Burrito Bowl Veg Recipes of India for Healthy Meals

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Indian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, spices, and textures that come together to create unforgettable meals. In recent years, the burrito bowl has taken the culinary world by storm as a versatile, healthy, and customizable dish.

Combining the essence of a traditional burrito without the tortilla wrap, burrito bowls allow you to enjoy a medley of ingredients layered with rice, beans, fresh vegetables, and protein. But what if we infused this concept with the bold and aromatic flavors of India?

Welcome to the world of Indian-inspired vegetarian burrito bowl recipes—a perfect fusion of comfort and exotic spices. These recipes are packed with nutrient-rich vegetables, fragrant basmati rice, hearty legumes, and robust Indian spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala.

Whether you are a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add some excitement to your meal prep, these bowls are easy to make, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Dive in and discover how Indian flavors can transform a simple burrito bowl into a culinary adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Indian vegetarian burrito bowls are a fantastic choice for anyone who craves flavorful, wholesome meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

  • Versatile and customizable: You can mix and match vegetables and spices to suit your taste and dietary needs.
  • Nutritious and balanced: Combining protein-rich legumes, fiber-packed veggies, and complex carbs ensures sustained energy.
  • Quick and easy: Perfect for meal prepping, these bowls come together in under 40 minutes.
  • Bold Indian flavors: The use of traditional spices adds depth and warmth, making every bite a delight.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
  • 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or canned, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 cup chopped cauliflower florets
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional for heat)
  • 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
  • 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
  • 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 cup yogurt or vegan yogurt
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp chaat masala
  • 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to preference)
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • Optional toppings: sliced avocado, radishes, roasted peanuts, or sev (crispy chickpea noodles)

Equipment

  • Large saucepan or pot with lid (for cooking rice)
  • Medium skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Grater (for ginger)
  • Spoon and spatula
  • Serving bowls or meal prep containers

Instructions

  1. Cook the basmati rice: In a large pot, add rinsed basmati rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is fluffy and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it rest covered.
  2. Prepare the spiced vegetable mix: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
  3. Sauté aromatics: Add chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and green chili to the skillet. Cook until the onions turn translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add spices and vegetables: Stir in turmeric, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well. Then add diced tomatoes, cauliflower florets, and bell peppers. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
  5. Incorporate chickpeas: Add the cooked chickpeas to the skillet. Stir to coat them with the spices and vegetables. Cook for another 5 minutes to heat through.
  6. Prepare the yogurt dressing: In a small bowl, whisk the yogurt with lemon juice, a pinch of chaat masala, and a little salt. Set aside.
  7. Assemble the burrito bowls: In serving bowls or meal prep containers, start with a base of fluffy basmati rice. Top with the spiced vegetable and chickpea mixture.
  8. Add fresh elements: Garnish each bowl with chopped cucumber, fresh coriander leaves, and a drizzle of the yogurt dressing.
  9. Optional toppings: Add sliced avocado, radishes, roasted peanuts, or sev for extra texture and flavor.
  10. Serve immediately: Enjoy warm or refrigerate for meal prep throughout the week.

Tips & Variations

“Feel free to swap out the cauliflower for other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or green beans depending on what’s in season or your preference.”

  • Make it vegan: Use plant-based yogurt or a tahini drizzle instead of dairy yogurt for a creamy finish.
  • Swap the chickpeas: Try black beans or kidney beans for a different legume texture and taste.
  • Spice level: Adjust the green chili and red chili powder according to your heat tolerance.
  • Rice alternatives: Use brown basmati rice or quinoa for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.
  • Batch cooking: Cook extra rice and vegetable mix to save time on busy days.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per serving
Calories 420 kcal
Protein 15 g
Carbohydrates 65 g
Dietary Fiber 12 g
Fat 8 g
Saturated Fat 1.5 g
Sodium 350 mg
Vitamin C 45% DV
Iron 20% DV

Serving Suggestions

This Indian vegetarian burrito bowl pairs wonderfully with a refreshing side salad or a tangy chutney. A simple cucumber raita or mint-cilantro chutney can elevate the flavors even further.

For a more filling meal, serve with warm naan or stuffed parathas on the side. You can also enjoy it alongside a light dal (lentil curry) or a bowl of spiced yogurt soup called chaas.

To complement the meal with a sweet finish, try one of my favorite desserts such as the Lemon Straws Recipe or indulge in some delightful Kolasnittar Recipe.

Conclusion

Indian-inspired vegetarian burrito bowls offer an exciting and nutritious way to enjoy the best of both worlds: the convenience of a burrito bowl and the rich, aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine. These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or impressing guests with a colorful and wholesome dish.

The combination of spiced chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and fluffy basmati rice ensures a satisfying meal that is both hearty and light.

Embrace the versatility by experimenting with different vegetables and spice blends to suit your taste. As you explore these delicious bowls, you might also want to check out other unique recipes like the Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe or the creamy and indulgent Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for even more culinary inspiration.

Happy cooking and enjoy your flavorful journey!

📖 Recipe Card: Burrito Bowl Veg Recipes of India

Description: A vibrant and flavorful Indian-inspired vegetarian burrito bowl combining spiced lentils, basmati rice, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a wholesome and easy meal with authentic Indian spices.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 1 cup cooked masoor dal (red lentils)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 cup chopped tomatoes
  • 1 cup chopped cucumber
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt (optional)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions and set aside.
  2. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds until they splutter.
  3. Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until golden.
  4. Stir in garam masala and turmeric powder; cook for 1 minute.
  5. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and saucy.
  6. Mix in cooked lentils and simmer for 5 minutes; season with salt.
  7. Assemble bowl with rice, lentil mixture, cucumber, and cilantro.
  8. Add a dollop of yogurt if desired and serve warm.

Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 55 g

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Marta K

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