Indian cuisine, known for its diverse and flavorful offerings, provides plenty of options naturally low in carbohydrates.
From savory vegetarian delights to hearty non-vegetarian dishes and satisfying desserts, here are 62 of the best low-carb Indian foods you can enjoy.
For many, carbohydrates are the go-to source of energy, but an excess of carbs can lead to various health issues, including weight gain, diabetes, and metabolic disorders.
But who says eating low-carb has to be boring or restrictive? Imagine indulging in your favorite Indian dishes—rich curries, sizzling kebabs, and even mouth-watering desserts—
Whether you’re a vegetarian, a meat lover, or have a sweet tooth, there’s something for everyone.
From creamy Palak Paneer and spicy Chicken Tikka to delectable Keto Halwa, this guide takes you on a culinary journey through the best low-carb Indian foods.
We’ve curated a list of 62 dishes that are not only delicious but also fit perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle.
Vegetarian Dishes
1. Palak Paneer
A nutritious dish made with spinach and cottage cheese, Palak Paneer is rich in fiber and protein while being low in carbs. The creamy spinach sauce is seasoned with garlic, ginger, and spices, making it both healthy and delicious.
2. Baingan Bharta
This smoky mashed eggplant dish is packed with flavors and is a great low-carb option. Roasted eggplant is combined with tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices to create a comforting meal.
3. Gobi Masala
Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that fits well into a low-carb diet. Gobi Masala, made with sautéed cauliflower florets in a spiced tomato sauce, is both satisfying and nutritious.
4. Karela Sabzi
Bitter gourd may not be everyone’s favorite, but when cooked right, it’s a fantastic low-carb option. Karela Sabzi is stir-fried with spices and often paired with onions and tomatoes for a flavorful dish.
5. Paneer Tikka
Marinated in yogurt and spices, Paneer Tikka is grilled to perfection. This protein-rich dish is low in carbs and makes for a great appetizer or main course.
6.Cabbage Sabzi
Cabbage is low in carbs and high in fiber. Stir-fried with spices, it becomes a simple yet tasty side dish that complements any meal.
7.Aloo Gobi
Aloo Gobi is a traditional dish made with cauliflower and potatoes. For a low-carb version, reduce the quantity of potatoes or replace them with turnips.
8. Bhindi Masala
Okra, also known as bhindi, is a low-carb vegetable that can be stir-fried with spices to make a delicious side dish. It’s rich in vitamins and has a unique texture.
9. Chana Saag
This dish combines spinach with chickpeas, providing a nutritious and low-carb option. It’s seasoned with garlic, ginger, and spices, making it a flavorful addition to your meal.
10. Methi Thepla
A traditional Gujarati flatbread made with fenugreek leaves and a mix of flours. For a low-carb version, use almond or coconut flour.
11. Dal Tadka
While lentils do contain carbs, they are also rich in fiber and protein. Dal Tadka, made with split yellow lentils and tempered with spices, can be enjoyed in moderation on a low-carb diet.
12. Lauki Kofta
Bottle gourd is low in carbs and makes for an interesting kofta (dumpling) dish. The koftas are made from grated lauki and spices, then simmered in a spiced tomato gravy.
13. Mushroom Masala
Mushrooms are low in carbs and rich in nutrients. Mushroom Masala is a spicy and savory dish that can be enjoyed with a side of salad or cauliflower rice.
14. Zucchini Sabzi
Zucchini is a low-carb vegetable that can be used to make a quick stir-fry with Indian spices. This dish is light, nutritious, and easy to prepare.
15. Palak Chole
Spinach and chickpeas are combined in this dish, offering a hearty yet low-carb meal. The rich green sauce is packed with flavor and nutrients.
16. Dhokla
A steamed, savory cake made from fermented chickpea flour. While chickpea flour contains carbs, the fermentation process reduces the carb content, making it a suitable snack in moderation.
