If there’s one element that defines the soul of Indian meals, it’s the curry — warm, spiced, sometimes rich, sometimes rustic, always satisfying. Whether it’s a weekday dal or a weekend feast with creamy paneer gravies, Indian curries span an impressive spectrum of flavors and textures.
From comforting lentil-based dals to royal paneer curries and slow-cooked meat gravies, this guide celebrates the versatility of Indian gravies — with a focus on both vegetarian and non-vegetarian classics.
Gravy and Curries
1. Kadala Curry
A South Indian treasure from Kerala, Kadala Curry is made with black chickpeas (kala chana) simmered in a roasted coconut-based gravy.
Taste Profile: Earthy, spiced, and rich with coconut.
Best Paired With: Puttu, appam, or even steamed rice.
Nutrition: High in fiber and plant-based protein.
2. Malai Paneer
This mild, creamy curry is made with soft paneer cubes simmered in a luscious base of cream, cashew paste, and light spices.
Taste Profile: Mild, buttery, slightly sweet.
Best Paired With: Naan, jeera rice, or paratha.
Occasion: Perfect for kids or anyone who prefers less spice.
3. Paneer Masala
More robust than malai paneer, Paneer Masala features a tomato-onion gravy, seasoned generously with garam masala.
Taste Profile: Spicy, tangy, and bold.
Best Paired With: Roti or rice.
Tip: Add bell peppers or peas for extra texture.
4. Afghani Chicken Curry
A creamy, rich chicken curry with influences from Afghan cuisine, this dish uses yogurt, cashews, and white pepper for a subtly spiced flavor.
Taste Profile: Creamy, aromatic, mildly spicy.
Best Paired With: Butter naan, rumali roti, or saffron rice.
Highlight: No tomatoes or turmeric — making it unique in Indian gravies.
5. Dal Fry
A staple in Indian households, Dal Fry is made with toor dal tempered in ghee with garlic, cumin, and onions.
Taste Profile: Savory, comforting, slightly tangy.
Best Paired With: Steamed rice or chapati.
Everyday Classic: Great for lunchboxes and home dinners alike.
6. Dal Makhani
The crown jewel of North Indian dals, this slow-cooked black urad dal is enriched with cream, butter, and spices.
Taste Profile: Smoky, creamy, and rich.
Best Paired With: Naan or jeera rice.
Occasion: Ideal for special dinners or festive meals.
7. Tomato Curry
Simple yet flavorful, this curry uses ripe tomatoes, garlic, and spices to create a tangy base.
Taste Profile: Tangy, spiced, and light.
Best Paired With: Idli, dosa, or rice.
Budget-Friendly: Great for quick weeknight meals.
8. Ivy Gourd Curry (Kovakkai Curry)
A lesser-known gem, this uses ivy gourd cooked in a lightly spiced coconut or tomato gravy.
Taste Profile: Slightly tangy, mildly spiced.
Best Paired With: Rice or chapati.
Health Note: Ivy gourd is rich in fiber and antioxidants.
9. Brinjal Lobia Curry
Eggplant and black-eyed peas come together in a tomato-onion gravy — rustic and hearty.
Taste Profile: Earthy, slightly smoky.
Best Paired With: Steamed rice or millet rotis.
Rustic Appeal: Great for traditional South Indian-style meals.
10. Matar Korma
Green peas in a creamy white gravy made with cashews and yogurt — elegant and balanced.
Taste Profile: Mildly sweet, nutty, and aromatic.
Best Paired With: Pulao, naan, or paratha.
Seasonal Tip: Best with fresh winter peas.
11. Cauliflower Curry
A humble yet flavorful dish featuring cauliflower in a spiced onion-tomato base.
Taste Profile: Savory, bold, and hearty.
Best Paired With: Rotis or rice.
Nutrition: Low-carb, high in vitamin C and fiber.
12. Chana Masala
North India’s iconic curry with white chickpeas simmered in a tangy tomato-based gravy.
Taste Profile: Spicy, tangy, and bold.
Best Paired With: Bhatura, puri, or rice.
Power Meal: Packed with plant protein and fiber.
13. Paneer Butter Masala
Velvety and rich, this dish blends paneer with a creamy, buttery tomato gravy.
Taste Profile: Sweet-spicy, creamy, indulgent.
Best Paired With: Naan or kulcha.
Celebration Food: Often the go-to for special occasions and restaurant orders.
14. Tomato Egg Curry
Boiled eggs simmered in a tangy tomato and onion gravy — simple yet loaded with protein.
Taste Profile: Tangy, spicy, hearty.
Best Paired With: Rice or soft rotis.
Time Saver: Quick and satisfying for midweek dinners.
15. Afghani Paneer
This paneer curry features a silky white gravy with mild spices, perfect for a royal vegetarian dish.
Taste Profile: Mild, rich, and aromatic.
Best Paired With: Butter naan or flavored rice.
Tip: A perfect substitute for malai chicken for vegetarians.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer the subtle charm of Afghani-style gravies or the fiery punch of a Chana Masala, Indian curries are endlessly adaptable. They’re not just food — they’re tradition, comfort, and celebration served in a bowl. Try mixing and matching these dishes with rice, roti, or even modern flatbreads for endless combinations.
Let your kitchen smell like spice and home. Because no matter the day — there’s always room for curry.
