingredients can be the foundation of a delicious dish.
The curry lets the natural flavours of the veggies be the stars. And, the spices bring a more pronounced depth of flavour. Taste it once and you will realise it is anything but ordinary.
This gravy finds its perfect companions in rice, soft rotis, chapatis or parathas. Being vegan and gluten-free, Aloo Gobi also caters to various dietary needs. Well, it is quite easy to see why Aloo Gobi is loved.
Ah, these discussions are making us crave the curries, like right now. We imagine you feel the same way.
If so, head over to The Madras Diaries. We have got these delectable vegetarian curries and even more to tantalise your taste buds. See you there!
