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    Home » Cuisine » Indian

    50+ Indian Food Ideas for Kids

    January 5, 2022 . By Meeta Arora . 1 Comment | This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    The best easy, healthy indian foods for kids
    A collage of kid-friendly indian recipes

    Introducing kids to Indian food can be such an important part of their upbringing. Besides the numerous nutritional benefits of home-cooked, veggie-packed Indian meals, it also teaches them about their culture. This big list of 50+ Indian recipes that kids will enjoy will come in handy as you look for easy meal ideas that the whole family can enjoy. 

    The best easy, healthy indian foods for kids

    It was very important for me that my kids experience Indian culture through food (along with the values, language and festivals). Everything from ingredients (lots of turmeric and chili powder!), to the method of eating (sometimes without cutlery), serves kids well to learn about their heritage.

    My kids eat Indian food almost everyday, or at least every other day. My older daughter loves to eat curries: Paneer Butter Masala, Palak Paneer and Black Eyed Peas Curry are her favorite right now!

    My youngest is still one, so she has been eating a lot of wholesome vegetarian foods such as khichdi. She has also been enjoying all the food we eat regularly, just with a little less spice.

    I believe in giving toddlers and preschoolers these same options. Just make sure the food is bite-sized, so they can pick or enjoy easily. Small pieces of paneer or chicken, and mildly-spiced curries work well. It may help to take a portion out for the kids separately, and then add heat in the tempering. I do this a lot with dals.

    Most of the recipes I've included are healthy, one-pot recipes which are easy to make, and perfect to include in lunch boxes. Many of the vegetarian recipes I've included can be made vegan with simple ingredient switches. In other words, this post is bound to contain at least a few recipes that fits your schedule, kid's diet, and tastes!

    Contents hide
    1 Tips to get your kids to enjoy Indian Food
    1.1 Involve kids in cooking
    1.2 Adjust the spice level for kids
    1.3 Let the kids feed themselves
    2 Indian Breakfast Recipes for Kids
    3 Indian Lunch/ Dinner Ideas for Kids (Vegetarian)
    4 Indian Meal Ideas for Kids (Meat)
    5 Indian Side Dishes
    6 Indian Snacks for Kids

    Tips to get your kids to enjoy Indian Food

    Involve kids in cooking

    My older daughter loves to help me make roti (indian flatbread), and chop fruits & veggies with her Kid-Friendly Knife. When you include kids in the cooking process, they are much more inclined to eat the food, and even enjoy it!

    Adjust the spice level for kids

    Many times it happens that the kids don't eat Indian food as it is too spicy for them. For such cases, I suggest to skip or reduce green chili pepper and/or red chili powder used in any recipe.

    I totally get that you don't want to be cooking separately for kids and adults in the house. Who has the time for that??  My simple trick in this case is to initially make a curry or dal less spicy. Take out a portion for kids and then add spice with the addition of red chili powder just by itself or along with tempering, especially in case of dals.

    Note for the adults who love spicy food in the house: We have also been using the Chili Onion Crunch from Trader Joes on top of dal. Also don't forget the variety of Indian pickles that are a great way to add spice to your meal. Here is one of our homemade favorites - Ginger Chilli Pickle.

    Let the kids feed themselves

    I understand that many times Indian food can be hard to pick and eat for the kids. They don't always understand or want to scoop the curries or dals in the roti/paratha and khichdi/rice can be hard to eat for themselves initially.

    Here is what I try to do for the little one, I scoop the curry or dip the roti in dal and then leave bites on her plate. So she gets the opportunity to feel and pick the food herself. If it is possible, then keep bites sized pieces of the paneer or veggies in her plate. eg. okra (bhindi), taro (arbi), beans. I love this suction plate that sticks to the table.

    For rice, I do have to feed the one-year old with a spoon. She is already showing interest in using a spoon, so hopefully we can change that soon too.

    Young kids want to explore food and are willing to try. But as they get older, they might not be as open to trying new things. At this time, it is the parents are their role models. Even if we don't like a veggie, if we are willing to take a few bites (maybe for the nutritional benefits), the kids might be willing to try too.

    Below I am sharing lots of ideas for breakfast, lunch, dinner and sides.

    Indian Breakfast Recipes for Kids

    Idli and Dosa make a wonderful breakfast, and can also be served as a lunch or dinner. Pair it with sambar and chutney.

