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Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating love, and what better way to do so than by sharing a delicious, home-cooked meal with your special someone?
If you’re looking to spice up your romantic dinner, why not try something a little different this year?
Indian cuisine, with its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and diverse dishes, offers an abundance of options to create a memorable and unique Valentine’s Day feast.
From indulgent curries to delicate sweets, Indian food brings both warmth and luxury to the table.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a decadent dessert, or something light to start the evening, we’ve rounded up 45+ Valentine’s Day Indian recipes to help you create the perfect meal for your loved one.
These recipes combine traditional Indian flavors with the romance of the season, ensuring your celebration is filled with love and deliciousness.
45+ Traditional Valentine’s Day Indian Recipes for a Perfect Dinner
This Valentine’s Day, skip the ordinary and treat your loved one to a flavorful journey with Indian cuisine.
Whether you choose a rich, creamy curry, a tangy salad, or a sweet dessert, Indian food offers the perfect way to celebrate love.
The blend of aromatic spices and fresh ingredients will make your meal truly memorable.
These 45+ Valentine’s Day Indian recipes are designed to suit every palate and every romantic occasion, giving you the chance to create a special experience for your partner.
After all, nothing says “I love you” like a home-cooked meal that is as flavorful and unique as your relationship.
Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)
Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. This Indian classic features tender chicken cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce with a delicate blend of spices. The smooth, velvety sauce is a perfect complement to the juicy chicken, making it a dish loved by all. With its luxurious texture and delicious taste, this dish will undoubtedly impress your Valentine and create a memorable meal.
Ingredients:
- 500g boneless chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken cubes with ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, yogurt, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a pan over medium heat, add butter, and cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In the same pan, add a bit more butter and sauté onions until soft. Add crushed tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Make the curry: Add the cooked chicken back into the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and honey, simmering the mixture for another 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves over the dish for an added touch of flavor and color.
Butter Chicken is a dish that captures the essence of rich Indian flavors and is perfect for sharing on Valentine’s Day. The tender chicken paired with the creamy sauce creates an indulgent and comforting meal, making it a wonderful way to show affection and love. Serve it with naan or steamed basmati rice to complete the experience and make your celebration extra special.
Paneer Tikka
Paneer Tikka is a delightful vegetarian appetizer that is bursting with flavor, making it an excellent choice for a Valentine’s Day celebration. This dish features marinated paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cubes that are grilled to perfection, giving them a smoky flavor and a charred texture. With a blend of spices, yogurt, and fresh herbs, Paneer Tikka is a light yet satisfying dish that can be enjoyed with a mint chutney on the side.
Ingredients:
- 250g paneer, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Marinate the paneer: In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, lemon juice, salt, and olive oil. Add the paneer cubes and coat them well with the marinade. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill the paneer: Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill. Thread the marinated paneer cubes onto skewers. Grill the paneer for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the paneer is golden brown and has grill marks.
- Garnish: Once cooked, remove the paneer from the skewers and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with a side of mint chutney.
Paneer Tikka is a perfect appetizer for a romantic meal. The smoky grilled flavor combined with the aromatic spices and creamy texture of paneer creates an irresistible dish. The bright and fresh coriander garnish and mint chutney add a refreshing twist. This dish is an excellent way to start your Valentine’s Day meal, offering a delightful vegetarian option that is both healthy and flavorful.
Gulab Jamun
Gulab Jamun is a quintessential Indian dessert that will bring sweetness to your Valentine’s Day. Soft, melt-in-the-mouth balls made from khoya (reduced milk) are deep-fried to perfection and soaked in fragrant rose syrup. The combination of warm, sugary syrup with the rich, golden brown balls makes for an indulgent treat that adds the perfect touch of sweetness to end your special meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup khoya (reduced milk)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Ghee or oil for frying
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon rose water
- 2-3 cardamom pods, crushed
Instructions:
- Make the dough: In a bowl, combine khoya, flour, baking powder, and milk. Knead the mixture into a smooth dough, adding more milk if necessary. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
- Shape the jamuns: Take small portions of the dough and roll them into smooth balls, ensuring there are no cracks.
- Prepare the syrup: In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, crushed cardamom, and rose water. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Fry the jamuns: Heat ghee or oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the dough balls in batches, turning gently until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Soak the jamuns: Once fried, immediately drop the jamuns into the warm syrup and let them soak for 30 minutes.
