We all have those days when life gets busy, and preparing a home-cooked meal seems like a daunting task. But with the right recipes, cooking a delicious Indian meal on a busy weeknight can be quick, easy, and satisfying. Indian cuisine is full of flavorful dishes that can be whipped up in no time using simple ingredients readily available at Maharaja Farmers Market. Whether you’re craving something spicy or comforting, we’ve got you covered with these easy-to-make Indian recipes perfect for those hectic evenings.
Jeera Rice with Dal
A simple yet hearty meal, Jeera Rice (cumin-flavoured rice) paired with dal (lentil soup) is a quick and satisfying option for busy weeknights. The Jeera Rice can be made by sautéing cumin seeds in a little ghee, adding washed basmati rice, and cooking it with water until fluffy. For the dal, pressure-cook split yellow lentils (moong dal) with a pinch of turmeric. Once cooked, temper the dal with mustard seeds, garlic, and red chilli for extra flavour. This dish is ready in under 30 minutes and is a healthy, comforting option after a long day.
Vegetable Pulao
One-pot meals are a lifesaver when you’re pressed for time, and Vegetable Pulao is one of the easiest Indian recipes to prepare. Using basmati rice, your choice of mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and potatoes), and whole spices such as bay leaves, cloves, and cinnamon, this dish is both aromatic and filling. Cook everything together in one pot or pressure cooker, and in 20 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful, nutritious meal ready to serve. Pair it with yoghurt or raita for a cooling side.
Paneer Bhurji
Paneer Bhurji is scrambled paneer (Indian cottage cheese) dish that can be prepared in under 15 minutes. Crumble fresh paneer and sauté it with onions, tomatoes, green chillies, and spices like turmeric, cumin, and garam masala. Paneer Bhurji can be served with roti, naan, or even stuffed into a wrap for a quick, protein-packed meal. It’s an excellent vegetarian option for those looking to enjoy a tasty dish with minimal prep.
Masala Omelette
For a light dinner that’s high in protein, the Indian-style Masala Omelette is the perfect solution. Whisk eggs with finely chopped onions, green chillies, tomatoes, and fresh coriander. Add a pinch of turmeric, cumin, and red chilli powder for an extra kick. Cook the omelette in a non-stick pan and serve it with buttered toast or roti. It’s a quick, flavorful meal that can be made in under 10 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
Bhindi Masala (Spiced Okra)
Bhindi Masala, or spiced okra, is an easy and delicious side dish that can be made in 20 minutes. Cut fresh okra into small pieces and stir-fry them with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of Indian spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. This dry curry pairs well with roti or paratha and is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal on busy evenings.
Egg Curry
Egg Curry is a quick and hearty dish for busy weeknights. Boiled eggs are simmered in a flavorful tomato and onion-based gravy, spiced with turmeric, cumin, and garam masala. This rich, protein-packed curry can be prepared in less than 30 minutes and pairs well with rice or roti. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal for when you need dinner on the table fast.
Tawa Pulao
Tawa Pulao is a Mumbai street food favourite that can be made quickly at home. It’s essentially a spiced vegetable rice dish made on a flat griddle (tawa) using cooked rice, tomatoes, green peas, bell peppers, and a mix of spices like pav bhaji masala. This dish is quick, requiring only about 15 minutes if you have pre-cooked rice, and offers a burst of flavour in every bite. It’s a perfect option for those nights when you want something fast but delicious.
Easy Ingredients at Maharaja Farmers Market
At Maharaja Farmers Market, we provide all the ingredients you need to make these quick and easy Indian recipes. From premium quality basmati rice and fresh paneer to a wide variety of lentils and spices, our store offers everything you need to prepare delicious meals on the busiest of nights. Visit our locations in Hicksville or Bellerose to stock up on all your kitchen essentials and make your weeknight dinners stress-free.
Conclusion
Cooking a wholesome Indian meal doesn’t have to be time-consuming. With these simple recipes, you can enjoy the flavours of home even on the busiest nights of the week. Try out these dishes for your next weeknight dinner, and visit Maharaja Farmers Market for all the ingredients you need to get started!