    Idli served with sambar and chutney
    Instant Pot Idli
    Idli is the quintessential south indian breakfast, which is also popular across India.  Learn how to make the perfect soft and fluffy idli in the instant pot!
    Check out this recipe
    Crispy Dosa with chutney and sambar in a plate
    How to make Dosa (Crispy Dosa Recipe)
    Learn how to make the best crispy dosa's from scratch with homemade dosa batter, along with all the tips and tricks to get the perfect crispy dosa's every time!
    Check out this recipe

    Dhokla is easy for kids to enjoy, as they can be cut into small bite size pieces. I skip the green chili in the dhokla batter and tempering when serving to kids.

    Rava Dhokla (Savory Semolina Cakes) made in the instant pot, served with tempering on a snack plate
    Rava Dhokla Recipe
    Soft and fluffy Rava Dhokla made in the Instant Pot. These delicious savory semolina cakes are a popular Gujarati delicacy, perfect to enjoy for breakfast or snack!
    Check out this recipe
    Khaman Dhokla with tempered with green chili and curry leaves stacked.
    Khaman Dhokla Recipe
    Soft and fluffy Khaman Dhokla made in the Instant Pot and stovetop. These delicious steamed savory chickpea flour cakes are a popular Gujarati delicacy, perfect to enjoy for breakfast or snack!
    Check out this recipe
    Rava Upma Instant Pot Pressure Cooker
    Rava / Sooji Upma in Instant Pot
    An easy and popular South Indian breakfast. Upma made from dry roasted semolina, cooked along with various seasonings and vegetables, perfect for a quick and nutritious breakfast. 
    Check out this recipe
    Semiya Upma made with vermicelli in a bowl
    Semiya Upma (Vermicelli Upma)
    This Semiya Upma is a traditional South Indian breakfast. Made with vermicelli and vegetables, this upma is mildly spiced, and an easy one-pot recipe. Make it on the stovetop or in the instant pot in less then 25 minutes!
    Check out this recipe
    Sabudana Khichdi in a bowl, garnished with cilantro leaves
    Healthy Sabudana Khichdi
    A healthier Sabudana Khichdi recipe - Tapioca pearls/Sago cooked with potatoes, carrots, green peas and crushed peanuts. This popular vegan and gluten free dish is like a pilaf or upma made with tapioca pearls. Enjoy it for breakfast or an afternoon snack with tea.
    Check out this recipe
    Masala oats with veggies and spices in a bowl along with yogurt
    Indian Masala Oats (Savory Oatmeal)
    Masala Oats is a savory oatmeal breakfast porridge cooked with lots of vegetables and aromatic Indian spices. A healthy & delicious vegan breakfast recipe.
    Check out this recipe
    Poha garnished with lemon, sev, cilantro and pomegranate seeds
    Poha
    Poha is an easy and delicious Indian breakfast recipe popular in western and central Indian. Made with flattened rice, onion, potatoes, and seasoned with mild spices, curry leaves, peanuts and cilantro, this recipe also makes up for a quick mid-day snack.
    Check out this recipe

    Indian Lunch/ Dinner Ideas for Kids (Vegetarian)

    Khichidi's typically have a soft texture and mild flavors, making them perfect for young children to enjoy. Below is the basic moong dal khichdi, also called pongal in South India, and mixed vegetable khichdi with lots of added veggies. Kids love it along with dahi (yogurt).

    plain khichdi made with moong dal and rice served in a bowl topped with ghee, cilantro and pickle
    Instant Pot Khichdi
    Moong Dal Khichdi, or Kitchari is a simple dish made with rice and lentils, tempered in ghee with cumin seeds and turmeric. It takes less than 30 minutes to make and is a perfect comfort meal for weeknights or when someone is under the weather!
    Check out this recipe
    Lentil and Vegetable khichdi in a white bowl
    Indian Lentil and Vegetable Khichdi (Masala Khichdi)
    A Instant Pot Masala Khichdi made with lentils, rice and vegetables along with simple spices and ghee.  The epitome of comfort food all over India. 
    Check out this recipe
    Ven Pongal in a bowl garnished with cashews and curry leaves
    Ven Pongal
    Made from rice and lentils, this satisfying South Indian breakfast recipe, Ven Pongal, is enjoyed with sambar and chutney. Deliciously seasoned with curry leaves, cumin seeds, and black pepper, this vegetarian and gluten-free recipe is a wholesome meal.
    Check out this recipe

    The difference between dals and curries is that curries are often heavily spiced. However, you shouldn't let that stop you from introducing them to your kids; simply reduce the amount of chilis, garam masala, and any other spices you feel will deter your kids from enjoying it.