Gulab Jamun is the perfect sweet ending to a romantic Valentine’s Day meal. The contrast of the warm, syrup-soaked jamuns with the fragrant rose water and cardamom creates a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. Sharing this delectable treat with your loved one will add the final touch of sweetness to an unforgettable evening.
Saffron Rice (Zaffrani Pulao)
Saffron Rice, also known as Zaffrani Pulao, is a fragrant and visually stunning dish that is perfect for celebrating love on Valentine’s Day. The delicate strands of saffron infuse the rice with a warm golden hue and a rich, aromatic flavor. Paired with whole spices and a touch of ghee, this dish is light yet flavorful, making it an excellent accompaniment to any main course or a stand-alone delight. Saffron Rice exudes luxury and elegance, making it the perfect dish for a romantic meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 teaspoon saffron threads
- 1/4 cup warm milk
- 2-3 cloves
- 2-3 cardamom pods
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
- Water (for cooking rice)
Instructions:
- Soak the saffron: Soak the saffron threads in warm milk for 10-15 minutes to release the color and flavor.
- Cook the rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice, a pinch of salt, and cook it until it’s tender but not mushy.
- Prepare the tempering: In a separate pan, heat ghee over medium heat. Add the whole spices—cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and bay leaf. Sauté them for a minute until fragrant.
- Mix in the saffron milk: Add the saffron-infused milk to the pan and stir well. Pour this mixture over the cooked rice and gently fluff the rice to coat it with the saffron and ghee.
- Serve: Garnish with slivered almonds or pistachios if desired. Serve hot as a side dish or on its own.
Saffron Rice is the epitome of elegance and flavor. Its golden hue, enhanced by the rich aroma of saffron and spices, creates a stunning presentation that will impress your Valentine. Whether paired with a rich curry or enjoyed on its own, this aromatic rice dish will elevate any romantic dinner, providing a luxurious and comforting experience. Its subtle flavor makes it a perfect choice for a festive, heartwarming meal to celebrate your love.
Tandoori Shrimp
Tandoori Shrimp is a bold and flavorful dish that will captivate your taste buds on Valentine’s Day. Marinated in a mixture of yogurt, spices, and a touch of lemon juice, the shrimp absorbs all the aromatic flavors before being grilled to perfection. This dish offers a perfect balance of smokiness and spice, making it an exciting appetizer or main dish for your special occasion. The vibrant red color and smoky flavor make Tandoori Shrimp a perfect choice for a celebration of love.
Ingredients:
- 500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Marinate the shrimp: In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chili powder, cumin, garam masala, and salt. Add the shrimp and coat them evenly with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. If you’re using a regular pan, lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
- Grill the shrimp: Place the marinated shrimp on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are cooked through with a slight char.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the shrimp from the grill, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve with lemon wedges.
Tandoori Shrimp offers a beautiful combination of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors that will make your Valentine’s Day meal unforgettable. The quick grilling process enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness, while the vibrant marinade adds layers of flavor. This dish is a fantastic way to impress your Valentine with a meal that’s both delicious and full of character, making it a perfect choice for a celebration of love and togetherness.
Mango Lassi
Mango Lassi is a sweet, creamy, and refreshing Indian drink that is perfect for Valentine’s Day. Made with ripe mangoes, yogurt, and a hint of cardamom, this drink has a luscious, smooth texture and a natural sweetness that will leave your loved one craving more. It’s a wonderful way to cool down after a flavorful meal and can even double as a dessert or treat. With its vibrant orange color and tropical flavor, Mango Lassi brings a touch of romance and indulgence to any celebration.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup milk (or water for a lighter version)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the mango: Peel and chop the mango into small pieces, discarding the pit.
- Blend the lassi: In a blender, combine the mango, yogurt, milk, sugar, and cardamom. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Add ice: If you prefer a colder, frothy texture, add a few ice cubes to the blender and blend again.
- Serve: Pour the Mango Lassi into glasses and serve chilled.
Mango Lassi is a sweet and comforting drink that will add a refreshing and romantic touch to your Valentine’s Day celebration. Its creamy consistency and tropical sweetness make it a perfect balance to spicy and savory dishes, providing a cool and soothing contrast. This simple yet flavorful drink will help bring the meal to a satisfying close, making it a wonderful addition to your Valentine’s Day menu. Enjoy it with your loved one and celebrate the joy of sharing a delightful, delicious treat.
