10 Potluck Recipe Ideas Indian: Impress Your Guests with Authentic Flavors

Adam Mark
19 Min Read
Photo by amirali mirhashemian

Indian cuisine is renowned for its vibrant spices, aromatic flavors, and diverse culinary traditions. When it comes to potlucks, Indian dishes offer a tantalizing array of options that will delight your guests. Here are 10 potluck recipe ideas Indian that are sure to impress:

10 Potluck Recipe Ideas Indian:

1. Chicken Tikka Masala

potluck-recipe-ideas-indian
by Food Wishes

This classic dish features tender chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, grilled to perfection, and simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce. Its rich and flavorful gravy makes it a crowd-pleaser.

2. Paneer Butter Masala

by HomeCookingShow

For a vegetarian alternative, try this creamy and flavorful dish. Cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) are cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce with butter, spices, and cream.

3. Samosas

by Yummyyy y



These flaky pastries filled with savory fillings such as potatoes, peas, and spices are a perfect appetizer or snack. Serve them with a tangy chutney for dipping.

4. Chana Masala

Banglar Rannaghor

This hearty and aromatic dish features chickpeas simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with spices and herbs. Its rich and comforting flavors make it a popular potluck choice.

5. Dal Makhani

by Your Food Lab

A classic North Indian dish, dal makhani is a creamy and flavorful lentil stew. Black lentils are simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce with butter, cream, and spices.

6. Biryani

Photo by Shreyak Singh

This fragrant and flavorful rice dish is a staple of Indian cuisine. Basmati rice is layered with meat, vegetables, and spices, and cooked in a sealed pot to create a delectable medley of flavors.

7. Raita

by Cooking Studio by Umme

This refreshing yogurt-based condiment is a perfect accompaniment to spicy dishes. It’s made with yogurt, cucumbers, and spices, and adds a cooling and tangy touch to your meal.

8. Gulab Jamun

by Spice Bangla

These sweet and indulgent milk dumplings are a popular Indian dessert. They’re made with milk solids, flour, and sugar, and fried until golden brown, then soaked in a sweet syrup.

9. Jalebi

by Aysha Siddika

Another classic Indian dessert, jalebi are crispy and sweet fried batter spirals. They’re made with a batter of flour, yogurt, and sugar, and fried until golden brown, then soaked in a sweet syrup.

10. Rasmalai

by Mukti’s Cooking World

This luscious dessert features flat discs of chenna (Indian cottage cheese) that are simmered in a creamy milk-based sauce with saffron and cardamom. Its delicate and flavorful taste is sure to impress your guests.

Tips for Success:

  • Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spices, herbs, and vegetables will enhance the flavors of your dishes.
  • Marinate your meats: Marinating meats in yogurt and spices before cooking will tenderize them and add flavor.
  • Cook with patience: Indian dishes often require time to simmer and develop their flavors. Don’t rush the process.
  • Serve with accompaniments: Offer a variety of accompaniments such as chutney, raita, and naan bread to enhance the flavors of your dishes.
  • Have fun: Cooking Indian food should be an enjoyable experience. Experiment with different spices and flavors to create your unique dishes.

How to make this 10 type of potluck recipe ideas Indian

1. Chicken Tikka Masala

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons garam masala
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (13.5 ounce) can coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
  2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes more.
  4. Add the coconut milk and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
  5. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for 15 minutes, or until cooked through. Serve with rice or naan bread.

2. Paneer Butter Masala

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons garam masala
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (13.5 ounce) can coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the paneer, yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well to coat the paneer. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
  2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the paneer and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the paneer from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes more.
  4. Add the coconut milk and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
  5. Return the paneer to the skillet and simmer for 15 minutes, or until heated through. Stir in the butter and serve with rice or naan bread.

3. Samosas

Ingredients:

For the dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil, plus more for greasing the pan

For the filling:

  • 1 pound potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped carrots
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. To make the dough, combine the flour and salt in a large bowl. Add the oil and rub it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add enough water to form a dough. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Divide the dough into small balls and set aside.
  2. To make the filling, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and coriander seeds and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the onion and carrots and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the potatoes, peas, turmeric powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.
  3. To assemble the samosas, roll out each ball of dough into a thin circle. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of the circle and fold the dough over to form a triangle. Crimp the edges to seal.
  4. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 375 degrees F. Fry the samosas in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain the samosas on paper towels and serve with chutney.