    Paneer is favorite with almost every child, because of the bite-sized pieces and different preparations.

    Instant Pot Paneer Butter Masala topped with cilantro and cream with naan bread on the side
    Paneer Butter Masala - Instant Pot Pressure Cooker
    Chunks of paneer or cottage cheese cooked in a mildly spiced tomato gravy. This Paneer Butter Masala is so delicious and very easy to make in the instant pot. 
    Check out this recipe
    Palak Paneer Instant Pot Pressure Cooker
    Instant Pot Palak Paneer Recipe (Pressure Cooker)
    A North Indian favorite with spinach and cottage cheese, Palak Paneer. Make this instant pot palak paneer as a one-pot dish, super easy and delicious!
    Check out this recipe
    Paneer jalfrezi in a skillet garnished with cilantro
    Paneer Jalfrezi Recipe
    Paneer Jalfrezi is a delicious stir-fry curry that has the heavenly combination of paneer with peppers. This vegetarian restaurant style dish can be made within 20 minutes and is a perfect accompaniment for naan.
    Check out this recipe

    My older daughter enjoys the below frankie plain with just the paneer and chaat masala stuffed in the roll. She is not fond of adding onions and peppers yet.

    Three paneer Kathi roll wraps on a black base
    Easy Paneer Frankie (Paneer Kathi Roll)
    This Paneer Frankie Roll, also known as Paneer Kathi Rolls, is a popular Indian street food made with flaky flatbread, covered with egg, wrapped with spicy paneer and tangy toppings. Perfect to pack for a grab and go meal, or a special weeknight meal.
    Check out this recipe

    This one is definitely a winner and popular with kids, because of its mild, creamy texture.

    Matar Paneer (green peas and indian cottage cheese curry) served in a white bowl
    Matar Paneer (Instant Pot & Stovetop)
    Matar Paneer is a authentic North Indian curry made with green peas and paneer, cooked in a mild onion-tomato sauce. This restaurant-style Matar Paneer Masala is easy to make in less than 30 minutes in the instant pot or stovetop.
    Check out this recipe

    Kids love potatoes, so here are a variety of stir fry or curries with potatoes. Some combine various veggies with potatoes such as green beans, or spinach.

    Aloo Palak in a cast iron pan
    Aloo Palak Recipe (Potato & Spinach Stir Fry)
    Aloo Palak is a delicious and nutritious Indian potato & spinach stir fry. This Punjabi Aloo Palak recipe can be made in just 25 minutes and is perfect for a quick healthy weeknight dinner!
    Check out this recipe
    Potatoes in Yogurt Sauce Pressure Cooker
    Instant Pot Potato Curry in Yogurt Sauce / Dahi Aloo Recipe
    An easy and delicious comfort food with minimal ingredients made in the Instant Pot. Dahi Aloo is made with just two main ingredients, potatoes and yogurt, tempered with cumin seeds, ginger and flavorful spices. 
    Check out this recipe
    Beans and potato stir fry in a black bowl
    Aloo Beans / Indian Green Beans Recipe - Instant Pot & Stovetop
    Easy Aloo Beans or Indian Green Beans Curry recipe prepared with cumin, garlic and spices in just 15 minutes. Vegan & Gluten free vegetable side dish. 
    Check out this recipe
    Aloo Matar made in instant pot served in a bowl
    Instant Pot Aloo Matar Recipe (Potato & Peas Curry)
    Aloo Matar is a quick and easy potatoes and peas curry, made in the Instant Pot or stovetop. This vegan and gluten free Aloo Matar Masala is perfect for a delicious warm weeknight dinner!
    Check out this recipe
    Potato Curry along with puffed bread (puri) and onions in a black plate
    Instant Pot Potato Curry (Aloo Rasedar)
    Easy and comforting Potato Curry in Tomato Gravy made in the Instant Pot. This North Indian Potato Curry is popularly known as Aloo Rasedar. Aloo means potato and Rasedar is a thin tomato gravy. 
    Check out this recipe
    Aloo Gobi Instant Pot Pressure Cooker 1
    Instant Pot Aloo Gobi / Potato & Cauliflower Stir Fry
    A healthy & delicious potato and cauliflower stir fry made in the instant pot. So easy and quick, takes just 20 minutes. Vegan & Gluten Free.  
    Check out this recipe
    Saag Aloo (Spinach curry with potatoes) in a clay pot
    Instant Pot Saag Aloo (Spinach Potato Curry)
    Saag Aloo, a popular delicious North Indian Curry, made with spinach and potatoes cooked with ginger, garlic, onions and aromatic spices. This is a simplified one-pot version of the authentic Saag Aloo, made in Instant Pot, which takes just 30 minutes to prepare. 
    Check out this recipe

