Easy Indian Cooking: 100 Easy Vegetarian Dishes On A Budget

By BHASKAR BORA

Embark on a culinary adventure with Easy Indian Cooking: 100 Vegetarian Dishes on A Budget by Bhaskar Bora. This vibrant cookbook is a treasure trove of delicious, nutritious, and budget-friendly vegetarian recipes that celebrate the rich and diverse flavours of Indian cuisine. From hearty breakfasts and quick snacks to festive feasts and healthy options, this book offers something for every taste and occasion.

Discover the secrets of Indian cooking with easy-to-follow recipes, detailed instructions, and practical tips for using essential spices and techniques. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, Bhaskar's passion for food and dedication to simplicity will inspire you to create mouth-watering meals that are kind to your wallet.

Highlights:

100 Delicious Recipes: Explore a wide range of vegetarian dishes, from regional specialties to street food favourites.

Budget-Friendly Cooking: Learn how to prepare tasty meals using affordable, readily available ingredients.

Healthy Options: Find nutritious recipes that promote well-being without sacrificing flavour.

Cooking Tips and Techniques: Master the art of Indian cooking with essential tips and techniques.

Transform your kitchen with the flavours of India and enjoy the joy of cooking with Easy Indian Cooking: 100 Vegetarian Dishes on A Budget. Perfect for family meals, gatherings with friends, or solo culinary explorations, this book is your guide to creating delicious, affordable, and nutritious vegetarian dishes.

Get ready to spice up your cooking and embark on a flavorful journey!

• Language: English
• Publisher: BHASKAR BORA
• Release date: Jun 23, 2024
• ISBN: 9798227722690

BHASKAR BORA

We cannot control what the universe throws at us but how we react to those curve balls defines who we are and what we make out of our lives. Just when life seemed rosy and the sun was shining, he sustained a severe spinal cord injury in July 2019 following an operation, which left him with paralysis of both legs, a non-functioning right hand and a long stay in the hospital, eventually leading to a forced medical retirement from his medical career and a wheelchair in place of a sports car. He had to undergo multiple operations but is now permanently disabled. Two months after his injury he was also diagnosed with cancer of the Thyroid for which he needed further operations. Poorer financially but richer in life experiences, he is now a voice for the disabled. He wrote his first book 'The Second Chance in Life' as an honest reflection of his life experiences to motivate people that every adversity can still be turned into an opportunity. That it is important to be filled with gratitude and appreciation for all the things that we take for granted. He also blogs on his websites www.drbhaskarbora.com & www.thesecondchanceinlife.com In his own words, he says "The sun was shining on my life, everything looked rosy. Money was plenty and worries scarce. I had a dream career, a beautiful family, the blessings of my parents and the love of my friends What more could I ask for? When things go well in life, you assume you are in control. I thought so too. But when faced with unprecedented situations and overwhelming emotions, it is important to maintain trust in yourself and keep moving forward. When storms come, an eagle flies higher in order to rise above the turbulence, while a mouse hides in a corner. I had to become that eagle and soar higher, not be cornered and crushed in the storm of life. Believing in myself was the only way. Maybe this was a lesson. Maybe this was a lesson to find a bigger purpose and achieve a bigger dream. Miracles, big and small, happen every day but often we are not receptive enough to understand and appreciate them. My books are a testament to all the different things that I have learned and experienced and now want to share with my readers honestly and practically. Join me in this journey."

Book preview

Easy Indian Cooking

100 Vegetarian Dishes

On A Budget

Bhaskar Bora

Table of Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1: Introduction to Indian Cooking

Chapter 2: Breakfast Dishes

Chapter 3: Snacks and Appetizers

Chapter 4: Main Courses

Chapter 5: Regional Specialties

Chapter 6: Festive Feasts

Chapter 7: Street Food Favorites

Chapter 8: Healthy Options

Chapter 9: Quick and Easy Meals

Chapter 10: Lunchbox Ideas

Chapter 11: Party Platters

Chapter 12: Seasonal Dishes

Chapter 13: Kids’ Favorites

Chapter 14: Festive Favorites

Chapter 15: Beverages

Chapter 16: Cooking Techniques

Chapter 17: Cooking Tips

Chapter 18: Essential Indian Spices

Chapter 19: Cooking with Leftovers

Chapter 20: Cooking for Special Diets

Chapter 21: Cooking for Beginners

Chapter 22: Cooking for Large Groups

Chapter 23: Exploring Regional Indian Cuisine

Chapter 24: Fusion Indian Cuisine

Chapter 25: Cooking with Herbs

Chapter 26: Cooking for Festivals

Chapter 27: Cooking with Kids

Epilogue

References

Copyright Information

Prologue

Welcome to Easy Indian Cooking: 100 Vegetarian Dishes On A Budget. This book is a culinary journey through the vibrant and diverse flavors of India, designed for those who want to enjoy delicious, nutritious, and affordable meals without compromising on taste or quality. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this book offers something for everyone.

Indian cuisine is renowned for its rich history, complex flavors, and the artful use of spices. Each region of India has its own unique culinary traditions, influenced by geography, culture, and history. From the spicy curries of the South to the hearty breads of the North, from the tangy dishes of the West to the sweet and savory treats of the East, Indian food is a celebration of diversity.

In today's fast-paced world, finding the time and resources to cook healthy meals can be challenging. However, with a little planning and the right recipes, cooking on a budget can be both enjoyable and rewarding. This book is your guide to creating delicious vegetarian dishes that are not only easy to prepare but also kind to your wallet. We've focused on using readily available ingredients and simple techniques to make cooking accessible to everyone.

