Black Pepper Indian Veg Recipes for Flavorful Meals

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Indian cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and aromatic spices, and black pepper is one such spice that adds a distinctive warmth and piquancy to dishes. In Indian vegetarian cooking, black pepper is not just a seasoning but a powerful ingredient that enhances the taste and health benefits of the meal.

From stir-fries to rich curries, black pepper lends a subtle heat and depth that make these dishes irresistible. If you’re looking to spice up your vegetarian meals with a bold yet balanced flavor, black pepper Indian veg recipes are the perfect choice.

In this post, we’ll explore three delicious and easy-to-make black pepper Indian vegetarian dishes that are packed with flavor and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Black pepper Indian veg recipes offer a wonderful blend of spice, aroma, and health benefits. Black pepper is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, making these dishes not only tasty but good for your well-being.

These recipes are perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors without overwhelming heat. They are easy to prepare, use readily available ingredients, and bring out the best in everyday vegetables.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these recipes will add a new dimension to your meal planning.

Ingredients

Black Pepper Paneer Stir Fry

  • 200g paneer, cubed
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tbsp oil (vegetable or mustard oil)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Black Pepper Vegetable Curry

  • 1 cup cauliflower florets
  • 1 cup green beans, chopped
  • 1 large tomato, pureed
  • 1 tsp black pepper powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh curry leaves
  • 1 cup water

Black Pepper Masala Dal

  • 1 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 tsp black peppercorns, coarsely crushed
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 2 dried red chilies
  • 1 tbsp ghee or oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Equipment

  • Non-stick frying pan or wok
  • Medium-sized saucepan with lid
  • Pressure cooker (optional for dal)
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Spice grinder or mortar and pestle
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Instructions

Black Pepper Paneer Stir Fry

  1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
  2. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 5-6 minutes until they soften but retain crunch.
  4. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to mix with veggies.
  5. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well and cook for another 3-4 minutes until paneer is lightly golden.
  6. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot.

Black Pepper Vegetable Curry

  1. Heat oil in a saucepan. Add mustard seeds and wait until they pop.
  2. Add curry leaves and sauté for 30 seconds.
  3. Add pureed tomatoes, turmeric, and salt. Cook until oil separates from the masala (about 5-6 minutes).
  4. Add cauliflower and green beans. Stir to coat with the tomato mixture.
  5. Add water, black pepper powder, and garam masala. Cover and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  6. Adjust seasoning and serve warm.

Black Pepper Masala Dal

  1. Wash dal thoroughly. Pressure cook with 2 cups water and turmeric until soft (about 3-4 whistles) or simmer in a pot for 45 minutes.
  2. Heat ghee or oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and dried red chilies. Let them splutter.
  3. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  4. Add tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy.
  5. Add crushed black peppercorns and salt. Stir well.
  6. Pour this tempering into cooked dal. Mix well and simmer for 5 minutes.
  7. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with rice or roti.

Tips & Variations

For an extra kick, toast whole black peppercorns lightly before grinding—they release more aroma and flavor.

You can substitute paneer with tofu for a vegan option in the stir fry. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the vegetable curry brightens the flavors wonderfully.

For the dal, try adding a pinch of asafoetida (hing) during tempering for a traditional touch. Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite vegetables like carrots, peas, or potatoes.

Using freshly ground black pepper is key to achieving the best flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Recipe Calories (per serving) Protein Carbohydrates Fat Fiber
Black Pepper Paneer Stir Fry 280 kcal 18g 12g 18g 3g
Black Pepper Vegetable Curry 150 kcal 5g 20g 6g 6g
Black Pepper Masala Dal 220 kcal 14g 30g 5g 8g

Serving Suggestions

These black pepper Indian vegetarian dishes pair beautifully with steamed basmati rice, jeera rice, or Indian flatbreads like chapati and naan. For a complete meal, serve the Black Pepper Masala Dal with a side of sautéed greens or a cucumber raita to balance the spicy notes.

The paneer stir fry works well as a side dish or a light main course, accompanied by a fresh salad or pickles. Don’t forget to try these along with some refreshing drinks or desserts like our Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe for a delightful finish.

Conclusion

Black pepper enhances Indian vegetarian dishes with its warm, pungent flavor, making everyday meals exciting and flavorful. These recipes bring together health benefits, ease of preparation, and authentic tastes that are sure to impress your family and guests.

Whether you’re craving a quick stir fry or a comforting dal, black pepper adds a unique twist that elevates traditional Indian cooking. Try these recipes to enjoy the perfect balance of spice and nutrition that black pepper offers.

For more inspiring recipes to complement your meals, check out our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or the indulgent Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy the bold flavors of black pepper in your vegetarian kitchen!

đź“– Recipe Card: Black Pepper Indian Veg Recipe

Description: A spicy and flavorful Indian vegetarian dish featuring black pepper and mixed vegetables. Perfect as a side or main dish with rice or roti.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets
  • 1 cup green beans, chopped
  • 1 cup carrots, diced
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds until they splutter.
  2. Add onions and green chilies; sauté until onions turn golden.
  3. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 2 minutes.
  4. Add tomatoes and cook until soft.
  5. Add cauliflower, green beans, carrots, turmeric, salt, and black pepper powder.
  6. Mix well and cook for 2 minutes.
  7. Pour water, cover, and simmer until vegetables are tender.
  8. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 25 g

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Marta K

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