40+ Delicious Valentine’s Day Indian Vegetarian Recipes for a Heartfelt Feast

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Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to express love and affection through thoughtful gestures, and what better way to do that than by preparing a meal that’s as delightful as your relationship?

If you and your loved one are seeking something unique and meaningful this Valentine’s Day, why not opt for a collection of Indian vegetarian recipes that are sure to impress both the heart and the palate?

Indian cuisine is known for its rich variety of flavors, bold spices, and diverse ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a special occasion.

From fragrant curries to crunchy snacks, there is something in Indian vegetarian cooking to suit every preference and every mood.

Whether you’re looking for something light, a comforting dish, or an indulgent treat, we’ve gathered a list of 40+ mouth-watering Valentine’s Day recipes that will make your celebration even more memorable.

In this blog, we will explore an exciting mix of vegetarian recipes—from appetizers to desserts—that are perfect for sharing with the one you love.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a festive meal that’s full of flavor, color, and love.

40+ Delicious Valentine’s Day Indian Vegetarian Recipes for a Heartfelt Feast

This Valentine’s Day, skip the ordinary and surprise your partner with a delightful spread of Indian vegetarian recipes.

Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner for two or hosting a cozy gathering with friends, these dishes offer a beautiful mix of rich textures, vibrant colors, and tantalizing flavors that will make every bite memorable.

From the warmth of hearty dals to the sweetness of traditional Indian desserts, these recipes are designed to create moments of togetherness and joy.

So, let your kitchen become a place of love and creativity this Valentine’s Day, where every dish speaks volumes of affection.

With 40+ handpicked recipes, you’re bound to find the perfect one (or a few!) to make this Valentine’s Day extra special.

Paneer Tikka

Paneer Tikka is a delightful Indian appetizer that’s perfect for a special Valentine’s Day celebration. This dish features marinated chunks of paneer, grilled to perfection, and served with a tangy mint chutney. The smoky flavor from the grill combined with the creamy texture of paneer makes it a crowd-pleaser. The vibrant colors and aromatic spices will surely add an exciting touch to your romantic dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 250g paneer (cubed)
  • 2 tbsp yogurt
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp red chili powder
  • 1/2 tbsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tbsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt to create the marinade.
  2. Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and coat them well. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the grill or oven to medium heat. Thread the marinated paneer onto skewers.
  4. Brush the paneer with oil and grill for 10-12 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and slightly charred.
  5. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with mint chutney.

Paneer Tikka is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning. The smoky char from grilling adds depth to the marinated paneer, making it the perfect start to a romantic Valentine’s Day meal. The vibrant spices and fresh herbs bring together a rich and savory experience, making it a memorable dish for a special occasion.

Gajar Halwa (Carrot Pudding)

Gajar Halwa, or Indian carrot pudding, is a sweet and comforting dessert made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee. This rich and aromatic dessert is commonly served during festivals and is a perfect treat to make your Valentine’s Day meal extra special. Its vibrant orange color and warm, spiced flavor make it a delightful end to any meal.

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium carrots, grated
  • 2 cups full-fat milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
  • 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios)

Instructions:

  1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the ghee and sauté the grated carrots for 5-6 minutes until they soften.
  2. Add the milk and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the milk reduces and thickens.
  3. Add the sugar and continue cooking until the mixture reaches a pudding-like consistency.
  4. Sprinkle cardamom powder and mix well. Garnish with chopped nuts and serve warm.

Gajar Halwa is a sweet, aromatic dessert that is sure to win hearts on Valentine’s Day. The natural sweetness of the carrots combined with the richness of milk and ghee creates a comforting treat. The added cardamom and crunchy nuts elevate the flavor, making it a perfect dessert to enjoy with your loved one. It’s a classic Indian dessert that brings warmth and joy, completing your romantic meal.