Chicken Korma
Chicken Korma is a rich, aromatic curry that combines tender chicken pieces with a creamy, spiced sauce. This dish is perfect for a special Valentine’s Day meal, offering a luxurious and comforting experience. The blend of yogurt, cream, and ground nuts creates a velvety texture, while a mix of fragrant spices provides a deep, layered flavor. Whether paired with naan or steamed rice, Chicken Korma offers a taste of indulgence that will surely make your celebration unforgettable.
Ingredients:
- 500g boneless chicken, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 cup cashew nuts, ground into a paste
- 1/4 cup yogurt
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken: Heat ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same pan, sauté the onions until golden brown. Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute. Stir in the ground spices—coriander, cumin, turmeric, and garam masala—and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the cashew paste: Stir in the ground cashew nuts, yogurt, and cream. Mix well and add the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the chicken: Return the browned chicken to the pan, stir to coat in the sauce, and simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with naan or rice.
Chicken Korma is a dish that radiates elegance, making it an ideal choice for a Valentine’s Day dinner. The rich, creamy sauce and fragrant spices create a luxurious meal that is both comforting and indulgent. It’s a perfect way to pamper your loved one with a special dish that speaks of care and affection, enhancing the joy of your celebration with every bite.
Aloo Gobi (Potato and Cauliflower Curry)
Aloo Gobi is a comforting vegetarian curry that combines tender potatoes and cauliflower in a spiced tomato gravy. This dish is both light and hearty, with a vibrant color that’s as inviting as it is delicious. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, Aloo Gobi offers a subtle yet rich flavor profile that makes it an ideal side dish or even a main course for your romantic meal. Its simplicity and the balance of spices make it a beloved dish in Indian cuisine, and it’s sure to satisfy both vegetarian and non-vegetarian diners alike.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Sauté the spices: Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add the onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add tomatoes and spices: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, turmeric, coriander, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the spices bloom.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the potatoes and cauliflower florets to the pan. Stir to coat the vegetables in the spice mixture, then add a little water to help cook the vegetables. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with naan or rice.
Aloo Gobi is a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dish that adds color and warmth to your Valentine’s Day table. The soft potatoes and cauliflower absorb the rich spices, creating a savory experience that is both comforting and light. It’s an excellent dish for a romantic meal, and its simplicity makes it easy to prepare while still impressing your Valentine with its bold flavors.
Pista Kulfi (Pistachio Ice Cream)
Pista Kulfi is a traditional Indian ice cream made with ground pistachios, milk, and cream, offering a rich, nutty, and creamy dessert experience. This frozen treat is the perfect way to end a Valentine’s Day meal, with its exotic flavor and indulgent texture. Unlike traditional Western ice cream, Kulfi is denser and creamier, making it a refreshing yet rich finish to any dinner. With a sprinkling of pistachios on top, Pista Kulfi is a festive and elegant dessert that will sweep your Valentine off their feet.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted pistachios
- 2 cups full-fat milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup condensed milk
- 1/4 cup cream
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- Chopped pistachios for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the pistachios: Grind the pistachios into a fine powder using a food processor or mortar and pestle.
- Cook the milk: In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the milk over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning. When it starts to simmer, add the sugar, condensed milk, and ground pistachios.
- Simmer the mixture: Cook the mixture for 15-20 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a creamy consistency. Add the cardamom powder and cream, mixing well.
- Freeze the Kulfi: Pour the mixture into kulfi molds or small cups. Cover and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
- Serve: To serve, unmold the Kulfi, garnish with chopped pistachios, and enjoy.
Pista Kulfi is a decadent dessert that adds a special touch to your Valentine’s Day meal. The nutty pistachios paired with the creamy milk and delicate hint of cardamom make for an unforgettable dessert experience. This homemade treat will impress your Valentine with its unique flavor and texture, leaving you both with a sweet and satisfying end to a memorable meal.