Each recipe in this book is carefully crafted to ensure a balance of flavors, nutritional value, and cost-effectiveness. You'll find detailed instructions, ingredient lists, and tips to help you along the way. Additionally, we've included information on the calorie count and cost per serving for each dish, making it easier for you to plan your meals.

One of the joys of cooking is the ability to share food with loved ones. These recipes are perfect for family meals, gatherings with friends, or even solo dining experiences. We've also included chapters dedicated to regional specialties, festive feasts, street food favorites, and healthy options, so you can explore the full spectrum of Indian cuisine.

Cooking is more than just preparing food; it's an expression of love and creativity. As you embark on this culinary adventure, we encourage you to experiment with flavors, adapt recipes to your taste, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen.

Thank you for choosing this book. We hope it inspires you to create delicious meals and discover the joy of cooking Indian food. Let's get started on this flavorful journey together!

Happy Cooking!

Bhaskar Bora

Introduction

Brief History of Vegetarianism in India

India has a long and rich history of vegetarianism, deeply rooted in its cultural and religious practices. Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, three major religions that originated in India, have played a significant role in promoting vegetarianism. These religions advocate non-violence and respect for all living beings, principles that extend to dietary habits.

Vegetarianism in India is not just about abstaining from meat; it is a way of life. The Indian diet is incredibly diverse, with each region offering a unique array of vegetarian dishes. From the hearty lentil-based dishes of the north to the coconut-infused curries of the south, vegetarianism in India is a celebration of flavours, colours, and textures.

Importance of Vegetarian Diet in Indian Culture

A vegetarian diet is considered wholesome and balanced, often seen as a way to maintain good health and spiritual well-being. The Indian vegetarian diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy products, ensuring a wide variety of nutrients. Traditional Indian cuisine also incorporates a variety of spices, not only enhancing flavour but also offering medicinal benefits.

Vegetarian meals are integral to Indian festivals, rituals, and daily life. Whether it's the simple roti and sabzi (bread and vegetable) of a daily meal or the elaborate vegetarian feasts during festivals like Diwali and Navratri, vegetarianism is woven into the fabric of Indian society.

Benefits of Cooking on a Budget

Cooking on a budget doesn't mean compromising on taste or nutrition. Many traditional Indian vegetarian dishes are inherently affordable and nutritious. Using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients can significantly reduce costs while ensuring freshness and flavour.

Cooking on a budget encourages creativity and resourcefulness. It teaches us to make the most of what we have and appreciate the simple pleasures of homemade food. With careful planning and smart shopping, you can create delicious and healthy meals that won't break the bank.

Chapter 1: Breakfast Delights

Poha (Flattened Rice)

Brief History

Poha is a popular breakfast dish in western India, particularly in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Made from flattened rice, it is light, nutritious, and easy to prepare. Poha has been a staple in Indian households for centuries, loved for its simplicity and versatility. It can be customized with various vegetables, spices, and garnishes, making it a favourite for breakfast or a light snack.

List of Ingredients

- 1 cup poha (flattened rice)

- 1 tablespoon oil

- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 1 green chilli, finely chopped

- 1 small potato, peeled and diced

- Salt to taste

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped

- Grated coconut for garnish (optional)

- Sev (crunchy chickpea noodles) for garnish (optional)

Process of Cooking

1. Preparation: Rinse the poha in a colander under running water. Drain and let it sit for a few minutes to soften.

2. Tempering: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add cumin seeds and sauté until aromatic.

3. Sautéing: Add the chopped onions and green chili. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.

4. Adding Vegetables: Add the diced potato and turmeric powder. Cook until the potatoes are tender.

5. Mixing Poha: Add the softened poha to the pan. Season with salt and mix well. Cook for a few minutes until the poha is heated through.

6. Finishing: Turn off the heat. Add lemon juice and mix well. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves, grated coconut, and sev if using.

Calorie Count

- Approximately 250 calories per serving.

Cost of the Dish

- Approximately $2 per serving.

Upma (Semolina Dish)

Brief History

Upma, also known as uppittu, is a traditional South Indian breakfast dish made from semolina (rava or suji). It is a versatile dish, often prepared with various vegetables, spices, and sometimes even nuts and lentils. Upma is known for its comforting, warm texture and is a favourite across many Indian households.

List of Ingredients

- 1 cup semolina (rava or suji)

- 2 tablespoons oil

- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1/2 teaspoon urad dal (split black gram)

- 1/2 teaspoon chana dal (split Bengal gram)

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 1 green chili, finely chopped

- 1 small carrot, peeled and diced

- 1/4 cup green peas

- 2 cups water

- Salt to taste

- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped

- Lemon wedges for serving

Process of Cooking

1. Roasting Semolina: Dry roast the semolina in a pan over medium heat until it turns light golden and aromatic. Set aside.

2. Tempering: Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add cumin seeds, urad dal, and chana dal. Sauté until the dals turn golden brown.

3. Sautéing: Add the chopped onions and green chili. Sauté until the onions become translucent.

4. Adding Vegetables: Add the diced carrot and green peas. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables are tender.

5. Adding Water: Add 2 cups of water to the pan and bring to a boil. Add salt to taste.

6. Mixing Semolina: Gradually add the roasted semolina to the boiling water, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the semolina absorbs the water and the upma reaches the desired consistency.

7. Finishing: Turn off the heat. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with lemon wedges.

Calorie Count

- Approximately 300 calories per serving.

Cost of