17. Paneer Bhurji
Scrambled paneer mixed with onions, tomatoes, and spices, Paneer Bhurji is a protein-rich dish that’s quick to prepare and low in carbs.
18.Stuffed Bell Peppers
Bell peppers are low in carbs and can be stuffed with a mixture of paneer or vegetables, then baked or steamed for a delicious meal.
19. Cauliflower Rice Pulao
Replace rice with grated cauliflower to create a low-carb version of pulao. It’s seasoned with spices and mixed with vegetables for a satisfying dish.
20. Avial
A traditional South Indian dish made with a variety of vegetables cooked in a yogurt and coconut base. Opt for low-carb vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and green beans.
Non-Vegetarian Dishes
21. Tandoori Chicken
Marinated in yogurt and spices, Tandoori Chicken is grilled to perfection. This protein-packed dish is low in carbs and full of flavor.
22. Butter Chicken
A rich and creamy dish made with chicken in a tomato-based sauce. Use heavy cream and butter for a low-carb version, and skip the sugar that’s often added to balance the flavors.
23. Fish Curry
A coastal delicacy, fish curry is made with a coconut milk base and flavored with tamarind, turmeric, and other spices. Opt for fatty fish like salmon or mackerel for a low-carb meal.
24. Egg Curry
Hard-boiled eggs cooked in a spiced tomato gravy make for a hearty and low-carb dish. It’s easy to prepare and goes well with cauliflower rice or salad.
25. Keema
Minced meat cooked with peas and spices, Keema is a versatile dish that can be made with lamb, chicken, or beef. It’s low in carbs and high in protein.
26.Chicken Saagwala
Chicken cooked with spinach, this dish is both nutritious and low in carbs. The green sauce is made with pureed spinach, spices, and a touch of cream.
27. Prawn Masala
Prawns are low in carbs and rich in protein. Cooked in a spicy tomato gravy, Prawn Masala is a flavorful dish that can be paired with a salad.
28. Mutton Curry
A slow-cooked dish made with tender pieces of mutton in a spiced gravy. The richness of the meat combined with the aromatic spices makes it a satisfying low-carb meal.
29. Chicken Shashlik
Grilled chicken skewers marinated in spices, Chicken Shashlik is a tasty low-carb option that’s perfect for a quick meal or a party appetizer.
Marinated in yogurt and spices, Fish Tikka is grilled until tender. It’s a light, low-carb dish that’s rich in flavor.
31. Bhuna Chicken
Chicken pieces are slow-cooked with onions, tomatoes, and spices until all the moisture evaporates, resulting in a dry, flavorful dish that’s low in carbs.
32. Tandoori Fish
Like Tandoori Chicken, Tandoori Fish is marinated in yogurt and spices, then grilled. It’s a light and healthy low-carb option.
33. Egg Bhurji
Indian-style scrambled eggs with onions, tomatoes, and spices. It’s a quick, low-carb breakfast or snack option.
34. Chicken Kebab
Ground chicken mixed with spices and grilled on skewers, Chicken Kebabs are a high-protein, low-carb snack or main dish.
35. Mutton Seekh Kebab
Minced mutton mixed with spices and grilled on skewers, Seekh Kebabs are rich in flavor and low in carbs.
36. Fish Moilee
A South Indian dish made with fish cooked in coconut milk and spices. It’s a light, low-carb option that’s both creamy and flavorful.
37. Chicken Chettinad
A spicy South Indian dish made with chicken and a blend of spices, Chicken Chettinad is low in carbs and high in flavor.
38. Lamb Vindaloo
A spicy and tangy dish made with lamb, vinegar, and a blend of spices. Lamb Vindaloo is low in carbs and perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors.
39. Prawn Balchao
A Goan delicacy made with prawns in a spicy, tangy sauce. It’s low in carbs and pairs well with cauliflower rice or a salad.
Chicken marinated in cream and mild spices then grilled. Chicken Malai Tikka is rich, creamy, and low in carbs.
