3 Protein-Rich Vegan Recipes to Try This Winter

Indian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, vibrant spices, and diverse culinary techniques. For those seeking vegan options, the possibilities are endless. In this article, we present three delicious vegan Indian recipes featuring rajma (red kidney beans), chhole (chickpeas), and soya chunks, each offering unique taste profiles and nutritional benefits. These recipes will not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide a wholesome, plant-based meal for any occasion.

Rajma Masala – A Hearty Kidney Bean Curry

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rajma (red kidney beans), soaked overnight
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 3 medium tomatoes, pureed
• 1-inch ginger, minced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 2 tbsp Coconut oil
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 2 cups water
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

• Pressure cook the soaked rajma with water and a pinch of salt for 15 minutes or until tender. Set aside.
• Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add onions and sauté until golden brown.
• Stir in the minced ginger, garlic, and green chilies, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
• Add the tomato puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Cook until the oil separates.
• Add the boiled rajma along with its cooking liquid. Mix well and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
• Sprinkle garam masala, adjust salt, and stir well. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
• Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.

Chhole Pindi – Spiced Chickpea Delight

Ingredients:

• 2 cups chickpeas, soaked overnight
• 2 tbsp tea leaves tied in a muslin cloth (optional, for color)
• 2 medium onions, sliced
• 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 3 tbsp oil
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 2 tsp chhole masala
• 1 tsp amchur (dry mango powder)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

• Boil the chickpeas with the muslin cloth of tea leaves (if using) and salt until soft. Discard the tea leaves and set aside.
• Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they crackle, add onions and sauté until golden.
• Add garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Cook for 2 minutes.
• Stir in the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and chhole masala. Cook until the oil separates.
• Add the boiled chickpeas and mix well. Simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
• Sprinkle amchur powder, mix, and adjust seasoning.
• Garnish with fresh coriander.
• Serve with jeera rice or paratha.

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Soya Chunk Curry – Protein-Packed Goodness

Ingredients:

• 1 cup soya chunks
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 3 medium tomatoes, pureed
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• 1 cup coconut milk
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

1. Soak soya chunks in hot water for 10 minutes. Squeeze out excess water and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they crackle, add onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and green chilies, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomato puree, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Cook until the oil separates.
5. Add the soya chunks and mix well to coat with the masala.
6. Pour in coconut milk, sprinkle garam masala, and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Crush kasuri methi between your palms and sprinkle over the curry. Adjust salt and stir.
8. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve with paratha or steamed rice.

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Each recipe highlights a versatile ingredient with its distinct taste and health benefits. Rajma is rich in fiber and iron, making it a heart-healthy choice. Chhole packs a punch of protein and essential vitamins, while soya chunks are a powerhouse of plant-based protein, ideal for those looking to enhance their nutritional intake.

Enjoy these recipes as part of your regular meal rotation or as a treat for special occasions. Indian vegan cuisine truly celebrates the magic of spices and wholesome ingredients.