Sweet Potato Recipes Indian Vegetarian for Healthy Meals

Updated On: October 1, 2025

Sweet potatoes are a beloved ingredient in Indian vegetarian cuisine, cherished not only for their natural sweetness but also for their versatility and nutritional benefits. These vibrant tubers can be transformed into a variety of mouthwatering dishes that capture the essence of Indian spices and flavors.

Whether you’re craving a hearty curry, a spicy snack, or a comforting side dish, sweet potatoes provide a wonderful canvas for bold spices like cumin, mustard seeds, turmeric, and coriander.

In this blog post, I’ll share some delightful Indian vegetarian sweet potato recipes that are simple to make and packed with flavor. These recipes celebrate the humble sweet potato in all its glory, offering options that suit every meal of the day.

Plus, you’ll get useful tips, variations, and nutritional insights to help you enjoy sweet potatoes in new and exciting ways!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but incredibly nutritious, making them a staple in many Indian vegetarian kitchens. Rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, they support good digestion and immune health.

The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with traditional Indian spices, creating a perfect balance of flavors that’s both comforting and invigorating.

These recipes are easy to prepare, use common pantry ingredients, and are perfect for anyone looking to add wholesome, plant-based meals to their routine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find these dishes rewarding and satisfying.

Plus, sweet potatoes are budget-friendly and widely available year-round, making these recipes practical as well as tasty.

Ingredients

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tbsp oil (mustard oil or vegetable oil preferred)
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
  • Lemon juice, optional, for a fresh zing
  • 1/2 cup peas (optional)
  • 1/2 cup grated coconut (optional, for a tropical twist)

Equipment

  • Large non-stick pan or kadhai
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Peeler
  • Serving dish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sweet potatoes: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Rinse them under cold water and drain well.
  2. Heat the oil: In a large pan or kadhai, heat the oil over medium flame. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to crackle and release their aroma, about 30 seconds.
  3. Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onions, green chilies, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and golden, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add spices: Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook the spices with the aromatics for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  5. Add sweet potatoes: Toss the cubed sweet potatoes into the pan, mixing well to coat them with the spice mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Add water and cook: Pour in about 1/4 cup of water to help soften the sweet potatoes. Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking; add more water if needed.
  7. Add peas and coconut (optional): If using peas and grated coconut, add them about 5 minutes before the cooking is complete. Stir well and cook until peas are tender.
  8. Finish with garam masala: Sprinkle garam masala over the cooked sweet potatoes and mix gently. Cook uncovered for another 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  9. Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, try substituting mustard oil with ghee or coconut oil.

Adding a pinch of asafoetida (hing) during tempering uplifts the aroma and aids digestion.

Try mixing in roasted peanuts or cashews for a delightful crunch and added protein.

To turn this dish into a comforting curry, add a cup of coconut milk or tomato puree along with the water in step 6. Simmer until thick and creamy.

For a festive twist, incorporate sweet potato koftas (fried sweet potato balls) in a spicy tomato gravy.

Explore other Indian vegetarian delights like Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore for convenient meal options.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 180 kcal
Carbohydrates 40 g
Protein 3 g
Fat 5 g
Fiber 6 g
Vitamin A 384% DV
Vitamin C 30% DV
Iron 6% DV

Serving Suggestions

This Indian spiced sweet potato dish pairs beautifully with warm chapatis or basmati rice. For a wholesome meal, serve alongside a cooling cucumber raita or a tangy mango chutney.

For a light lunch, enjoy it with a simple dal (lentil curry) and a fresh salad. You can also use this spiced sweet potato as a filling for wraps or stuffed parathas for a delicious twist.

If you love Indian vegetarian cooking, you might also enjoy our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas or the comforting Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals.

Conclusion

Sweet potatoes are truly a gem in Indian vegetarian cuisine, offering a perfect blend of nutrition and flavor. These recipes not only highlight their natural sweetness but also showcase the complexity of Indian spices and cooking techniques.

Whether you’re looking for an easy weekday meal or an impressive dish for guests, sweet potatoes provide a hearty and satisfying option.

By incorporating these sweet potato recipes into your cooking repertoire, you bring variety and wholesome goodness to your table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices and accompaniments to suit your taste.

For more exciting and healthy vegetarian recipes, explore our collection and keep your meals vibrant and delicious!

📖 Recipe Card: Sweet Potato Curry – Indian Vegetarian

Description: A flavorful Indian-style sweet potato curry made with aromatic spices and coconut milk. Perfect as a hearty vegetarian main dish served with rice or roti.

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

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 500g)
  • 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or mustard oil)
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pan and add mustard and cumin seeds; let them splutter.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add tomatoes, turmeric, coriander, red chili powder, and salt; cook until tomatoes soften.
  5. Add sweet potato cubes and mix well with the spices.
  6. Pour in coconut milk and 1/2 cup water; bring to a boil.
  7. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
  8. Stir in garam masala and cook for 2 more minutes.
  9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 38 g

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Marta K

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