    There are so many types of indian dals (lentils) to serve kids- all can be served with rice or roti.

    Instant Pot Dal Fry
    Instant Pot Dal Tadka / Dal Fry with Basmati Rice
    A simple yet flavorful yellow dal tempered with cumin, curry leaves and spices. This is an everyday lentil enjoyed with rice. 
    Check out this recipe
    Dal Palak in a pretty bowl topped with tempering
    Pressure Cooker Spinach Dal (Dal Palak Recipe)
    Spinach Dal, also called Dal Palak, is a comforting lentil soup with added spinach made in the Pressure Cooker.  It is so easy to make it in the pressure cooker. Enjoy it with basmati rice or as a soup. This is a vegetarian & gluten-free recipe.
    Check out this recipe
    Green Moong Dal with rice topped with onions and lime
    Green Moong Dal (Mung Bean Curry)
    Wholesome Green Moong lentils simmered in onion-tomato gravy made in Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker). A protein rich mung bean curry, enjoy as a lentil soup along with a side of rice. 
    Check out this recipe
    Instant Pot Moong Dal Fry. Split Yellow Lentils Pressure Cooker
    Moong Dal Fry / Split Yellow Lentils Soup - Instant Pot
    Moong Dal Tadka or Split Yellow Lentils Soup made in instant pot or stovetop pressure cooker. A simple yet flavorful yellow dal tempered with cumin, garlic and spices. This is a mild everyday lentil enjoyed with rice.
    Check out this recipe
    Masoor Dal made in instant pot served in a bowl along with onions, tomatoes
    Whole Masoor Dal Recipe (Brown Lentils Curry)
    Enjoy this delicious & healthy Whole Masoor Dal, also known as Brown Lentils Curry, made in the Instant Pot or Stovetop Pressure Cooker. Vegan & Gluten Free.
    Check out this recipe
    Dal Makhani made in the instant pot, served in a earthen pot with some brown rice and spices in the back
    Instant Pot Dal Makhani (Madras Lentils with Brown Rice)
    Authentic Punjabi Dal Makhani (Madras Lentils) made in Pressure Cooker or Instant Pot. This restaurant style Dal Makhani made in the pressure cooker is rich, creamy and flavorful. 
    Check out this recipe
    Instant Pot Chana Dal
    Instant Pot Chana Dal Recipe (Split Chickpeas Soup)
    Easy & Delicious Chana Dal made in the Pressure Cooker. Split Chickpeas cooked with ginger, garlic, onion, tomato and flavorful spices, to make a comforting soup. Vegan & Gluten free. 
    Check out this recipe
    Lentil Sambar served in a bowl
    Instant Pot Vegetable Sambar (South Indian Lentils)
    Sambar, a flavorful South Indian Lentil Stew made with lentils, vegetables, tamarind, curry leaves and spices prepared in the instant pot (pressure cooker).
    Check out this recipe
    sprouts curry in a white bowl
    Sprouts Curry
    Sprouted green lentils curry packed full of nutrition made in the instant pot or stovetop. Mung bean sprouts cooked in an onion-tomato sauce with ginger, garlic and aromatic spices. This curry goes perfectly with roti, paratha or rice.
    Check out this recipe

