Did you know that around 2-3% of the UK population holds themselves to a strict vegan or vegetarian diet?
It’s a number that’s been growing over the last few years, and now… we just have one question.
Are you one of them?
In today’s modern age, there’s no denying that there’s been a significant increase in the number of vegetarians and vegans around the world.
Thankfully, that means a leap in the number of restaurants for curry catering to their needs (and a rise in tasty vegetarian curries served near you).
List of Vegetarian Indian Curry Dishes to Try
Traditionally, when you take a deep dive into the history of curry, Indian cuisine has always been celebrated for its large range of delicious vegetarian dishes.
That doesn’t mean they are easy to identify. If you need some guidance, here are our favourite vegetarian curry ideas you should familiarise yourself with.
1. Roasted Aloo Gobi
For anyone that did not already know, Aloo Gobi is one of the most prominent vegetarian curries originating from India.
Whereas other curries on this list are alternatives to traditional meat dishes, this is a curry that intentionally harnesses the flavours that are created by combining various classic vegetables.
With its core ingredients being potatoes and cauliflower, this bright yellow vegetarian curry can’t be ignored.
Its gentle use of some mild spices means all tastebuds will love this dish.
2. Masala Egg Curry
If you love to cook, Masala Egg Curries are one of the easiest Indian dishes you can whip up. Seriously.
When you have a craving for thick sauces with a fiery kick, look up a recipe and start preparing your ingredients or, order one from your local Indian takeaway.
Made from an enticing combination of vegetables, beans, spices, and coconut milk, there’s one thing we know for certain, with this classic vegetarian curry…
You'll soon have a satisfied stomach.
3. Aubergine Dhansak
As stated previously, some of these curries are normally meat-based.
However, the traditional dhansak curry consists of a mixture of lentils and vegetables, meaning that it is a prime candidate for winning the title of best vegetarian Indian curry.
By substituting the lamb which is usually used in the dhansak for some tasty aubergine, you do not miss out on the core texture that makes up the dish.
The Aubergine Dhansak, similar to the Aloo Gobi, is a relatively mild vegetarian curry; instead of focusing on spices, it looks to promote a sweet flavour, using such ingredients as pumpkins and tomatoes.
4. Ayurvedic Beetroot Curry
This next vegetarian curry is a little harder to find in a restaurant but is still worth adding to your radar.
As the name suggests, its core ingredient is cubes of healthy, tasty, beetroot that result in a bright and tasty appearance.
The strong earthy flavour has hints of spice that are mostly dominated by creamy deliciousness. Ultimately, when paired with a hearty serving of basmati rice, you might have found your new favourite food.
5. Chard Saag Aloo
Are you struggling to choose a vegetarian curry? This one might just be the solution you’ve been looking for.
Should you be on the hunt for a dish that is colourful (and enjoyable) to look at, as well as varied in its flavours, look no further than the Chard Saag Aloo.
Easy to prepare, this dish incorporates several different ingredients. The most important element of this curry is spinach – which is not only an extremely healthy and nutritional vegetable but also gives the dish a delightful green hue.
With mustard seeds and cumin used for seasoning, there are lots of flavours in this incredible vegetarian curry you can savour.
6. Rajma Paneer
In any other dish, the idea of kidney beans and cottage cheese being used together is almost abhorrent.
In Rajma Paneer, though, the flavour profile just works.
Rich in fibre and protein, this traditional Indian vegetarian curry is the very definition of “should not be missed” and has been enjoyed for years across the country.
7. Courgette Kofta Curry
Similar to a North Indian dish called Lauki Kofta, this is one of the best vegetarian Indian curries you’ll encounter on your food journey.
It has a gentle orange colour (thanks to the variety of traditional spices used), and could be considered a twist on “spaghetti and meatballs”. One that your kids will love.
The kofta can be pan-fried or baked, and result in a mouthwatering experience that won’t soon be forgotten.
8. Matar Paneer
Originating from Northern India, the Matar Paneer is an Indian vegetarian curry notorious for its creamy texture.
If you are unfamiliar with paneer, it is a type of cheese that is often used as an alternative to meat – this is due to its denseness.
Accompanied traditionally by an assortment of peas and tomatoes, with a large quantity of yoghurt added in for good measure, this is a delicious meal that is good for the whole family.
(As long as no one is lactose intolerant.)
9. Sylheti Sabzi
More than 8 out of 10 Indian restaurants in the UK are owned by Bangladeshis.