Paneer Tikka
Paneer Tikka is a popular vegetarian appetizer in Indian cuisine, perfect for a Valentine’s Day celebration. Marinated in a blend of yogurt, spices, and herbs, this dish features paneer (Indian cottage cheese) grilled to perfection, resulting in a smoky, flavorful, and tender bite. The combination of vibrant spices and the rich texture of paneer makes it a great starter to any romantic meal. Serve it with a side of mint chutney and enjoy the smoky flavors that will make your evening even more special.
Ingredients:
- 250g paneer, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon oil (for grilling)
- Fresh cilantro and lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chili powder, coriander, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well.
- Marinate the paneer: Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and gently coat them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
- Grill the paneer: Heat a grill pan or an outdoor grill to medium-high. Brush with a little oil and place the marinated paneer cubes on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until grill marks appear and the paneer is slightly charred.
- Garnish and serve: Serve the paneer tikka hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges. Pair it with mint chutney for added flavor.
Paneer Tikka is a crowd-pleasing, flavorful dish that brings warmth and spice to your Valentine’s Day. The smoky char and tender texture of the paneer, combined with the vibrant spices, create a perfect balance of flavor. It’s a wonderful way to start a romantic meal, and the ease of preparation ensures you can focus on enjoying the evening with your loved one.
Rogan Josh (Kashmiri Lamb Curry)
Rogan Josh is a fragrant and flavorful Kashmiri lamb curry that brings rich, aromatic spices together to create a hearty and comforting dish. Its deep red color and tender lamb pieces, cooked in a savory and spiced gravy, make it an ideal choice for a special Valentine’s Day dinner. The dish is enriched with a variety of spices, including cardamom, cinnamon, and Kashmiri chili powder, which bring warmth and depth to the curry. Rogan Josh is sure to impress with its luxurious flavor and tender meat.
Ingredients:
- 500g lamb, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 2 onions, finely sliced
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 2 tablespoons Kashmiri chili powder (or regular chili powder)
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1 cup water or lamb stock
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Brown the lamb: Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the lamb cubes and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the lamb and set it aside.
- Sauté the onions and spices: In the same pan, add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute. Then add the ground coriander, cumin, cinnamon, cardamom, and Kashmiri chili powder. Stir well to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add tomatoes and cook: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they soften, about 5 minutes. Add yogurt and mix well.
- Simmer the curry: Return the lamb to the pan and pour in the water or stock. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the lamb is tender and the curry thickens.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with basmati rice or naan.
Rogan Josh is a luxurious, rich curry that will elevate your Valentine’s Day dinner. The tender lamb in its flavorful, spiced gravy offers a beautiful and indulgent dish, perfect for a romantic evening. The warming spices and aromatic herbs create an unforgettable experience that will have both you and your Valentine savoring every bite.
Gajar Halwa (Carrot Pudding)
Gajar Halwa is a classic Indian dessert made from grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee, slowly cooked until it forms a rich, fragrant pudding. The dish, which is both sweet and nutty, is perfect for a special Valentine’s Day treat. The soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, combined with the warmth of cardamom and the crunch of cashews, creates an unforgettable dessert. Gajar Halwa is a delightful and comforting way to end a romantic meal, and its vibrant color adds a touch of elegance to your Valentine’s celebration.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and grated
- 2 cups full-fat milk
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 cup cashews, chopped
- 1/4 cup raisins
Instructions:
- Cook the carrots: In a large pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the grated carrots and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they soften slightly.
- Add milk: Pour in the milk and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the milk reduces and thickens, about 20-25 minutes.
- Add sugar and cardamom: Once the milk has thickened, add the sugar and cardamom powder. Stir well and continue to cook for another 5-10 minutes until the mixture reaches a pudding-like consistency.
- Garnish and serve: In a separate pan, lightly roast the cashews and raisins in a little ghee until golden. Garnish the halwa with the roasted nuts and raisins. Serve warm.
Gajar Halwa is the ultimate sweet indulgence for a Valentine’s Day celebration. The delicate sweetness of the carrots combined with the richness of the milk and ghee makes for a comforting and satisfying dessert. Its vibrant orange color and fragrant cardamom will leave a lasting impression, making it a perfect way to end a romantic meal with your loved one.