    A variety of curry recipes

    Egg curry made by adding boiled eggs to a spicy curry sauce, along with coconut milk to balance the flavors. In this Instant Pot Egg Curry, we will make the curry sauce and boil the eggs together. Make this quick and delicious Egg Curry for dinner on busy days in under 30 minutes. Serve it with roti, naan or rice. | #eggcurry #instantpot #pressurecooker #eggs #curry #lowcarb #glutenfree | pipingpotcurry.com
    Instant Pot Egg Curry (Pressure Cooker Anda Curry)
    Egg curry made by adding boiled eggs to a curry sauce, along with coconut milk to give a flavorful protein-rich dish. In this Instant Pot Egg Curry, we will make the curry sauce and boil the eggs together, to make this delicious dish even quicker! Pair it with rice, naan or roti to make a complete meal.
    Check out this recipe
    Vegetable Curry with Basmati Rice and Naan
    Vegetable Korma
    Easy & Creamy Vegetable Korma made in the Instant Pot. This restaurant style creamy vegetable korma curry is a perfect blend of vegetables with a creamy coconut based sauce. A vegan & gluten free curry that pairs perfectly with naan or rice.
    Check out this recipe

    I suggest to reduce the spice in the below Pav Bhaji recipe. Kids love the buttered pav, and dipping it in the bhaji!

    Pav Bhaji served in a plate with onions and lime on the side
    Mumbai Pav Bhaji Recipe (One-pot)
    An easy one-pot recipe for the most popular Indian street food, Pav Bhaji in Instant Pot. It is a spiced mashed vegetable curry topped with chopped onions, cilantro, lime and enjoyed with dinner rolls. 
    Check out this recipe

    Okra (Bhindi) is my older daughters favorite, and hence I have many different preparations for it.

    Okra Bhindi Masala Instant Pot Pressure Cooker
    Instant Pot Bhindi Masala / Okra Stir Fry
    A North Indian favorite Okra Stir Fry in the instant pot. Okra cooked with onions, tomato, garlic and spices. 
    Check out this recipe

    The following recipes contain different types of beans. Beans are full of protein, and therefore very filling, making these dishes perfect for quick, healthy, kid-friendly meals. My daughter loves all of them, and often asks me to make them.

    Black eyed peas curry (chawli) in a bowl garnished with cilantro
    Black Eyed Peas Curry (Indian Lobia Masala) - Instant Pot & Stovetop
    Black Eyed Peas Curry or Lobia Masala is a popular dish in North India, that is so easy and quick to make in the pressure cooker. It is made in an onion-tomato gravy, along with lots of ginger, garlic and aromatic spices. It is perfect to enjoy with some steaming basmati rice and parathas.
    Check out this recipe
    Chana Masala (Chickpea curry) served in a black bowl
    Instant Pot Chana Masala / Punjabi Chole Masala Recipe in Pressure Cooker
    Punjabi Chole Masala or Chana Masala is an Indian favorite chickpea curry. This one-pot recipe for the authentic Chana Masala can be made in the Instant Pot or stovetop Pressure Cooker. A healthy protein-rich vegan and gluten free chickpea recipe.
    Check out this recipe
    vegan chickpea curry with spinach made in the instant pot
    Instant Pot Chickpea Curry with Spinach (Chana Saag)
    This easy one-pot Spinach Chickpea Curry, also known as Chana Saag is a healthy vegan and gluten-free curry. Serve it with rice, quinoa, or naan for a perfect weeknight dinner!
    Check out this recipe
    rajma served in a bowl garnished with cilantro
    Instant Pot Rajma Masala (Red Kidney Beans Curry)
    Delicious Instant Pot Rajma Masala or Red Kidney Beans Curry with Pot-in-Pot Brown Rice. This is a great way to make a complete meal in your instant pot. 
    Check out this recipe

    Pair the below black chickpeas with Poori and Sooji Halwa for a divine combination. My daughters fave for sure!

    Kala Chana in Instant Pot. Black Chickpeas in Pressure Cooker
    Instant Pot Black Chickpeas / Sookha Kala Chana
    Instant Pot Black Chickpeas or Sookha Kala Chana is an easy Indian dish made during the festival of Navratri. It is vegan, gluten free and high protein. 
    Check out this recipe

    Here are couple of one-pot rice and grain recipes that your kids will enjoy. Adjust down the spice to their taste.

