Low Carb Indian Vegetarian Recipes | Low Carb Indian Food | Low Carb Indian Diet

If you're looking to go low-carb and love Indian food, we've got you. Here are 30+ delicious Low Carb Indian Vegetarian recipes! These recipes are made using fresh seasonal, low-carb veggies and homemade paneer - Indian cottage cheese. These recipes will make eating low-carb not only easy but insanely delicious!

What Is Low Carb Diet?

Low-carbohydrate diets restrict carbohydrate consumption relative to the average diet. Foods high in carbohydrates are limited, and replaced with foods containing a higher percentage of fat and protein and low carbohydrate foods. High-carb foods like sugar, bread, and pasta are replaced by meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese, nuts, seeds, and leafy and fibrous veggies like spinach, kale, and chard.

What are Low Carb Indian Foods

Low-carb Indian foods can be a good choice for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake. Here are some low-carb Indian foods:

1. Vegetables: Include a variety of low-carb vegetables such as spinach, cauliflower, broccoli, zucchini, bell peppers, and leafy greens.
2. Fruits: Berries like blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, and some other fruits like watermelon, peaches.
3. Eggs: Eggs are low in carbs and can be prepared in various ways.
4. Legumes: While some legumes are higher in carbs, others like lentils and chickpeas can be consumed in moderation.
5. Healthy Fats:
   • Avocado: A nutritious and low-carb fruit.
   • Nuts and seeds: Almonds, peanuts, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are good choices.
6. Spices: Use traditional Indian spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, red chili powder, and garam masala to add flavor without adding carbs.
7. Cauliflower Rice: Replace traditional rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.
8. Coconut Products: Coconut oil, coconut milk, and shredded coconut are low in carbs and can add flavor to dishes.
9. Yogurt: Opt for plain, unsweetened yogurt in moderation.
10. Paneer (Indian cottage cheese): Paneer is a good source of protein and low in carbs.

Remember to focus on portion control and choose whole, unprocessed foods for a balanced and nutritious low-carb diet. It's also advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a nutritionist before making significant changes to your diet.

What Indian Vegetables are considered Low Carb

Several Indian vegetables are considered low in carbohydrates, making them suitable for a low-carb diet. Here are some examples:

1. Spinach (Palak): Low in carbs and rich in vitamins and minerals.
2. Cauliflower (Phool Gobi): A versatile and low-carb alternative to rice or potatoes.
3. Broccoli (Hari Phool Gobi): Another cruciferous vegetable that is low in carbs and high in nutrients.
4. Zucchini (Torai or Turai): A low-carb squash that can be used in various dishes.
5. Bell Peppers (Shimla Mirch): Colorful and low-carb, they add flavor to dishes.
6. Cabbage (Patta Gobi): Low in carbs and can be used in stir-fries or salads.
7. Lettuce (Salad Patta): A leafy green that is low in carbs and perfect for salads.
8. Brussels Sprouts (Kale Phool Gobi): A cruciferous vegetable with low carbohydrate content.
9. Bitter Gourd (Karela): Low in carbs and believed to have health benefits.
10. Mushrooms (Khumb): A low-carb fungus that can be used in various dishes.
11. Cucumber (Kheera): Refreshing and low in carbs, great for salads.
12. Green Beans (Sem): A good source of fiber and low in carbs.
13. Radish (Mooli): Low in carbs and adds a peppery flavor to dishes.
14. Asparagus (Shatavari): Low in carbs and rich in nutrients.

Remember to prepare these vegetables in a variety of ways to keep your meals interesting. Grilled, roasted, stir-fried, or included in salads, these vegetables can be part of a delicious and low-carb Indian meal.

