Bachelor Recipes Indian Vegetarian: Quick & Easy Meals

Updated On: October 5, 2025

Living the bachelor life often means juggling a busy schedule with the need for quick, easy, and satisfying meals. Indian vegetarian cuisine offers a treasure trove of recipes that are not only flavorful but also simple to prepare.

Whether you’re new to cooking or just want to save time without compromising on taste, these bachelor-friendly Indian vegetarian recipes are perfect for you. From one-pot meals to instant snacks, these dishes require minimal ingredients, little prep time, and deliver maximum satisfaction.

Embrace the vibrant spices and wholesome ingredients that Indian cooking provides and elevate your solo dining experience with ease and joy.

In this guide, we’ll explore some versatile, nutritious, and delicious Indian vegetarian recipes tailored specifically for bachelors. Plus, you’ll find tips and variations to customize each dish according to your taste and pantry availability.

Ready to kickstart your culinary journey? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love These Recipes

These bachelor recipes are designed with simplicity and nutrition in mind. Most of them require fewer ingredients, minimal cooking techniques, and can be whipped up in under 30 minutes.

You won’t need to be a master chef to create these meals — the flavors do the hard work for you.

Moreover, these recipes focus on vegetarian ingredients that are budget-friendly and easy to store, making grocery shopping and meal prep hassle-free. Whether you crave a spicy curry, comforting rice dish, or a protein-packed snack, these recipes cover all bases.

Finally, these meals are easily customizable. You can substitute ingredients depending on what you have at home, making these recipes both versatile and forgiving — ideal for any bachelor navigating the kitchen for the first time or on a tight schedule.

Ingredients

  • Basmati rice – 1 cup
  • Chickpeas (canned or boiled) – 1 cup
  • Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
  • Tomatoes – 2 medium, pureed or chopped
  • Green chili – 1, finely chopped (optional)
  • Ginger-garlic paste – 1 teaspoon
  • Turmeric powder – ½ teaspoon
  • Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Coriander powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Cumin seeds – 1 teaspoon
  • Garam masala – ½ teaspoon
  • Salt – to taste
  • Cooking oil – 2 tablespoons
  • Fresh coriander leaves – handful, chopped
  • Yogurt – ½ cup (optional)
  • Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, potatoes) – 1 cup, chopped (optional)

Equipment

  • Medium-sized saucepan or pressure cooker
  • Frying pan or skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Strainer (for rinsing rice and chickpeas)
  • Serving plates and bowls

Instructions

  1. Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 15 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Mix in the ginger-garlic paste and green chili, cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
  5. Add the pureed tomatoes, turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook the mixture on medium heat until the oil separates from the masala, about 7-8 minutes.
  6. Optional: Stir in mixed vegetables and cook for 5 minutes to soften them.
  7. Add the chickpeas and mix well. If using canned chickpeas, rinse them before adding. Cook for another 3-4 minutes.
  8. In a separate saucepan or pressure cooker, add the soaked rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered until rice is cooked and water is absorbed (about 15-20 minutes). If using a pressure cooker, cook for 2 whistles.
  9. Once rice is ready, gently mix it with the chickpea masala, adding garam masala and fresh coriander leaves. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in ½ cup yogurt at this stage.
  10. Cover and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  11. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

“Using pre-cooked or canned chickpeas drastically reduces cooking time without compromising taste.”

  • Spice level: Adjust the green chili and red chili powder according to your heat preference.
  • Vegetable additions: Add peas, carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers to increase the veggie quotient.
  • Protein boost: Toss in paneer cubes or tofu for extra protein.
  • One-pot option: Try cooking the entire dish in a pressure cooker to save time and reduce cleanup.
  • Flavor twist: Add a pinch of saffron soaked in warm milk to the rice for a rich aroma.
  • Leftovers: Use leftover rice and masala as a filling for wraps or stuffed parathas.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (approx.)
Calories 350 kcal
Protein 12 g
Carbohydrates 55 g
Fat 6 g
Fiber 8 g
Iron 3 mg
Calcium 80 mg

Serving Suggestions

This hearty and flavorful chickpea rice pairs beautifully with a simple cucumber raita or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, add a side of roasted papad or a bowl of tangy pickle.

If you want to indulge in a light dessert afterward, try the delightful Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe for a comforting finish. Or, for a quick snack, check out the Glazed Twist Donut Recipe to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Conclusion

Cooking as a bachelor doesn’t have to be daunting or time-consuming. These Indian vegetarian recipes prove that with just a handful of ingredients and simple techniques, you can create delicious, nutritious meals that fit your lifestyle.

Whether you’re a novice or simply looking for quick meal ideas, these dishes offer flexibility, flavor, and satisfaction all in one.

Remember, cooking is about enjoying the process as much as the final dish. Experiment with different spices or vegetables and make the recipes your own.

And if you ever want to try something different, explore recipes like the Half Runner Beans Recipe or the Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe for more inspiration.

Happy cooking and bon appétit!

📖 Recipe Card: Masala Vegetable Upma

Description: A quick and easy Indian vegetarian breakfast perfect for bachelors. This savory semolina dish is packed with vegetables and spices for a wholesome meal.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup semolina (rava)
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon urad dal
  • 1 green chili, chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (carrot, peas, beans), chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 2 cups water
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds and urad dal.
  2. When they splutter, add green chili, ginger, and onion; sauté until onion is translucent.
  3. Add mixed vegetables and turmeric powder; cook for 3 minutes.
  4. Add water and salt; bring to a boil.
  5. Slowly add semolina while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
  6. Cook on low heat, stirring, until the mixture thickens and semolina is cooked.
  7. Turn off heat and garnish with chopped coriander.
  8. Serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 7 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 45 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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