Indian Dishes without Onion and Garlic

Indian dishes are known for their strong tastes and fragrant seasonings. Many people follow dietary rules, though. For religious or health reasons, onions and garlic are frequently left out. Thankfully, several Indian dishes do not contain onions and garlic. Let’s look at some classic meals that still have their wonderful taste and fragrance.

Including the essential spices that make those dishes come alive.

Why Avoid Onion and Garlic?

Avoidance of onions and garlic has a great tradition based on spiritual disciplines, like Ayurveda and Jainism. In Ayurveda, onions and garlic are classified as Raja Sikh and Tamasic. This implies that they can enhance and also quiet the mind. Most people even abstain from these substances during festivals or fasting. The food is delicious thanks to many spices and other herbs employed even if there is no onion or garlic in it.

Popular Indian Dishes Without Onion and Garlic

Here are some yummy dishes that follow this kind of dietary restriction:

1. Aloo Jeera

It includes aloo: a classic, well-known meal. It is made using freshly boiled potatoes and fried cumin seeds, which give off a nice fragrance. You could also use a bit of turmeric, coriander powder and lime juice, because this enhances the dish’s flavour. Top with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice; however, some might prefer it without.

2. Paneer Burji

A soft culinary creation that contains cheese and tomatoes pureed along with sour green chilies and some authentic spices. Turmeric, garam masala, and a touch of methi (dried fenugreek leaves) complement a fresh blend of tomatoes with a sour flavor. It’s a simple and quick recipe for protein-rich and easy meals. Certainly paratha or roti makes a good accompaniment.

3. Tomato Rassam

To make this hot and spicy South Indian-style soup, we use ripe tomatoes, tamarind pulp, black pepper, cumin seeds, curry leaves, and other flavorful ingredients. Additionally, mustard seeds and a tad of asafoetida season this dish to create a desirable taste. Utilize it as a soup or complement it to steamed rice. This dish is not only comforting but also flavourful.

4. Sabudana Khichdi

A popular fasting dish made with soaked tapioca pearls, roasted peanuts, cumin, and green chilies, lightly seasoned with salt and a pinch of sugar. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime juice. Light but satisfying Suitable for breakfast or snacks.

5. Lauki Chana Dal

This healthy curry combines bottled bitter melon and Bengal gram in a tomato-based gravy. We soak Chana Dal and cook it until soft. Meanwhile, a spicy gravy made with turmeric, coriander powder and garam masala simmers for a nutrient-rich dish that pairs well with steamed rice or chapatis. 

6. Matar Paneer

The richness of this dish comes from the cashew nuts or cream. Juice from cumin, turmeric, spicy spices and other spices Season with dried cumin leaves and fresh coriander. Makes it a favourite at any festive dinner party. 

7. Kadhi Pakora

In the curry, we add soft gram flour dumplings (pakora) along with curd. Thicken with chickpeas. Garnish with mustard seeds, curry leaves and dry red chillies. It is a delicious and appetizing menu.The sharpness of the curd perfectly balances the richness of the pakoras.

8. Vegetable Pulao

Fragrant basmati rice cooked with a mixture of vegetables, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves and spices. Stir-fry with spices before cooking rice in a water or vegetable store. Makes each rice grain smell fragrant. For a luxurious feel, you can add fried cashews or raisins. 

9. Beetroot Poriyal

Both tasty and colorful, beetroot Poriyal is a lively and healthy South Indian cuisine. Balanced with a pinch of salt and a splash of lime juice, grated beetroot cooked with fresh coconut milk Mustard seeds, curry leaves and green chillies have their natural sweetness just right. This meal also gives your plate some more color. Still, it contains nutritional value and aids in preserving good eyesight. Makes a wonderful side dish.

10. Bhindi Masala

Fresh okra with a mixture of tomatoes, turmeric, cumin, diya and other spices.We cook the okra until tender and slowly add the spices to ensure even coating. We garnish this dry dish with coriander and pair it with dal and rice or bread.

Tips for cooking without onions and garlic

• Use a small amount of asafetida to simulate the intensity of onions and garlic. 
• Use tomatoes as an ingredient for making gravy. and increase clarity and moisture. Add nuts and seeds like cashews, almonds, or sesame seeds for a creamy texture. 
• Stir-fry before adding spices to enhance the aroma. 
• Finally, add fresh herbs like coriander or mint for extra flavour.

Conclusion 

Preparing Indian cuisine without onion and garlic does not necessitate a sacrifice of flavour or authenticity. With an appropriate fusion of spices (and a touch of creativity), one can develop meals that are both rich and deeply satisfying. Although you may be delving into this culinary approach for various reasons—be they religious, health-related, or merely for the sake of experimentation—these recipes demonstrate that the diversity found within Indian cuisine is truly unparalleled. Ready to elevate your culinary skills? Stock up on premium-quality spices from Ma Spices today and craft meals that are unforgettable and bursting with flavour !