When life gets tough or the weather turns cold, we all crave comfort food. For many Indians, comfort food means something warm, tasty, and satisfying. The good news? You can enjoy all your favorite comfort meals in a plant-based way. No need for meat, eggs, or dairy. Just wholesome ingredients, desi flavors, and a little love.
In this article, we’ll explore delicious, easy-to-cook vegan comfort foods that are perfect for Indian kitchens. These meals are healthy, rich in nutrients, and good for the soul. Plus, they are made with everyday ingredients you probably already have at home.
Why Choose Plant-Based Comfort Food?
Here are a few reasons why switching to plant-based comfort food is a smart move:
- Healthier option: Less oil, no cholesterol, more fiber.
- Better digestion: No heavy dairy or meat to upset the stomach.
- Feel-good factor: Helps boost mood naturally.
- Sustainable choice: Good for the environment and animals.
- Budget-friendly: Local produce and legumes are cheaper.
Now let’s jump into the recipes.
6 Warm and Hearty Plant-Based Indian Comfort Foods
1. Vegan Khichdi
Khichdi is the ultimate Indian comfort food. This dish is soft, warm, and soothing. It’s perfect when you’re tired or feeling low.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice
- ½ cup moong dal (yellow split lentils)
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (carrot, peas, beans, etc.)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- ¼ tsp turmeric
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee substitute
Method:
- Wash rice and dal. Soak for 10 minutes.
- Heat oil in a pressure cooker. Add cumin seeds.
- Add vegetables and stir for 2 minutes.
- Add rice, dal, turmeric, salt, and 3–4 cups water.
- Pressure cook for 3 whistles.
- Serve hot with lemon or papad.
Tip: For extra comfort, stir in a spoon of plant-based butter or cashew cream.
2. Chole with Rice
Spicy, rich, and full of flavor – this North Indian classic can be 100% plant-based.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chickpeas (soaked overnight)
- 1 onion, 2 tomatoes
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp chole masala
- Salt, turmeric, red chili powder
- Oil
Method:
- Cook soaked chickpeas in a pressure cooker.
- Sauté onions and tomatoes in oil.
- Add spices and ginger-garlic paste.
- Add boiled chickpeas and some water.
- Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
- Serve with rice or roti.
Comfort twist: Top with lemon juice and coriander leaves for extra freshness.
3. Vegan Daliya Upma
This soft, nutty porridge made with broken wheat is super satisfying. It’s easy on the stomach and keeps you full for hours.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup roasted daliya (broken wheat)
- 1 onion, chopped veggies (optional)
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- Curry leaves, green chili, turmeric
- Salt and oil
Method:
- Heat oil. Add mustard seeds, curry leaves, green chili.
- Add chopped onions and sauté.
- Add vegetables and turmeric.
- Add daliya and 2 cups water.
- Cover and cook till soft.
Add-on: Serve with coconut chutney or a spoon of peanut butter for richness.
4. Plant-Based Rajma
Rajma chawal is a North Indian staple. It’s hearty, protein-rich, and deeply comforting.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rajma (kidney beans), soaked overnight
- 1 onion, 2 tomatoes
- Ginger-garlic paste
- Rajma masala or garam masala
- Oil, salt, turmeric
Method:
- Pressure cook rajma until soft.
- Sauté onion, tomato, and ginger-garlic paste.
- Add spices and cooked rajma.
- Simmer to thicken gravy.
- Serve hot with jeera rice or plain rice.
Healthy trick: Add spinach or methi leaves for extra nutrients.
5. Masala Oats
Warm, spicy oats are a cozy choice for rainy days. They feel like a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 small carrot, peas, tomato
- ½ tsp mustard seeds, turmeric
- Curry leaves, green chili
- Salt and pepper
Method:
- Heat oil. Add mustard seeds, curry leaves.
- Add vegetables and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add oats and 2 cups water.
- Cook till oats turn soft and creamy.
Twist: Add a spoon of coconut milk at the end for richness.
6. Vegan Kadhi
A tangy, soothing dish made with plant-based yogurt and besan (gram flour).
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dairy-free curd (coconut or almond)
- 2 tbsp besan
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- Curry leaves, red chili
- Salt
Method:
- Mix curd, besan, turmeric, and water to make a smooth batter.
- Heat oil and add mustard seeds, curry leaves, red chili.
- Pour in the curd-besan mix.
- Stir constantly till it thickens.
- Serve with steamed rice.
Comfort tip: Add pakoras made with onion and besan for a fuller meal.
Tips for Creating Plant-Based Comfort Food
- Use seasonal vegetables for better taste and health.
- Keep plant-based curd and milk in the fridge for quick recipes.
- Spices are your best friend – they add depth and warmth.
- Balance your meals with carbs, protein, and fat.
- Make large batches and store leftovers for lazy days.
FAQs
Q. Can I use almond milk instead of dairy milk in comfort food?
Yes, almond, coconut, or oat milk works well in Indian recipes. Just avoid flavored varieties.
Q. Are these meals good for children?
Absolutely. These dishes are soft, nutritious, and free from harmful additives.
Q. Can I freeze plant-based comfort food?
Yes. Khichdi, chole, rajma, and kadhi freeze well. Store in airtight containers.
Q. What can I use instead of ghee?
Use cold-pressed oils, vegan butter, or nut butters like peanut or cashew.
Q. How can I make these recipes protein-rich?
Add lentils, tofu, chickpeas, rajma, or soy chunks to boost protein.
Final Thoughts
Comfort food doesn’t need dairy, meat, or eggs to be delicious. With a little creativity and traditional Indian flavors, you can enjoy deeply satisfying meals that are 100% plant-based. Whether it’s a rainy evening or a cozy Sunday lunch, these recipes will warm your heart and your tummy.
Start with one recipe this week. You’ll soon realize that vegan Indian comfort food is not only delicious but also easy to make and perfect for every member of the family.
Author- Ayush
