How I make 12 Indian Inspired Meals for $25

butter

🥗Healthier: ghee

💰Cheaper: margarine

Ghee is a healthier fat option, while margarine is often more affordable.

cream

🥗Healthier: coconut milk

💰Cheaper: evaporated milk

Coconut milk is lower in calories and adds flavor; evaporated milk is budget-friendly.

Pick 10 common ingredients that represent Indian cuisine and cost under $25.

For fresh ingredients, use 2 small to medium onions, 1 bunch of cilantro, and 1 pound of potatoes.

Combine ginger and garlic as one ingredient for the recipe.

For pantry ingredients, use 1 32-ounce can of tomatoes, 1 pound of jasmine rice, 1 pound of dried chickpeas, and 1 can of whole fat coconut milk.

For protein, use 1.5 pounds of chicken thighs with skin on and bone in.

Use garam masala as the spice mix, about 50 cents worth.

Prep ginger garlic paste by peeling the entire head of garlic and all the ginger, then grind them together in a spice grinder until smooth.

Debone the chicken thighs, trim off fat and cartilage, and season with salt. Place in the fridge to dry brine overnight.

Make chicken stock by adding chicken bones and onion ends to a pot, cover with water, and place in a slow cooker overnight.

Prepare dosa batter by soaking 9 ounces of jasmine rice and a few ounces of dried chickpeas overnight, then blend with 1 tablespoon of salt and enough water to create a smooth batter. Let it ferment for at least a day.

Make cilantro chutney by blending cilantro stems, ginger garlic paste, garam masala, salt, and coconut milk, adding water for consistency.

Cook the remaining jasmine rice in a rice cooker to serve with the curry.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

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