Indian cuisine is a treasure trove of bold flavors, aromatic spices, and comforting dishes that make every meal a celebration. While takeout might be your usual go-to, you’d be surprised at how easy (and fun!) it is to whip up some of these iconic curries in your own kitchen.
From creamy and mild to fiery and bold, there’s a curry for every palate and occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, grab those spices, and let’s dive into a world of mouthwatering curries you can make at home. Warning: your kitchen might smell amazing for days!
1. Butter chicken
Butter chicken, or murgh makhani, is a creamy, dreamy dish that’s a crowd-pleaser for a reason. Tender chicken pieces are simmered in a luscious tomato-based gravy, enriched with butter and cream, and kissed with spices like garam masala, cumin, and turmeric.
It strikes the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory, making it irresistible with naan or basmati rice. The best part? You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds. Trust us, once you make this at home, it might just become your go-to comfort food.
2. Paneer tikka masala
If you’re a fan of cheese and curry, paneer tikka masala is your match made in culinary heaven. Cubes of paneer (a firm Indian cheese) are marinated in yogurt and spices, grilled to perfection, and then drowned in a rich, smoky tomato gravy.
The slight char on the paneer adds a lovely depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. This vegetarian marvel pairs beautifully with soft roti or fluffy rice, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s so indulgent, even die-hard meat lovers might not miss the chicken.
3. Rogan josh
Hailing from Kashmir, rogan josh is a feast for the senses with its vibrant red hue and aromatic spice blend. This curry features succulent pieces of lamb slow-cooked with yogurt, onions, and a medley of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and Kashmiri chili.
The result is a dish that’s rich in flavor yet surprisingly light on the stomach. Serve it with steamed rice or butter naan, and you’ve got a dinner fit for royalty. Bonus: your kitchen will smell heavenly while this simmers away.
4. Chana masala
For a quick, healthy, and utterly satisfying meal, chana masala is your go-to dish. This North Indian favorite is a bold and tangy curry made with chickpeas, tomatoes, and a blend of spices like coriander, cumin, and amchur (dry mango powder).
The chickpeas soak up all the flavors, creating a hearty dish that’s perfect with fluffy puris or rice. It’s high in protein, naturally vegan, and absolutely packed with flavor. Once you try this, canned chickpeas will never be boring again.
5. Goan fish curry
Transport yourself to the sunny beaches of Goa with this tangy, coconutty delight. Goan fish curry features tender fish fillets swimming in a spiced coconut milk base, accented with tamarind and curry leaves for a zesty kick. It’s a symphony of tropical flavors that’s light yet deeply satisfying.
Serve it with steamed rice and a side of lime wedges to elevate the flavors even further. This one’s a must-try for seafood lovers looking to spice up their weeknight dinners.
6. Dal makhani
Dal makhani is proof that lentils can be luxurious. This creamy, slow-cooked dish combines black lentils and kidney beans with butter, cream, and a heady mix of spices like fenugreek and ginger. Despite its simplicity, the result is a curry that’s deeply comforting and indulgent.
Pair it with garlic naan or cumin rice for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the ultimate way to elevate humble lentils to superstar status.
7. Chicken vindaloo
For those who love their curries with a fiery kick, chicken vindaloo is the ultimate test of spice tolerance. Originating from Goa with Portuguese influences, this dish combines marinated chicken with a bold and tangy curry base.
Vinegar, chilies, and a mix of aromatic spices give it its signature punch. Despite its heat, it’s beautifully balanced, making every bite a flavorful adventure. Keep a bowl of cooling raita handy, and dive into this lip-tingling masterpiece.
8. Saag paneer
Healthy and delicious, saag paneer brings together creamy spinach and tender paneer cubes in a mild, earthy curry. The vibrant green color and subtle spicing make it as visually appealing as it is tasty. Garlic, ginger, and a touch of cream enhance the flavors without overpowering the dish.
This is one curry you can feel good about indulging in, especially when paired with hot, buttery naan. Even spinach skeptics might convert after a bite of this.
9. Korma
Korma is the perfect choice for anyone who loves mild yet flavorful curries. This dish features meat (or vegetables) simmered in a yogurt and nut-based gravy, spiced delicately with cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon.
The result is a curry that’s rich, creamy, and mildly sweet, with a luxurious texture that feels like a special treat. It pairs wonderfully with naan or pulao rice, making it a favorite for celebratory meals. If you’re new to Indian cooking, this is a great one to start with.
10. Prawns moilee
A light yet flavor-packed curry from Kerala, prawns moilee is a seafood lover’s dream. Juicy prawns are cooked in a delicate coconut milk gravy infused with turmeric, green chilies, and curry leaves. The gentle spicing lets the natural sweetness of the prawns shine through, making it a wonderfully balanced dish.
Serve it with steamed rice or appam (fermented rice pancakes) for an authentic South Indian experience. It’s a perfect dish for those looking to dip their toes into Indian seafood cuisine.
11. Bhindi masala
Okra lovers, rejoice! Bhindi masala is a dry-style curry where okra is sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and a mix of aromatic spices. The result is a slightly tangy, mildly spicy dish with a hint of sweetness from the caramelized onions.
It’s a fantastic side dish or main course when paired with chapati or dal. Even if you’re not typically an okra fan, this dish might just change your mind. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some greens into your diet.
12. Egg curry
When in doubt, whip up an egg curry! This no-fuss dish features boiled eggs nestled in a spiced tomato and onion gravy that’s rich in flavor and easy to make. You can customize the spice level, making it as mild or fiery as you like.
Pair it with roti, paratha, or rice, and you’ve got a quick, protein-packed meal that never disappoints. It’s the perfect curry for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and delicious in a pinch.
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