Desserts
41. Almond Halwa
Made with almond flour, ghee, and a sugar substitute, Almond Halwa is a rich and satisfying low-carb dessert.
42. Coconut Barfi
Coconut Barfi is made with grated coconut, ghee, and a sugar substitute. It’s a sweet, low-carb treat that’s perfect for special occasions.
43.Rasgulla (Sugar-Free)
A traditional Bengali dessert made with cottage cheese balls soaked in a sugar-free syrup. Rasgulla can be enjoyed without guilt on a low-carb diet.
44. Keto Ladoo
These energy balls are made with almond flour, ghee, and a sugar substitute. Keto Ladoo is a low-carb alternative to traditional ladoos.
45. Paneer Kheer
A creamy dessert made with paneer (cottage cheese), milk, and a sugar substitute. Paneer Kheer is rich in protein and low in carbs.
46. Chocolate Cake: Made with almond flour, cocoa powder, and a sugar substitute, Keto Chocolate Cake is a decadent low-carb dessert that’s perfect for celebrations.
47. Coconut Flour Halwa
A variation of traditional halwa, this dessert is made with coconut flour, ghee, and a sugar substitute. It’s low in carbs and high in flavor.
48. Keto Phirni
A creamy, rice-free version of the traditional Indian dessert, Phirni is made with almond flour, milk, and a sugar substitute.
49. Keto Gajar Halwa
Made with grated carrots, ghee, and a sugar substitute, this low-carb version of Gajar Halwa is just as delicious as the original.
50. Coconut Flour Halwa
A variation of traditional halwa, this dessert is made with coconut flour, ghee, and a sugar substitute. It’s low in carbs and high in flavor.
51. Keto Phirni
A creamy, rice-free version of the traditional Indian dessert, Phirni is made with almond flour, milk, and a sugar substitute.
52. Pumpkin Halwa
A low-carb dessert made with grated pumpkin
53. Keto Rasmalai
A low-carb version of the classic Rasmalai, this dessert is made with paneer and soaked in a saffron-flavored, sugar-free milk syrup. It’s creamy, indulgent, and perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.
54. Keto Besan Ladoo
Made with besan (gram flour), ghee, and a sugar substitute, Keto Besan Ladoo offers the traditional taste of ladoo but with fewer carbs, making it a great choice for festive occasions.
55. Keto Jalebi
A low-carb twist on the classic Indian sweet, Keto Jalebi is made using almond flour and fried to perfection. It’s soaked in a sugar-free syrup, making it a delightful treat.
56. Keto Coconut Macaroons
These simple yet delicious macaroons are made with coconut, egg whites, and a sugar substitute. They’re low in carbs and perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
57. Keto Shrikhand
Shrikhand is a traditional Indian yogurt-based dessert, and the keto version uses full-fat yogurt with a sugar substitute. Flavored with saffron and cardamom, it’s creamy and rich without the carbs.
58. Keto Badam Burfi
Almond flour, ghee, and a sugar substitute come together to create a rich and satisfying Keto Badam Burfi. This low-carb dessert is perfect for special occasions or when you’re craving something sweet.
59. Keto Peda
Made with milk powder, ghee, and a sugar substitute, Keto Peda is a quick and easy low-carb dessert that tastes just like the traditional version.
60. Keto Coconut Ladoo
These coconut ladoos are made with desiccated coconut, ghee, and a sugar substitute. They’re low in carbs and make for a quick, sweet treat.
61. Keto Sooji Halwa
Replacing traditional semolina with almond flour, this Keto Sooji Halwa is flavored with cardamom and ghee, offering the same comforting taste with fewer carbs.
62. Keto Malpua
A low-carb version of the traditional Indian pancake dessert, Keto Malpua is made with almond flour and fried in ghee. It’s soaked in a sugar-free syrup, making it a sweet and indulgent treat.
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