Aloo Gobi (Potato and Cauliflower Curry)

Aloo Gobi is a simple yet flavorful vegetarian curry made with potatoes and cauliflower, spiced with turmeric, cumin, and garam masala. This dish is an ideal choice for Valentine’s Day, offering a balance of textures and flavors. It’s hearty, comforting, and a beautiful addition to any celebratory meal, especially when paired with warm naan or steamed rice.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tbsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden.
  2. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute. Then, add the pureed tomatoes, turmeric, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the masala.
  3. Add the cubed potatoes and cauliflower florets to the pan, and mix well. Cook for 5 minutes, then add water to cover the vegetables. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
  4. Sprinkle garam masala and mix gently. Garnish with fresh coriander.

Aloo Gobi is a classic Indian curry that combines the earthy flavors of potatoes and cauliflower with aromatic spices. It’s a perfect vegetarian dish for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day. The balance of spices and textures creates a comforting and satisfying dish that pairs wonderfully with flatbreads or rice. Its simplicity and depth of flavor make it a go-to choice for a memorable and delicious Valentine’s Day meal.

Palak Paneer (Spinach and Cottage Cheese Curry)

Palak Paneer is a classic North Indian dish made with creamy spinach gravy and soft paneer cubes. The deep green color and rich flavors make this dish both visually appealing and delicious, perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. This healthy and nutritious curry is a great way to enjoy greens with the comforting flavor of paneer, offering a unique blend of textures and spices.

Ingredients:

  • 250g paneer, cubed
  • 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tbsp cream (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp oil

Instructions:

  1. In a pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  2. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute, then add the pureed tomatoes, turmeric, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the masala.
  3. Blanch the spinach leaves in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer to ice-cold water. Puree the spinach to a smooth paste.
  4. Add the spinach puree to the masala and cook for 5 minutes. Add water to reach the desired consistency.
  5. Gently add paneer cubes to the gravy and simmer for 5-7 minutes. Finish with a swirl of cream and garam masala.

Palak Paneer is a rich and creamy dish that combines the goodness of spinach with the delightful texture of paneer. The smooth spinach gravy is seasoned with aromatic spices, making it a comforting choice for your Valentine’s Day celebration. Whether served with naan, roti, or rice, this dish is both nutritious and indulgent, ensuring a memorable meal with your loved one.

Stuffed Aloo (Potato Stuffed with Spiced Vegetables)

Stuffed Aloo is a delicious, hearty dish where boiled potatoes are hollowed out and filled with a flavorful mixture of spiced vegetables. This dish is unique, rich in flavor, and perfect for a cozy, intimate Valentine’s Day dinner. The combination of crispy, golden potatoes and a spicy filling makes this dish both satisfying and memorable.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large potatoes
  • 1/2 cup peas, boiled
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped bell peppers
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Boil the potatoes until tender. Once cooled, slice the top off and scoop out the insides, creating a hollow cavity.
  2. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add chopped carrots, bell peppers, peas, turmeric, garam masala, and salt. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
  4. Stuff the prepared vegetable mixture into the hollowed-out potatoes. Secure the top with a toothpick if needed.
  5. Heat oil in a pan and shallow fry the stuffed potatoes until golden and crispy on all sides.

Stuffed Aloo is a creative and delicious way to serve potatoes. The spiced vegetable filling offers a burst of flavor, while the crispy exterior adds a satisfying crunch. This dish is ideal for a cozy Valentine’s Day dinner, and the combination of tender potatoes and flavorful filling will surely impress your loved one. It’s a warm, comforting dish that feels both homey and special for the occasion.

Vegetable Korma (Mixed Vegetable Curry)

Vegetable Korma is a rich, creamy curry made with a variety of vegetables cooked in a flavorful, spiced coconut gravy. The smooth, aromatic sauce and tender vegetables make this dish a favorite for any occasion, especially Valentine’s Day. Its delicate blend of spices and creaminess makes it a perfect pairing with naan or rice, ensuring a satisfying and indulgent meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrot, beans, peas, cauliflower)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • 1/4 cup cashew nuts
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  2. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute. Then add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften.
  3. In a blender, make a paste of cashew nuts and coconut milk.
  4. Add the mixed vegetables to the pan and cook for 5 minutes. Then add the cashew-coconut paste and simmer for 10 minutes, adding water to adjust the gravy’s consistency.
  5. Finish with garam masala and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Vegetable Korma is a luscious and aromatic dish that combines the richness of cream with a colorful mix of vegetables. The cashew and coconut paste creates a velvety texture, while the blend of spices adds a delicate warmth to the dish. This indulgent curry is perfect for Valentine’s Day, providing a satisfying yet light dish that will leave your loved one feeling both pampered and content. Pair it with warm naan or steamed rice for a complete, delightful meal.

