50+ Classic Winter Indian Dinner Recipes to Keep You Warm

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As the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, warming meal to comfort and nourish you. Indian cuisine, known for its vibrant flavors and aromatic spices, offers a plethora of dishes that are perfect for cozy winter dinners.

Whether you’re craving rich curries, warming dals, or spicy stews, Indian recipes can transform your dinner table into a feast of warmth and delight.

In this article, we’ve compiled 50+ winter Indian dinner recipes that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also keep you cozy throughout the cold season.

From vegetarian delights like Paneer Butter Masala and Aloo Gobi to hearty meat dishes like Chicken Rogan Josh and Lamb Curry, these recipes are easy to follow and packed with flavor.

Get ready to explore a world of culinary wonders that celebrate the essence of Indian cooking during winter!

50+ Classic Winter Indian Dinner Recipes to Keep You Warm

Winter is the perfect time to indulge in comforting meals that bring warmth and satisfaction. Indian cuisine, with its variety of spices, textures, and flavors, provides the ideal solutions for those chilly evenings.

Our collection of 50+ winter Indian dinner recipes offers something for everyone, whether you’re a meat lover, vegetarian, or looking for wholesome, healthy options.

Try these recipes and experience the joy of cooking and sharing delicious meals with family and friends.

From fragrant biryanis to creamy curries, these dishes will not only nourish your body but also warm your heart.

Embrace the season and make your winter dinners memorable with these flavorful Indian recipes!

Spicy Paneer Tikka Masala

Paneer Tikka Masala is a popular North Indian dish, perfect for winter dinners. The rich and creamy tomato-based gravy combined with spicy grilled paneer cubes offers a delightful warmth and comfort during chilly evenings. This dish is a great choice for vegetarians, providing a hearty meal that’s both flavorful and filling.

Ingredients:

  • 200 grams paneer, cut into cubes
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Add paneer cubes and marinate for at least 1 hour.
  2. Heat oil in a pan and grill the marinated paneer cubes until they are golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add cumin seeds and bay leaf. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  4. Add tomato puree and tomato paste. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
  5. Add grilled paneer cubes and mix well. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 10 minutes.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or steamed rice.

Paneer Tikka Masala is a delightful dish that brings a touch of Indian warmth to your winter dinner table. The combination of spices and creamy gravy makes it a comforting choice for cold evenings. Serve it with naan or rice to complete the meal, and enjoy the rich, flavorful experience.

Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a classic Indian dish that has gained worldwide popularity. It’s perfect for winter dinners due to its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken pieces. This dish combines aromatic spices with a buttery tomato-based gravy, creating a comforting and indulgent meal that’s sure to warm you up.

Ingredients:

  • 500 grams boneless chicken, cut into pieces
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 3 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 1 hour.
  2. Heat butter in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add tomato puree, tomato paste, and fenugreek leaves. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
  4. Add marinated chicken pieces and cook until they are tender and cooked through.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 10 minutes.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or steamed rice.

Butter Chicken is a quintessential Indian dish that is perfect for winter dinners. Its rich and creamy gravy, combined with tender chicken pieces, provides a comforting and satisfying meal. Serve it with naan or rice to enjoy a complete and indulgent dining experience that will warm you up on a cold night.

Lamb Rogan Josh

Lamb Rogan Josh is a traditional Kashmiri dish that is ideal for winter dinners. The robust flavors of tender lamb cooked in a fragrant blend of spices and yogurt make this dish incredibly comforting and warming. Rogan Josh is perfect for those who enjoy a hearty and aromatic meal during the colder months.

Ingredients:

  • 500 grams lamb, cut into pieces
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 teaspoons red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 3 tablespoons oil
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 3 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 green cardamom pods
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 cup water
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Add lamb pieces and marinate for at least 1 hour.
  2. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds, bay leaves, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick. Sauté until fragrant.
  3. Add chopped onions and cook until golden brown.
  4. Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
  5. Add marinated lamb pieces and cook on medium heat until they are browned on all sides.
  6. Add water, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the lamb is tender and the sauce is thickened.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or steamed rice.