    Vegetable Biryani Rice garnished with mint leaves and roasted nuts
    Instant Pot Vegetable Biryani
    One-pot Vegetable Biryani made in the instant pot, is so easy to cook with the same authentic flavors! Fragrant basmati rice cooked with lots of vegetables, and aromatic whole spices and herbs. This delicious flavorful Veg Biryani ready in less than 30 minutes, and is perfect for a weeknight dinner with a side of raita or for special occasions. 
    Check out this recipe
    Quinoa with vegetables in a white bowl
    Quinoa & Vegetable Pilaf - Instant Pot Pressure Cooker
    Easy and healthy quinoa with veggies made as a one-pot meal in the Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker. 
    Check out this recipe
    Black eyed peas and Spinach Pulao Pressure Cooker
    Instant Pot Black eyed peas and Spinach Rice
    One-pot Black-Eyed Peas and Spinach Rice is a healthy and wholesome dish, perfect for weeknight meals. This vegetarian and gluten free dish is easy to make in the Instant Pot. 
    Check out this recipe
    beet rice pilaf in a bowl
    Instant Pot Beet Rice Pulao
    A mildly flavored rice pulao with beets, green peas and aromatic spices in Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker.  
    Check out this recipe
    Bulgur Pulao. Broken Wheat Pilaf. Dalia Pualo
    Instant Pot Bulgur Pilaf Recipe (Dalia Pulao)
    A simple, healthy and delicious Bulgur or cracked wheat pilaf cooked with lots of veggies. 
    Check out this recipe

    Indian Meal Ideas for Kids (Meat)

    I have included mostly mild chicken curries that my daughter enjoys. She does get the craving to each chicken about once a week and asks me to make it!

    Chicken Tikka Kebab garnished with onions and green chutney on side
    Chicken Tikka Kebab
    Chicken Tikka Kebab is a delicious appetizer that is packed with flavor. It starts with chicken pieces marinated in yogurt along with lime juice and aromatic spices, then threaded onto skewers and cooked to create a delicious appetizer. Make it in the air fryer or oven to serve at the gathering, or include it into your meal prep for the week! 
    Check out this recipe
    Chicken Curry with coconut milk in a white bowl
    Instant Pot Coconut Chicken Curry
    Easy & healthy Indian Coconut Chicken Curry made in an Instant Pot in just 20 minutes!
    Check out this recipe
    Chicken Korma in a while bowl
    Instant Pot Chicken Korma
    Chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked with lots of onions and finished with cashew paste for a creamy rich texture. This restaurant style chicken curry is quick and easy to make in the Instant Pot.
    Check out this recipe
    Pressure Cooker Instant Pot Butter Chicken
    Instant Pot Butter Chicken Recipe
    A creamy and delicious Butter chicken or Murgh Makhani made in the Instant Pot. Chicken cooked in a mildly spiced tomato gravy with aromatic ginger, garlic and spices. 
    Check out this recipe
    chicken biryani served on a plate garnished with cilantro, onions and lime
    Instant Pot Chicken Biryani
    This Instant Pot Chicken Biryani has fragrant rice cooked with tender juicy chicken along with lots of warming spices and caramelized onions. This Indian chicken and rice dish is popular all over the world. This one-pot version made in a pressure cooker is easy to make even on busy weeknights in less than an hour.
    Check out this recipe
    Tandoori Chicken Air Fryer
    Air Fryer Tandoori Chicken
    A flavor packed spicy dish from the Indian subcontinent popular all over the world. Chicken is marinated in yogurt, ginger, garlic, spices and lime juice, then grilled in the air fryer or oven. Low carb and keto friendly. 
    Check out this recipe

    Indian Side Dishes

    The favorite indian side dishes are the classic flatbreads - roti and paratha. I have included the basic recipes below. I often add leftover dals or chopped spinach or fenugreek to the whole wheat dough to increase the nutrition of the roti/paratha.

    soft roti being cooked
    How To Make Soft Roti / Chapati? (Whole Wheat Indian Flatbread Recipe)
    Roti, also known as Chapati or Phulka, is a staple in most Indian homes. This whole wheat Indian flatbread is typically enjoyed as a side with curries or lentils. 
    Check out this recipe
    Paratha, pan fried indian flatbread along with pickle and chai
    Paratha Recipe (Pan-fried Indian flatbread)
    Paratha, one of the most popular unleavened flatbreads from India, is perfect to enjoy with pickle and a hot cup of chai for breakfast or alongside curry and yogurt raita for lunch or dinner.
    Check out this recipe

    Stuffed parathas such as Aloo Paratha or Paneer Paratha are often the most kid-friendly version of this side.