Baingan Bharta (Smoky Roasted Eggplant Curry)

Baingan Bharta is a flavorful and smoky dish made with roasted eggplant mashed into a delicious curry. This dish is a perfect vegetarian option for Valentine’s Day, bringing a unique smoky flavor along with a rich, spiced gravy. The softness of the roasted eggplant combined with aromatic spices makes this dish comforting, making it an ideal addition to your Valentine’s Day dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggplants (baingan)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Roast the eggplants over an open flame or in an oven at 400°F (200°C) until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft (about 20-30 minutes). Let them cool, peel off the skin, and mash the flesh.
  2. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute. Then, add the pureed tomatoes, turmeric, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the masala.
  4. Add the mashed eggplant to the pan and mix well. Cook for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Sprinkle garam masala and garnish with fresh coriander.

Baingan Bharta is a smoky, flavorful dish that is not only comforting but also full of deep, rich flavors. The roasted eggplant gives it a unique taste, enhanced by the spices and tangy tomato gravy. This dish is an excellent choice for a Valentine’s Day dinner as it provides a hearty and satisfying vegetarian option, perfect for pairing with naan or rice. Its smoky aroma and depth of flavor make it a showstopper on any romantic meal.

Kachori (Spicy Fried Pastry with Lentil Filling)

Kachori is a popular Indian snack made of crispy pastry filled with a spicy and savory lentil filling. It’s a delightful treat that can be served as an appetizer or snack during your Valentine’s Day celebration. The crispy golden exterior and the flavorful lentil filling will leave your taste buds wanting more. Paired with a tangy tamarind chutney, Kachori is an unforgettable addition to any romantic meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup moong dal (yellow split lentils), soaked for 1 hour
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 green chili, chopped
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp carom seeds (ajwain)
  • Water (as needed)
  • Ghee or oil for deep frying

Instructions:

  1. For the filling, drain the soaked moong dal and cook it in water until soft. Drain any excess water, then mash the lentils.
  2. Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds, and sauté onions and green chilies until softened. Add the mashed lentils, turmeric, garam masala, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes and set aside to cool.
  3. To make the dough, mix the flour, carom seeds, and a pinch of salt. Add water gradually and knead it into a smooth dough. Let it rest for 20 minutes.
  4. Divide the dough into small balls, flatten each into a disc, and place a spoonful of the filling in the center. Fold the edges over and seal the dough, then roll into a ball again.
  5. Heat ghee or oil in a pan and fry the Kachoris until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Kachori is a delightful, crispy snack that brings a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors. The spiced lentil filling is both satisfying and flavorful, while the crunchy exterior adds a delicious bite. This dish is an excellent way to add a touch of Indian street food to your Valentine’s Day celebration, making it more exciting and flavorful. Pair it with tamarind or mint chutney for an extra burst of flavor.

Malai Kofta (Cottage Cheese and Potato Dumplings in Creamy Gravy)

Malai Kofta is a rich and indulgent dish made with soft cottage cheese and potato dumplings, served in a luscious, creamy gravy. This luxurious dish is perfect for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day, offering a wonderful balance of creamy textures and flavorful spices. The golden, melt-in-your-mouth koftas paired with the velvety gravy make it a beautiful and satisfying vegetarian option for a romantic meal.

Ingredients:

  • 200g paneer (cottage cheese)
  • 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
  • 1/4 cup cornflour
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/4 cup cream
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

  1. To make the koftas, mash together the boiled potatoes and paneer. Add cornflour and salt to form a smooth dough. Shape into small balls and fry them in hot oil until golden brown. Set aside.
  2. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute.
  3. Add pureed tomatoes, turmeric, garam masala, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the masala.
  4. Add a little water to create the gravy, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and stir in the cream.
  5. Gently add the fried koftas to the gravy and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing them to soak in the flavors.