Lamb Rogan Josh is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is perfect for winter dinners. The tender lamb pieces and rich, spiced gravy make it a comforting and satisfying meal. Serve it with naan or rice to enjoy a complete and hearty dining experience that will warm you up during the cold season.

Chole Bhature

Chole Bhature is a beloved North Indian dish that makes for a hearty and satisfying winter dinner. It consists of spicy chickpea curry (Chole) served with fluffy deep-fried bread (Bhature). The combination of aromatic spices and the comforting texture of the chickpeas makes it an ideal dish to warm you up on a cold evening.

Ingredients for Chole:

  • 2 cups chickpeas, soaked overnight
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 teaspoons red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon chole masala (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lemon wedges for garnish

Ingredients for Bhature:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons semolina (sooji)
  • 1/2 cup yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • Salt to taste
  • Water as needed
  • Oil for deep frying

Instructions:

  1. Pressure cook the soaked chickpeas with a pinch of salt until tender. Set aside.
  2. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and cook for a minute.
  4. Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
  5. Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and chole masala. Mix well.
  6. Add the cooked chickpeas and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges.

For Bhature:

  1. In a bowl, mix all-purpose flour, semolina, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  2. Add yogurt and mix. Gradually add water to form a soft dough. Knead well.
  3. Cover the dough and let it rest for at least 1 hour.
  4. Heat oil in a deep pan. Divide the dough into small balls and roll them into circles.
  5. Deep fry the circles in hot oil until they puff up and turn golden brown.
  6. Serve hot with Chole.

Chole Bhature is a classic Indian dish that provides warmth and comfort, making it perfect for winter dinners. The spicy chickpea curry paired with fluffy Bhature creates a delightful combination that is sure to satisfy. Enjoy this dish with family and friends for a cozy and indulgent meal.

Baingan Bharta

Baingan Bharta is a smoky and flavorful eggplant dish that is perfect for winter dinners. Roasted and mashed eggplant is cooked with tomatoes, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices, resulting in a deliciously warm and comforting meal. This dish is a great way to enjoy the earthy flavors of eggplant during the colder months.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggplants
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Roast the eggplants over an open flame or in the oven until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft. Allow them to cool, then peel 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 ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and cook for a minute.
  4. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
  5. Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.
  6. Add the mashed eggplant and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with roti or naan.

Baingan Bharta is a wonderfully smoky and flavorful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your winter dinner table. The combination of roasted eggplant and aromatic spices creates a deliciously satisfying meal. Serve it with roti or naan for a complete and hearty dining experience that will warm you up on a cold evening.

Aloo Gobi

Aloo Gobi is a popular vegetarian dish made with potatoes (aloo) and cauliflower (gobi). It’s a perfect choice for winter dinners due to its hearty nature and warming spices. This dish is simple yet flavorful, making it a comforting option for a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped

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 green chilies, and cook for a minute.
  3. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
  4. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.
  5. Add cubed potatoes and cauliflower florets, and mix to coat them with the spice mixture.
  6. Cover and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with roti or naan.

Aloo Gobi is a delightful and hearty dish that is perfect for winter dinners. The combination of potatoes and cauliflower cooked with aromatic spices creates a comforting and satisfying meal. Serve it with roti or naan for a complete and enjoyable dining experience that will warm you up during the cold season.

Chicken Biryani

Chicken Biryani is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish that is perfect for winter dinners. This traditional Indian recipe combines marinated chicken with aromatic basmati rice, spices, and herbs. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and hearty meal that is both satisfying and warming on cold evenings.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 500 grams chicken, cut into pieces
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 4 green chilies, slit
  • 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 4 cups water
  • 3 tablespoons oil
  • 2 tablespoons ghee
  • Whole spices: 2 bay leaves, 4 green cardamom pods, 4 cloves, 1 cinnamon stick
  • Saffron strands soaked in 2 tablespoons warm milk (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Wash and soak the basmati rice in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Marinate the chicken with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour.
  3. Heat oil in a large pan and fry the sliced onions until golden brown. Remove half the onions and set aside for garnishing.
  4. To the remaining onions, add the marinated chicken and cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
  5. Add chopped tomatoes and green chilies, and cook until the tomatoes are soft.
  6. In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the whole spices (bay leaves, cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick) and the soaked rice. Cook the rice until it is 70% cooked, then drain.
  7. In a large pot, layer half the cooked rice, followed by the chicken mixture, and then the remaining rice. Sprinkle the fresh mint leaves, cilantro, and saffron milk (if using) over the top.
  8. Drizzle ghee over the rice and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the rice to finish cooking.
  9. Garnish with the reserved fried onions and serve hot with raita or salad.