4. Chana Masala

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions:

  1. Drain the chickpeas and rinse them well.
  2. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the tomatoes, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes more.
  4. Add the chickpeas and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the chickpeas are tender.
  5. Stir in the cilantro and serve with rice or naan bread.

5. Dal Makhani

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup black lentils, picked over and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the lentils and pick them over to remove any stones or debris.
  2. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the tomatoes, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes more.
  4. Add the lentils and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream and butter. Cook for 5 minutes more, or until the dal has thickened.
  6. Stir in the cilantro and serve with rice or naan bread.

6. Biryani

Ingredients:

For the rice:

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the meat:

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 cup water

For the vegetables:

  • 1 cup chopped carrots
  • 1 cup chopped potatoes
  • 1 cup chopped green beans

Instructions:

  1. To make the rice, rinse the rice several times until the water runs clear. Drain the rice and set aside.
  2. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the rice and salt and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add 2 cups of water to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.
  3. To make the meat, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes more.
  5. Add the chicken and water to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
  6. To make the vegetables, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the carrots, potatoes, and green beans and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  7. To assemble the biryani, spread the rice in a large baking dish.

To assemble the biryani, spread the rice in a large baking dish. Top with the meat and vegetables. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 375 degrees F for 30 minutes, or until the biryani is heated through.

7. Raita

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon black salt
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the yogurt, cucumber, onion, cilantro, cumin seeds, black salt, and salt. Mix well.
  2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

8. Gulab Jamun

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup milk powder
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup semolina flour
  • 1/4 cup ghee, melted
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the milk powder, all-purpose flour, semolina flour, ghee, and sugar. Mix well.
  2. Add the water and knead to form a dough. The dough should be soft and pliable.
  3. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten them into discs.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 375 degrees F. Fry the gulab jamuns in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  5. Drain the gulab jamuns on paper towels.
  6. To make the syrup, combine the sugar, water, and cardamom powder in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened.
  7. Pour the syrup over the gulab jamuns and let them soak for at least 30 minutes before serving.

9. Jalebi

Ingredients:

For the batter:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup semolina flour
  • 1/4 cup yogurt
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For the syrup:

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder

Instructions:

  1. To make the batter, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina flour, yogurt, water, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda in a bowl. Mix well until a smooth batter forms.
  2. Cover the batter and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
  3. To make the syrup, combine the sugar, water, saffron strands, and cardamom powder in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 375 degrees F.
  5. Pour the batter into a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe the batter into the hot oil in a circular motion to form jalebis.
  6. Fry the jalebis until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  7. Drain the jalebis on paper towels and immediately transfer them to the syrup. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes before serving.

10. Rasmalai

Ingredients:

For the chenna:

  • 1-gallon whole milk
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice

For the syrup:

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands

For the garnishing:

  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
  • 1/4 cup chopped almonds
  • 1 tablespoon silver leaf

Instructions:

  1. To make the chenna, bring the milk to a boil in a large pot. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. The milk will start to curdle and separate.
  2. Line a colander with cheesecloth and pour the curdled milk into the colander. Let the whey drain for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Transfer the chenna to a bowl and knead it until it becomes smooth and pliable. Divide the chenna into small balls and flatten them into discs.
  4. To make the syrup, combine the sugar, water, cardamom powder, and saffron strands in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened.
  5. Add the chenna discs to the syrup and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the chenna has absorbed the syrup.
  6. Transfer the ras malai to a serving dish and garnish with the pistachios, almonds, and silver leaf. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

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Hi I’m Adam Mark, a highly accomplished Food and Nutrition expert with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field. I hold a Master of Science degree in Nutrition from Cornell University, where he specialized in the study of human metabolism and the role of nutrition in health and disease. My passion for nutrition began at an early age, as he grew up in a family that placed a strong emphasis on healthy eating. I pursued My interest in nutrition further by obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science from the University of California, Davis. During my undergraduate studies, I gained valuable experience working as a research assistant in the university's Food Science and Technology Department, where I conducted experiments on the nutritional composition of various foods.