Malai Kofta is a decadent, rich dish that combines soft, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings with a creamy, spiced gravy. It’s an indulgent dish that’s perfect for a special Valentine’s Day dinner. The flavors are smooth, aromatic, and luxurious, making it a wonderful choice for impressing your loved one. Serve it with naan or steamed rice for a complete, delightful meal that will add an extra layer of warmth to your romantic evening.

Vegetable Pulao (Fragrant Spiced Rice with Mixed Vegetables)

Vegetable Pulao is a fragrant rice dish made with basmati rice, mixed vegetables, and a blend of aromatic spices. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for a Valentine’s Day meal. The subtle spiciness of the dish, combined with the freshness of the vegetables, creates a comforting and satisfying dish that pairs wonderfully with any curry or raita.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup basmati rice, soaked for 30 minutes
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrot, peas, beans, and potatoes)
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • 1 green chili, slit
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1-inch cinnamon stick
  • 2-3 cloves
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp oil or ghee
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil or ghee in a large pot. Add cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cloves, and bay leaf. Once the spices release their fragrance, add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
  2. Add the chopped tomatoes, green chili, turmeric, and salt. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes soften.
  3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.
  4. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot. Stir gently, ensuring the rice is well coated with the spices.
  5. Add 2 cups of water, garam masala, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and cook on low for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.
  6. Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

Vegetable Pulao is a simple, aromatic dish that can easily become the centerpiece of any meal. The fragrant basmati rice combined with a variety of vegetables and spices creates a beautiful balance of flavors. This dish is a great vegetarian option for Valentine’s Day, as it’s light yet satisfying, making it a great pairing for rich curries or refreshing raita. Its colorful appearance and delicate flavor will surely make your Valentine’s meal feel extra special.

Gajar Halwa (Carrot Pudding)

Gajar Halwa is a popular Indian dessert made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee, simmered together to form a rich, indulgent pudding. It’s the perfect way to end your Valentine’s Day meal with a sweet touch. The tender carrots cooked with milk and sugar offer a delicious sweetness, while the ghee adds a rich depth of flavor, making it a comforting and celebratory dish.

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium carrots, grated
  • 2 cups full-fat milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
  • 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
  • 10-12 cashews and almonds, chopped
  • Saffron strands (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat ghee in a pan and add the grated carrots. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the carrots soften.
  2. Add milk to the pan and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the carrots to cook and the milk to reduce.
  3. Once the mixture thickens, add sugar and cardamom powder. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves, and the halwa becomes a pudding-like consistency.
  4. Garnish with chopped cashews and almonds. Optionally, add saffron strands soaked in warm milk for an extra touch of luxury.

Gajar Halwa is a warm, comforting dessert that is perfect for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day. The natural sweetness of the carrots is complemented by the richness of the ghee and milk, creating a dessert that is both indulgent and satisfying. The addition of cardamom and nuts enhances the flavor, making it even more aromatic and festive. This dessert is an excellent choice to conclude your romantic meal, leaving you and your loved one with a lasting, sweet memory.

Aloo Gobi (Potato and Cauliflower Curry)

Aloo Gobi is a flavorful and comforting curry made with potatoes and cauliflower, simmered in a blend of aromatic spices. This dish is a perfect combination of simplicity and taste, making it an excellent choice for a light yet satisfying vegetarian dish for your Valentine’s Day meal. The tender potatoes and cauliflower in a well-seasoned gravy create a perfect balance of flavors, making it a beloved dish in Indian cuisine.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  2. Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the spices become aromatic.
  3. Add the cubed potatoes and cauliflower florets to the pan. Stir to coat the vegetables with the spices.
  4. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes on low heat until the vegetables are tender and cooked through.
  5. Sprinkle garam masala on top and garnish with fresh coriander.