    Below are simple rice side dishes I typically make along with a curry or dal.

    Instant Pot Lemon Rice
    Lemon Rice Recipe - Instant Pot / Pressure Cooker
    Flavorful, tangy and crunchy Instant Pot Lemon Rice from South India, made as a one-pot dish in Instant Pot. Aromatic Basmati Rice flavored with lemon juice, mustard seeds, ginger and topped with roasted peanuts. 
    Check out this recipe
    Spinach Rice in a cast-iron pan topped with lemon slices
    Spinach Rice
    Spinach Rice cooked in the instant pot or stovetop as a one-pot recipe. Aromatic basmati rice, with spinach and spices, make this Spinach Rice flavorful and healthy!
    Check out this recipe

    Yogurt or Dahi is an absolute favorite for kids. Make it fresh at home, it is so much tastier and also cheaper.

    Instant Pot Yogurt
    Instant Pot Homemade Yogurt (Pot-in-pot / PIP)
    Delicious home made Yogurt made in the Instant Pot with the pot-in-pot method. 
    Check out this recipe
    Dahi vada chaat with chutneys in small white bowls
    Dahi Vada (Dahi Bhalla Chaat)
    This favorite Dahi Vada or Dahi Bhalla recipe has the softest lentil fritters drenched in creamy yogurt and topped with sweet and spicy chutneys. This popular Indian street food is loved by all and is a perfect inclusion to any festive menu!
    Check out this recipe

    Indian Snacks for Kids

    I am so glad my daughter has come around to enjoying Vada Pav. She skips the chutneys, but enjoys eating the vada stuffed in buttered pav.

    Vada Pav Air Fryer
    Vada Pav / Potato Fritter Sliders - Air Fryer
    Vada Pav is the humble street food of Mumbai. A fried potato fritter or vada, is stuffed in between mini-burger buns called pav, along with sweet and spicy sauces or chutney. 
    Check out this recipe

    Friday dinners are often pizza in our house. You can vary the topping to your choice. This one is easy and kids enjoy the paneer topping.

    Tanddori Paneer Naan Pizza Air Fryer Oven
    Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza - Air Fryer / Oven
    Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza made with marinated paneer, red peppers, onions, grape tomatoes, in an Air Fryer or Oven. This is a delicious and quick fusion pizza for the times when you are craving pizza! Vegetarian, easy and convenient. Vary it with toppings of your choice.
    Check out this recipe

    You can stuff the below puffs with potato (reuse the potato stuffing from the Vada Pav) or paneer or mixed veggies.

    Paneer Puff Pastry Turnovers Air Fryer Oven
    Savory Paneer Puff Pastry Turnovers - Air Fryer
    A flaky golden crust with spicy flavorful paneer filling. Perfect appetizer for a party that can be prepared ahead of time. So easy and delicious!  
    Check out this recipe

    We make the below taro fries as a side too. They are very much like French fries that kids love!

    Taro fries in a bowl with a cilantro dip
    Taro Fries (Air Fryer, Oven & Stovetop)
    These Taro Fries (Crispy Arbi) are so easy to make, crispy and delicious. They are a great variation in taste and nutrition to potato french fries. Make them in the air fryer, oven or stovetop.
    Check out this recipe

    Sharing here a few international recipes that kids enjoy:

    • Mexican Rice & Beans Casserole
    • Couscous & Vegetable Pilaf
    • Mujadara
    • Gnocchi in pesto sauce
    • Penne in tomato cream sauce
    • Lemon Parmesan Orzo
    • Vegetable Lo Mein
    • Carrot Soup with ginger
    • Creamy Tomato Soup
    • Broccoli Cheddar Soup
    • Chickpea Squash Fritters
    • Applesauce

    I hope these recipes help you find some authentic meals that your kids will enjoy, and that they grow up loving their culture and the wonderful flavors of Indian food.

    You might also enjoy the roundup below:

    • 20+ Low Carb Indian Food Recipes
    • 15+ Indian Dessert Recipes
    • 25+ Easy Indian Appetizers

    Happy cooking!

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    Comments

    1. srimayyia says

      September 13, 2022 at 11:16 pm

      This is an amazing roundup! I have loved all the recipes I have tried from your site, and am looking forward to trying more of these!

      Reply

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