Indian Veg Thali Recipe

An Indian Veg Thali is more than just a meal—it’s a symphony of flavors, colors, and textures served on a single platter. Thali, meaning “plate,” is a traditional way of serving a complete meal in India, offering a balance of flavors and nutrients. This recipe will guide you through creating a classic Indian Veg Thali that includes a variety of dishes, from spicy curries to soothing yogurt, tangy pickles, and sweet desserts.

Components of the Veg Thali:

1. Dal Tadka (Lentil Curry)
2. Paneer Butter Masala (Cottage Cheese in Tomato Gravy)
3. Aloo Gobi (Potato and Cauliflower Stir-Fry)
4. Bhindi Masala (Spiced Okra)
5. Jeera Rice (Cumin-Flavored Rice)
6. Roti (Indian Flatbread)
7. Raita (Yogurt with Cucumber and Carrot)
8. Papad (Crispy Lentil Cracker)
9. Pickle (Achar)
10. Gulab Jamun (Sweet Dumplings) or Rice Kheer (Rice Pudding)

1. Dal Tadka (Lentil Curry)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)
• 2 cups water
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 2 dried red chilies
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• 2 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the dal thoroughly and cook it in a pressure cooker with 2 cups of water, turmeric powder, and salt until soft.
2. In a pan, heat 1 tbsp ghee and add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, dried red chilies, and asafoetida.
3. Add onions and sauté until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until raw smell disappears.
4. Add tomatoes, green chilies, and red chili powder. Cook until tomatoes are soft.
5. Pour the cooked dal into the pan, mix well, and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve hot.

2. Paneer Butter Masala (Cottage Cheese in Tomato Gravy)