Aloo Gobi is a simple yet flavorful dish that offers a wonderful combination of tender vegetables and aromatic spices. The softness of the potatoes and cauliflower, combined with the mild spicing, makes this curry an excellent choice for a vegetarian Valentine’s Day meal. It’s comforting yet light, perfect for a romantic dinner when paired with naan or rice. This dish proves that sometimes simplicity and balance are the keys to creating a memorable meal.

Paneer Tikka (Grilled Cottage Cheese Skewers)

Paneer Tikka is a popular vegetarian appetizer made with marinated paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cubes, grilled to perfection. The rich marinade, made with yogurt and a variety of spices, infuses the paneer with flavors that are both tangy and spicy. It’s a fantastic dish to serve for a Valentine’s Day meal, offering a delicious and indulgent bite that’s also healthy and satisfying.

Ingredients:

  • 200g paneer, cut into cubes
  • 1/2 cup thick yogurt
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
  • Sliced onions and lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, salt, and oil to form a smooth marinade.
  2. Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and coat them evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  3. Preheat the grill or oven to medium-high heat. Skewer the marinated paneer cubes and place them on the grill or in the oven.
  4. Grill the paneer for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is golden brown and slightly charred at the edges.
  5. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve with sliced onions and lemon wedges.

Paneer Tikka is a delectable, flavorful appetizer that’s sure to impress on Valentine’s Day. The grilled, slightly smoky paneer paired with a tangy marinade makes for a wonderful start to the meal. Whether served as a starter or as a side dish with naan or rice, it’s a great way to set the tone for a festive and memorable meal. This vegetarian treat is both indulgent and wholesome, making it the perfect choice for a romantic dinner.

Methi Thepla (Fenugreek Flatbread)

Methi Thepla is a nutritious, flavorful flatbread made with fresh fenugreek leaves (methi), wheat flour, and a combination of aromatic spices. This Gujarati specialty is slightly spiced and perfect for any meal, especially Valentine’s Day breakfast or brunch. Its earthy flavor and soft texture make it a comforting yet unique dish, ideal for sharing with your loved one.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 cup fresh fenugreek leaves (methi), chopped
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • Water, as needed for dough
  • Ghee or butter for cooking

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, chopped methi leaves, turmeric powder, cumin powder, chili powder, and salt.
  2. Slowly add water and knead the mixture into a soft dough. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Divide the dough into small balls and roll them out into thin discs (thepla).
  4. Heat a tawa or flat griddle over medium heat. Cook each thepla on both sides, brushing with ghee or butter until golden brown spots appear.
  5. Serve hot with yogurt, pickle, or a cup of chai.

Methi Thepla is a healthy and delicious addition to your Valentine’s Day breakfast or brunch. The slight bitterness of fenugreek leaves combined with the aromatic spices creates a unique and memorable flavor profile. Served with yogurt or pickle, it makes for a wholesome, satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by itself or as part of a larger spread. Its simple preparation and nutritious ingredients make it a thoughtful and flavorful way to celebrate the day with your loved one.

Daal Tadka (Spiced Lentils)

Daal Tadka is a classic Indian dish made from lentils, cooked with spices, and topped with a tempering (tadka) of ghee, garlic, and cumin. It is a comfort food loved by many for its rich flavor and soothing qualities. For Valentine’s Day, this dish offers a simple, yet flavorful, vegetarian option that pairs beautifully with rice or flatbread.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup toor dal (yellow split pigeon peas)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 green chili, slit
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp ghee
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the toor dal and pressure cook it with 3 cups of water, turmeric, and salt for 3-4 whistles or until the dal is soft.
  2. Heat ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds and allow them to splutter. Add garlic and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add the chopped onions and green chili. Cook until the onions are translucent.
  4. Add the tomatoes, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil begins to separate.
  5. Add the cooked dal to the pan and mix well. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with steamed rice or roti.

Daal Tadka is a quintessential Indian dish that’s full of flavor and comfort. The soft lentils, infused with spices and topped with the sizzling tempering, create a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s a wonderful vegetarian option for Valentine’s Day, offering warmth and wholesomeness. Pair it with some rice or roti for a complete meal, and enjoy the flavors of this simple yet deeply flavorful dish with your loved one. It’s perfect for a cozy and heartwarming dinner.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!