Therefore, it wouldn’t be right to ignore a critical vegetarian curry that is a celebration of the Sylheti culture.
Cooked with exotic spices, okra, aubergine, yoghurt, spinach, and tomatoes, this dish has a full, rich, and distinctive flavour.
10. Chana Masala
Armed with a can of chickpeas and a heaping of spices, Chana Masala is one of the best vegetarian curries to make at home.
It has a slightly sour tang - thanks to the addition of citrus fruits, onion, and coriander - that is both addictive and delightful.
Often served with a generous heaping of fresh chilli, this is a dish that will light up your tastebuds and warm your stomach - although the heat in no way compromises the flavour.
11. Paneer Makhani
Cheese, tomatoes, spices, cashews, and cream.
Those are the core ingredients of this next vegetarian Indian curry - which not only has a silky texture but is also packed full of nutrients for a healthy and fulfiling meal.
Paneer Makhani is the direct, vegetable-based replacement for the UK favourite of Butter Chicken, which you might be missing since you decided to become vegetarian.
12. Rajma Masala
Doesn’t everyone in the UK love gravy?
It’s a key part of our traditional roast dinners but we’re not the only country that uses such sauce.
Rajma Masala is a thick vegetarian curry most often enjoyed with a side that’s great for dipping, such as naan bread.
It uses the typical range of Indian spices but presents them in a different way, with kidney beans stirred through to add a unique vibrancy to the taste.
13. Paneer Korma
As a relatively mild curry, Paneer Korma is a great option for anyone with a sensitive stomach or those looking to avoid spice.
It has a yoghurt-based sauce that carries a sweet and nutty undertone, deriving from poppy seeds, cardamom, and coconut.
Regardless of your taste preferences, this vegetarian curry is easy on the tastebuds.
14. Palak Paneer
You might be noticing a common theme amongst these Indian vegetarian curries.
Many replace meet for sweet and crispy paneer, which, if you’re a fan of halloumi, should be of great delight to you.
Palak Paneer is a dish that describes spinach with cheese, which has a creamy yet sour flavour palette that you’ll soon fall in love with.
It’s low in carbs and calories, high in iron, and a suitable choice for anyone watching what they eat.
FAQs about Vegetarian Indian Curry
As you can see, sticking to a plant-based diet doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the wonders that India has to offer.
While you continue on your adventure of finding alternative meals - like low-calorie Indian foods - to the ones you used to love, check out these FAQs for guidance.
- Is vegetarian curry good for you?
Like with many foods, vegetarian curry can be good in moderation.
The nutritious vegetables are great for building your immunity to sickness and improving gut health, but the creams and cheeses used in most recipes can be very fattening for anyone watching their weight.
- What is vegetable curry made of?
The majority of vegetarian curries combine a mix of spices, lentils, and classic vegetables (like cauliflower, courgette, and aubergine) with coconut milk or cream.
- What makes curry not vegan?
Ghee.
Typically, most curries include ghee, which is clarified butter made from dairy products. Beyond that, some are also made with cheese and a variety of creams.
- What is the best vegetarian Indian curry to order?
Channa Masala.
It is a chickpea curry that’s a regional favourite in North India and will soon be one of yours!
- Are all Indian curries hot?
No, there are many Indian curries (including vegetarian options) that are mild yet still flavourful. They simply use less of the spices that many people have come to love and are often balanced out with decedent cheese or cream.
- What is the most popular curry in the world?
Any form of jalfrezi, a delightful curry that is loved in countries like India, the UK, and the US. It incorporates a variety of different ingredients and spices to create a wide menu range for anyone wanting to order Indian for dinner.
- What side goes well with curry?
There’s no doubt that you’ll know of naan bread and for good reason. It’s a classic side that is used to finish off any sauce left over from your curry.
People also enjoy roti, samosas, and bhajis for an extra bit of crunch; all of which are great with vegetarian curries, too.
Ordering Vegetarian Curry Near You with ChefOnline
Vegetarian curries are warming, packed full of flavour, and are some of the most popular Indian takeaway dishes.
Even meat-eaters are a fan.
However, finding suitable restaurants when you have dietary requirements can be incredibly tricky. It doesn’t have to be.
ChefOnline has developed an effective (and efficient) food ordering app on the market, and, through it, you can browse a wide array of the best vegetarian options and choose a curry online.
Your enjoyment of a delicious meal is just a few clicks away. Sign up today.
Which Indian vegetarian curries are you planning to try?