Chicken Biryani is a classic Indian dish that is perfect for winter dinners. Its aromatic spices and tender chicken combined with fluffy basmati rice create a rich and satisfying meal. The slow-cooking process ensures that all the flavors meld together beautifully, making it a comforting and indulgent choice for a cold evening.

Dal Makhani

Dal Makhani is a creamy and rich lentil dish from North India, perfect for winter dinners. Made with black lentils and kidney beans, slow-cooked with butter and cream, this dish offers a luxurious texture and deep flavors. It’s a comforting and hearty meal that pairs beautifully with naan or rice.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup whole black lentils (urad dal)
  • 1/4 cup red kidney beans (rajma)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 teaspoons red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Soak the black lentils and kidney beans in water overnight. Drain and rinse.
  2. Cook the lentils and kidney beans in a pressure cooker with enough water and a pinch of salt until they are soft and fully cooked.
  3. Heat butter in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  4. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and cook for a minute.
  5. Add tomato puree, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
  6. Add the cooked lentils and beans to the pan and mix well. Simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 5 minutes.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.

Dal Makhani is a luxurious and creamy dish that is perfect for winter dinners. The combination of black lentils and kidney beans cooked with butter and cream creates a rich and comforting meal. Serve it with naan or rice to enjoy a hearty and satisfying dining experience that will warm you up on a cold evening.

Mutton Curry

Mutton Curry is a traditional Indian dish that is perfect for winter dinners. Tender pieces of mutton are cooked in a rich and spicy gravy, making it a hearty and warming meal. The aromatic spices and slow-cooked meat create a depth of flavor that is both satisfying and comforting.

Ingredients:

  • 500 grams mutton, cut into pieces
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 teaspoons red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 2 teaspoons coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 3 tablespoons oil
  • 1 cup water
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a large pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  2. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and cook for a minute.
  3. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
  4. Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.
  5. Add mutton pieces and cook on medium heat until they are browned on all sides.
  6. Add water, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the mutton is tender and the gravy is thickened.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with roti or rice.

Mutton Curry is a flavorful and hearty dish that is perfect for winter dinners. The tender mutton pieces and rich, spicy gravy create a comforting and satisfying meal. Serve it with roti or rice to enjoy a complete and indulgent dining experience that will warm you up during the cold season.

Paneer Butter Masala

Paneer Butter Masala is a beloved North Indian dish perfect for winter dinners. The creamy and mildly spiced tomato-based curry is enriched with butter and cream, making it both luxurious and comforting. This vegetarian delight, featuring soft cubes of paneer, pairs wonderfully with naan or basmati rice, offering a rich and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

  • 250 grams paneer, cubed
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil and butter in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
  2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for another minute.
  4. Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
  5. Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add the paneer cubes and gently mix them into the gravy.
  7. Stir in the heavy cream and let the curry simmer for 5 minutes.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or basmati rice.

Paneer Butter Masala is a rich and creamy dish that provides a perfect balance of flavors, making it ideal for winter dinners. The buttery and creamy texture combined with the soft paneer cubes offers a luxurious and comforting meal that is sure to delight your taste buds. Enjoy this dish with naan or basmati rice for a truly satisfying dining experience.

Aloo Gobi

Aloo Gobi is a classic vegetarian Indian dish that combines potatoes (aloo) and cauliflower (gobi) with a blend of spices. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for winter dinners, offering a warm and satisfying meal that is both nutritious and delicious. The simple preparation and rich flavors make it a favorite in many households.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 3 tablespoons oil
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a large pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  2. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and cook for another minute.
  3. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
  4. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
  5. Add the cubed potatoes and cauliflower florets. Stir to coat them with the spice mixture.
  6. Cover the pan and cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with roti or rice.