Malai Kofta
Malai Kofta is a decadent, creamy North Indian dish that features soft, melt-in-your-mouth koftas (fried dumplings) made of mashed potatoes and paneer, served in a rich and velvety tomato-based gravy. This indulgent dish is perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner, offering a luxurious combination of textures and flavors. The koftas soak up the creamy gravy, creating a comforting experience that is sure to impress. Pair it with naan or rice for a memorable meal that’s both hearty and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- For the Koftas:
- 1 cup paneer, grated
- 1 large potato, boiled and mashed
- 1/4 cup cornflour
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
- For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons ghee
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Koftas: In a bowl, combine the grated paneer, mashed potatoes, cornflour, cilantro, garam masala, and salt. Mix everything well and shape the mixture into small balls. Heat oil in a pan and fry the koftas until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Make the Gravy: In a large pan, heat ghee over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden. Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute. Stir in pureed tomatoes, turmeric, coriander, cumin powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the masala.
- Combine and Cook: Add the cream and kasuri methi, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens. Gently add the koftas into the gravy and simmer for 5 minutes to let them soak in the flavors.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.
Malai Kofta is a rich and comforting dish that will make your Valentine’s Day celebration feel indulgent and special. The creamy gravy and soft, flavorful koftas create a perfect harmony of taste and texture. It’s an elegant dish to serve to your loved one, showing care and attention in every bite. Whether enjoyed with naan or rice, this dish is sure to be a memorable part of your romantic meal.
Prawn Masala
Prawn Masala is a flavorful, aromatic Indian seafood dish made with succulent prawns cooked in a spicy and tangy tomato-based gravy. This dish is quick to prepare, yet bursting with bold flavors from the combination of garlic, ginger, and aromatic spices. The juicy prawns absorb the rich gravy, creating a savory experience that’s perfect for a cozy Valentine’s Day dinner. The dish is beautifully complemented by the freshness of cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice, making it an ideal choice for seafood lovers.
Ingredients:
- 500g prawns, cleaned and deveined
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup coconut milk (optional for richness)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Prawns: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden. Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute.
- Make the Masala Gravy: Add the pureed tomatoes, turmeric, red chili powder, coriander, and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens and the oil starts separating from the masala.
- Cook the Prawns: Add the prawns to the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. If you prefer a creamier texture, add coconut milk and stir it in well.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an added zesty kick. Pair with rice or naan for a complete meal.
Prawn Masala is an aromatic and tantalizing dish that will elevate your Valentine’s Day dinner with its rich, spicy gravy and perfectly cooked prawns. The combination of spices, coconut milk, and fresh cilantro creates an unforgettable dish that your loved one will appreciate. This seafood delight is perfect for those looking for a flavorful, exotic touch to their romantic meal.
Gulab Jamun
Gulab Jamun is a quintessential Indian dessert, and it’s an absolute favorite for special occasions like Valentine’s Day. These soft, spongy dumplings are made from milk solids and soaked in a fragrant rose-scented sugar syrup, making them irresistibly sweet and delicious. The golden-brown balls melt in your mouth, offering a blissful sweetness that’s perfect for ending a romantic dinner on a high note. It’s a dessert that carries both tradition and love, perfect for sharing with someone special.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk powder
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (as needed)
- Oil for frying
- For the Syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon rose water
- 2-3 cardamom pods
Instructions:
- Make the Dough: In a bowl, combine milk powder, flour, baking soda, and ghee. Slowly add milk to form a smooth dough. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Shape the Dumplings: Divide the dough into small portions and roll them into smooth, crack-free balls. Be gentle so that the dumplings don’t crack while frying.
- Prepare the Syrup: In a pan, combine sugar, water, rose water, and cardamom pods. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5-7 minutes until it reaches a slightly sticky consistency. Set aside to cool.
- Fry the Gulab Jamun: Heat oil in a pan over low to medium heat. Gently drop the balls into the oil and fry until golden brown. Be sure to fry them on low heat to ensure they cook through.
- Soak in Syrup: Once the gulab jamuns are fried, place them in the warm syrup and allow them to soak for 30 minutes.
- Serve: Serve the gulab jamun warm or at room temperature.
Gulab Jamun is the perfect sweet note to end your Valentine’s Day dinner on. These rich, syrup-soaked dumplings are a beloved Indian dessert that offers an indulgent, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Their soft texture and fragrant sweetness will add a touch of romance and tradition to your celebration, making them the ideal dessert to share with someone special on this heartfelt occasion.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!