What Indian Foods are High Carb

When following a low-carb diet, it's important to be mindful of certain Indian foods that are high in carbohydrates. Here are some examples of Indian foods that are typically high in carbs and may be best avoided or consumed in moderation:

1. Rice (Chawal): Traditional white rice is a high-carb staple in Indian cuisine. Consider alternatives like cauliflower rice or limit your rice intake.
2. Roti/Chapati/Paratha: These are common Indian bread made from wheat flour and are high in carbohydrates. Low-carb alternatives like almond flour or coconut flour can be considered.
3. Potatoes (Aloo): Whether in curries, fries, or mashed form, potatoes are rich in carbs and should be limited on a low-carb diet like this Jeera Aloo.
4. Dosa and Idli: These dosa and idli are made from rice and lentils, making them high in carbs. Explore alternatives like dosas made from almond flour or coconut flour.
5. Sweets and Desserts (Mithai): Indian sweets like Peda, Besan Burfi, and Ladoo are high in sugar and carbs. Opt for sugar-free or low-carb dessert options if needed.
6. Sweetened Yogurt (Dahi): Flavored or sweetened yogurt can contain added sugars, increasing the carb content. Choose plain, unsweetened yogurt or use natural sweeteners.
7. Biryani and Pulao: These rice-based dishes are high in carbs. You can make low-carb versions using cauliflower rice or limit the quantity of rice.
8. Fruit Juices and Sugary Beverages: Traditional Indian fruit juices and sweetened beverages can be high in carbs and sugars. Opt for water, herbal teas, or unsweetened drinks.
9. Legumes (Dal): While dal (lentils) and legumes are a good source of protein, they also contain carbohydrates. Consider moderating your intake or choosing lower-carb options.
10. Certain Sauces and Condiments: Some Indian sauces and condiments may contain added sugars or flours. Check labels and choose options with minimal added sugars or make them at home like this homemade Tomato Ketchup with fresh tomatoes or this Hot Sauce.

It's important to note that individual tolerance to carbohydrates may vary, and portion control is key. Always consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist before making significant changes to your diet.

Low Carb Indian Vegetarian Recipes

A low-carb diet is a lifestyle choice, many of us follow. I try to eat low-carb foods. Most Indian meals are served with some kind of rice, roti, or paratha, which are not low-carb foods. With fewer changes like swapping regular white rice with low-carb cauliflower rice or whole wheat roti with almond flour or low-carb bread, one can enjoy low-carb Indian foods.

In this blog post, I am sharing 20+ low-carb Indian vegetarian dishes comprised of fresh, low-carb veggies like leafy greens, cauliflower, eggplant, okra, squash, mushrooms, paneer - Indian cottage cheese. I like to serve these dishes with low-carb cauliflower rice or almond flour roti.

These low-carb Indian recipes include some of the restaurant classics and some traditional homestyle dishes. Make sure to bookmark this page as I will be adding new recipes to this collection.

If you are looking for high-protein recipes, check out my post about 21 High Protein Indian Vegan Recipes

Low Carb Indian Lunch Recipes

Enjoy a flavorful and satisfying low-carb Indian lunch with these recipes that focus on fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and aromatic spices. Here are 20+ low-carb Indian vegetarian dishes that are hearty, full of flavors, and easy to make.

These recipes are made using fresh seasonal, low-carb veggies like spinach, mustard greens, kale, cauliflower, eggplant, okra, squash, mushrooms, and green peas.

For protein, I like to use homemade paneer - Indian cottage cheese. I like to serve these dishes with low-carb cauliflower rice or almond flour roti for a complete meal.

Low Carb Indian Dinner Recipes

Elevate your dinner experience with these low-carb Indian recipes, carefully crafted to deliver both richness in flavor and nutritional value. These dinner options offer a delightful array of low-carb choices for a healthier and satisfying evening meal.

Low Carb Indian Salad Recipes

Embark on a delicious journey with these low-carb Indian salad recipes, bursting with vibrant colors and flavors. From tangy cucumber, sprouts and veggies salad to spicy carrot salad, these dishes are a refreshing and healthy addition to your meals.

Low Carb Indian Juices Recipes

Quench your thirst the low-carb way with these simple and delicious Indian juice recipes. These beverages are packed with flavor without compromising on your low-carb goals.

Low Carb Indian Soup Recipes

Warm up your evenings with these low-carb Indian soup recipes that blend aromatic spices and wholesome ingredients for a comforting bowl of goodness without the extra carbs. These soups are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy Indian flavors while keeping carbs in check.

Recipe Roundups