Aloo Gobi is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for winter dinners. The combination of tender potatoes and cauliflower with aromatic spices creates a hearty and comforting meal. Serve it with roti or rice to enjoy a simple yet satisfying dining experience that is sure to warm you up on a cold evening.

Chicken Rogan Josh

Chicken Rogan Josh is a classic Kashmiri dish that is perfect for winter dinners. This aromatic and flavorful curry features tender chicken cooked in a rich gravy made with yogurt, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. The slow-cooking process ensures that the chicken absorbs all the flavors, resulting in a deeply satisfying and warming meal.

Ingredients:

  • 500 grams chicken, cut into pieces
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 teaspoons red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon fennel powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
  • Salt to taste
  • 3 tablespoons oil
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a large pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  2. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and cook for another minute.
  3. Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
  4. Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, coriander powder, fennel powder, asafoetida, and salt. Mix well.
  5. Add the chicken pieces and cook on medium heat until they are browned on all sides.
  6. Lower the heat and stir in the yogurt. Cook for a few minutes until the gravy thickens and the chicken is cooked through.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.

Chicken Rogan Josh is a rich and aromatic dish that is perfect for winter dinners. The tender chicken and deeply flavored gravy create a warming and satisfying meal that is sure to delight your taste buds. Serve it with naan or rice for a complete and indulgent dining experience that will warm you up during the cold season.

Palak Paneer

Palak Paneer is a classic North Indian dish that features spinach (palak) and paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a creamy, spiced gravy. This vibrant green dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for winter dinners. The warmth of the spices and the richness of the cream make it a comforting and hearty meal, ideal for serving with naan or rice.

Ingredients:

  • 250 grams paneer, cubed
  • 3 cups spinach leaves, washed and chopped
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Blanch the spinach leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Drain and immediately transfer them to ice water to retain the green color. Blend into a smooth paste.
  2. Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
  3. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  4. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for another minute.
  5. Add the tomato puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
  6. Add the spinach paste and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  7. Gently fold in the paneer cubes and garam masala. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  8. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for a couple more minutes.
  9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.

Palak Paneer is a delicious and nutritious dish that embodies the comforting flavors of Indian cuisine. The creamy spinach sauce paired with soft paneer makes for a hearty meal that is perfect for winter. Enjoying this dish with naan or rice will provide you with a warming and satisfying experience, making it a great addition to your winter dinner repertoire.

Chole (Chickpea Curry)

Chole, also known as chickpea curry, is a popular North Indian dish that is hearty, nutritious, and perfect for winter dinners. Made with chickpeas simmered in a spiced tomato gravy, Chole offers a rich flavor profile that is both comforting and filling. Served with rice or bread, it is a wholesome meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried chickpeas (chana), soaked overnight
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 teaspoons coriander powder
  • 2 teaspoons cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
  • 2 cups water

Instructions:

  1. Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. Pressure cook them with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt until soft. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
  2. Heat oil in a large pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for another minute.
  4. Stir in the tomato puree, coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
  5. Add the cooked chickpeas along with some of the cooking liquid. Mix well and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  6. Stir in garam masala and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice, naan, or bhature.

Chole is a flavorful and hearty dish that is perfect for winter dinners. The combination of chickpeas and aromatic spices creates a comforting meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. Enjoying this dish with rice or bread makes for a delightful dining experience, warming you up on a chilly evening.

Vegetable Korma

Vegetable Korma is a rich and creamy curry made with a mix of vegetables and aromatic spices. This dish is a staple in Indian cuisine and is perfect for winter dinners, offering warmth and comfort. The blend of spices and cream creates a luscious gravy that enhances the flavors of the vegetables, making it a satisfying meal that can be paired with naan or rice.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, potatoes), chopped
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil or ghee in a large pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  2. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for another minute.
  3. Stir in the tomato puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
  4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add water to cover the vegetables and simmer until they are tender.
  6. Stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream and garam masala. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.

Vegetable Korma is a rich and flavorful dish that is perfect for winter dinners. The combination of assorted vegetables in a creamy gravy offers a comforting and satisfying meal. Serve it with naan or rice for a complete dining experience that will keep you warm and cozy on cold evenings.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!