Best Vegan Tiffin Recipe for Healthy, Tasty Meals

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Looking for a delicious, wholesome, and easy-to-make vegan tiffin recipe? You’re in the right place!

Tiffin, a beloved staple in Indian cuisine, is essentially a light meal or snack that can be enjoyed any time of day. Our best vegan tiffin recipe takes traditional flavors and ingredients, transforms them into a plant-based delight, and packs them into a perfect lunchbox treat or snack.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more plant-based options to your diet, this recipe is flavorful, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that will keep you energized throughout the day.

This vegan tiffin is not only vibrant and tasty but also versatile. You can tweak the spices, add your favorite veggies, or pair it with chutneys and salads for a complete meal.

Ready to impress your taste buds with this flavorful, easy-to-make vegan tiffin? Let’s dive right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan tiffin recipe is a perfect blend of nutrition, taste, and simplicity. It’s:

  • Quick and easy to prepare – ideal for busy weekdays or meal prep.
  • Rich in plant-based protein from chickpeas and lentils.
  • Full of vibrant spices that make every bite exciting.
  • Highly customizable to suit your preferred spice level and vegetable choice.
  • Perfect for on-the-go meals – compact, filling, and mess-free.
  • Gluten-free and oil-light for a healthier option.

If you love exploring vegan recipes that are both nutritious and flavorful, don’t miss out on our other favorites like the Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe or the Collard Green Casserole Recipes. They pair wonderfully with this tiffin for a complete plant-based meal experience.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or canned, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 cup cooked basmati rice (preferably cooled)
  • 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
  • 1 small carrot, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil or any neutral oil
  • Juice of half a lemon

Equipment

  • Large non-stick skillet or frying pan
  • Medium saucepan (for boiling potatoes and carrots)
  • Wooden spatula or spoon
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowl
  • Serving tiffin box or airtight container

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Boil the diced potatoes and chopped carrots in salted water until tender but firm, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat oil in a skillet: Add the coconut oil to a large non-stick skillet and warm over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them crackle for about 30 seconds.
  3. Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion, garlic, grated ginger, and green chili (if using). Cook until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add spices: Stir in turmeric, garam masala, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
  5. Combine veggies and chickpeas: Add the boiled potatoes, carrots, green peas, and cooked chickpeas to the pan. Mix well to coat everything in the spices.
  6. Cook and mash slightly: Using the back of the spoon, gently mash some of the potatoes and chickpeas for a creamier texture, but keep some chunks for bite. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Add rice and season: Fold in the cooked basmati rice carefully to avoid breaking the grains. Add salt to taste and stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  8. Finish with lemon and cilantro: Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and chopped fresh cilantro for a fresh, tangy flavor.
  9. Cool and pack: Allow the tiffin filling to cool slightly before packing it into your lunchbox or airtight container. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra protein boost, try adding some cooked green lentils or tofu crumbles to your tiffin mix.”

  • Make it spicier: Increase the quantity of green chili or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Change the veggies: Swap carrots and peas for bell peppers, corn, or zucchini depending on your preference and seasonality.
  • Use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free, higher-protein variation.
  • Add nuts: Toasted cashews or peanuts add a wonderful crunch and richness.
  • Storage: This tiffin keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to a month. Reheat gently before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 320 kcal
Protein 12 g
Carbohydrates 50 g
Dietary Fiber 8 g
Fat 6 g
Sodium 300 mg
Vitamin C 20% DV
Iron 15% DV

Serving Suggestions

This vegan tiffin is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

  • Serve with a dollop of vegan yogurt or coconut raita for a cooling contrast.
  • Accompany with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad tossed in lemon juice and chaat masala.
  • Pair with your favorite chutney such as mint-coriander or tamarind chutney for added zing.
  • Enjoy alongside a warm cup of masala chai or your preferred herbal tea.
  • Pack with some crunchy papadums or baked samosas for a complete tiffin experience.

For more inspiration on vegan-friendly dishes, check out our Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe or dive into the comforting Collard Green Casserole Recipes.

Conclusion

This vegan tiffin recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional Indian-style meal that’s completely plant-based, wholesome, and packed with flavor. With its combination of protein-rich chickpeas, hearty vegetables, and fragrant spices, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

The recipe is simple enough for beginners but flexible enough to customize according to your taste and available ingredients.

Whether you’re prepping lunch for work, school, or a picnic, this vegan tiffin offers a satisfying, nutritious option that won’t weigh you down. Plus, it’s a wonderful gateway to exploring more vegan Indian recipes and expanding your culinary horizons.

Don’t forget to browse our collection for other delightful recipes like the Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or the indulgent Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe to complete your plant-based cooking adventure.

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Tiffin Recipe

Description: A delicious and healthy vegan tiffin perfect for lunch or snacks. Packed with nutritious vegetables and spices for a flavorful meal.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 1/2 cup yellow moong dal
  • 1 medium carrot, grated
  • 1/2 cup green peas
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 green chilies, chopped
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 cups water

Instructions

  1. Rinse rice and dal together and soak for 15 minutes.
  2. Heat oil in a pan, add mustard and cumin seeds until they splutter.
  3. Add chopped onions and green chilies; sauté until translucent.
  4. Add grated carrot and green peas; cook for 3 minutes.
  5. Drain rice and dal; add to the pan with turmeric and salt.
  6. Pour in water, bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 20 minutes.
  7. Turn off heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 48 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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