Traditional Indian dishes that will impress your vegan guests
Indian food offers a complex tapestry of recipes that may be adapted to a variety of dietary preferences, including veganism. You're in for a fascinating culinary adventure if your goal is to impress your vegan guests with the flavor and authenticity of Indian food. The numerous ethnic cuisines of India offer a variety of excellent plant-based options. Let's explore a few such dishes.
What is veganism?
For the unversed, veganism is the belief or practice of abstaining from the use or consumption of animal products. While some strictly avoid foods derived from animals, many avoid any products that contain animal ingredients or have been tested on animals. In India, the vegan movement is currently thriving. However, there have been numerous traditional vegan dishes long before veganism gained widespread acceptance.
Thepla
Thepla which hails from Gujarat, is made from a dough of whole wheat flour, gram flour (besan), and a medley of spices such as turmeric, red chili powder, and cumin. Fresh fenugreek leaves (methi) are a key ingredient, imparting a distinctive aroma and earthy taste. The result is a fragrant, slightly tangy, and mildly spicy flatbread that pairs wonderfully with yogurt, pickles, or chutneys.
Chana masala
Chana masala, a north Indian dish, is chickpea curry cooked with garlic, tomatoes, ginger, onion, and a ton of spices. Needless to say, it is vegan by default. Ghee is the only possible non-vegan component of this recipe which can be replaced by any plant-based oil. It is usually served with crispy deep-fried puffy bread known as puri.
Patra
Patra is a stuffed rolled colocasia leaves snack that is popular in both Gujarati and Maharashtrian cuisine. It is made from colocasia leaves that have been smeared with a sweet and sour gram flour mixture and rolled into a pinwheel. They are first steamed before being shallow or deep-fried. It may be enjoyed as a snack, or as a side dish.
Masala dosa
Masala dosa is a very crispy, thin savory pancake made from fermented rice and dal (lentils) that is wrapped around a mixture of potatoes, onions, and spices. This dish is purely vegan as its main ingredient comprises vegetables and legumes. It is particularly well-liked in South India and is best served for breakfast or lunch and comes with chutney and sambar.
Medu vada
Donut-shaped lentil fritters that are fluffy inside but crispy on the outside and delectable are known as medu vada, a typical South Indian treat. These savory spiced doughnuts are made of black gram lentils mixed with some spices and herbs. These make for a cozy, filling, and pleasant breakfast or snack when served traditionally with sambar and coconut chutney.
