Protein-rich recipes: 5 vegetarian dishes that contain protein and are ideal for a Desi lunch

Did you know that almost every cell in the body contains protein? That’s how important protein is for the body! Many foods are rich in protein for our body. Eggs, chicken, fish and lamb – these non-vegetarian foods are known to be excellent sources of protein. However, vegetarians cannot eat such protein-rich non-vegetarian foods. So how can a vegetarian get protein in their diet? By consuming vegetarian foods that are also rich in protein! People have the misconception that only non-vegetarian foods are good sources of protein but the truth is that a lot of vegan foods are also rich in protein. Paneer, soybeans, chickpeas, kidney beans, beans, quinoa and tofu are all known to be high in protein. Keeping this in mind, we’ve found easy Indian lunch recipes that are high in protein and delicious in flavor!

Also Read: Protein Snacks: 5 Dal Bakes You Can Make So You Won’t Feel Guilty

Here are 5 protein-rich vegetarian lunch recipes:

1. Veg Soya Keema – Our Recommendation

Vegetarian variation of keema, this recipe replaces minced meat with soy beans! Soybeans are cooked in red chili powder, haldi, garam masala, coriander powder and more hot spices to give it a masaledaar flavor. Pair this with roti for a nutritious dinner.

Click here for the full recipe for Veg Soya Keema.

2. Matar Paneer

This classic paneer-style curry is a favorite that’s also packed with protein. Chunks of pastry and peas are soaked in a spicy and aromatic sauce to make this quick and easy curry. Matar paneer served with steamed rice is delicious.

Click here for the full recipe for Matar Paneer.

3. Chole

Often associated with bhature, chole-bhature is known as an unhealthy food combination. But the truth is that bok choy is high in fat, but chole is incredibly nutritious and delicious! Chickpeas are cooked in aromatic spices to create a delicious gravy. Instead of combining chole with bhature, choose a healthier alternative like roti.

Click here for the full recipe for Chole.

4. Rajma

Rajma chawal is probably one of the best comfort foods in Indian cuisine! Kidney beans are a great source of protein and when cooked with hot spices make a scrumptious curry. If you don’t want to eat rajma with chawal, you can also eat with roti.

Click here for the full recipe for Rajma.

5. Chana Dal Biryani

This vegetarian biryani from Hyderabadi cuisine is spicy and delicious! Also known as Qabooli biryani, it’s super easy to make and has high nutritional value, thanks to a combination of beans, herbs, and rice. You can pair this biryani with raita or salan.

Click here to see the full recipe for Chana Dal Biryani.

Try these protein-rich vegetarian recipes for lunch and let us know in the comments which one you like best!