Forget that pumpkin spice latte because this post is all about scrumptious Indian pumpkin recipes.
And from bread to curry, there’s plenty to choose from.
People worldwide enjoy cooking with pumpkins, and Indians are no exception.
In fact, some spectacular pumpkin recipes can be found in Indian cuisine.
I’m a huge fan of crispy pumpkin pakora, and the creamy pumpkin kheer is a terrific way to end a meal.
So, if you’re looking for some new ways to use up those pumpkins, try these Indian pumpkin recipes. I know you’ll love them as much as I do!
Easy Indian Pumpkin Curry and More!
1. Indian Pumpkin Curry (Kaddu ka Bharta)
Some of my friends avoid cooking Indian food at home. They love it but insist it’s just too hard to make.
Well, that certainly isn’t the case with this recipe.
It takes just 20 minutes to prepare. Plus, the Instant Pot will do most of the work for you.
It’s a delightfully spiced Indian curry that’s both gluten-free and vegan-friendly.
So, if you think pumpkin spice is good, wait until you try this spiced pumpkin curry.
2. Kaddu Ki Sabzi (Pumpkin Sabzi)
Here’s another simple Indian recipe that takes less than 30 minutes to whip up. It uses just ten ingredients, and most of those are seasonings.
From the earthy, herby flavors to the bright pumpkin, this is best served with rice or quinoa.
That said, I also enjoy it with warm naan bread!
3. Tangy Tamarind Pumpkin Curry
Looking for a vegetarian pumpkin dish with a bit more tang? This tamarind pumpkin curry is an excellent option.
It has plenty of spice along with tanginess. Though it’s not overly spicy, so it’s ideal for most palates.
It takes a bit longer to cook than the first two recipes. But you can still have it on the table in less than an hour.
It’s a bright, zingy dish the whole family will enjoy.
4. Pumpkin Bread Recipe (Eggless & Vegan)
On the hunt for a tasty vegan bread recipe? This one contains no eggs, milk, or dairy, but it’s fully loaded with pumpkin goodness.
You’ll also add plenty of fall spices!
Trust me, this pumpkin bread will have you drooling long before it hits the table.
The smell of baking cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and ginger is exquisite.
And while the chopped nuts are optional, they provide a pleasant crunchy contrast to all that moisture.
Feel free to mix in some chocolate chips too!
5. Pumpkin Sambar | Poosanikai Sambar
Sambar is a tasty, hearty Indian dish that’s perfect for cool days.
It contains lentils and veggies in a brothy base. But this version calls for large chunks of pumpkin instead of the usual garden veggies.
Simple, filling, and gorgeous with that yellow hue, this is a lovely addition to any dinner table. Give it a try tonight!
6. Manjal Poosanikai Sambar / Pumpkin and Lentil Sambar (Vegan)
Here’s another scrumptious sambar recipe with far more veggies than the first.
It, too, includes pumpkin. However, there are also onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and more.
Fragrant and flavorful, this is impossible to resist.
If you want to stick to Indian cuisine, serve it with naan bread. But it’s also tasty with thick, dark, crusty bread.
7. Avial
Need a healthier alternative to fries or chips? Consider this divine avial recipe.
It’s a simple mixture of veggies coated in salt, turmeric, and coconut paste. They’re tender, salty snacks to enjoy any time of day.
Make them with whatever veggies you like best, or stick with the pumpkin, plantains, and beans if that’s all you have.
Either way, you won’t be disappointed.
8. Pumpkin Erissery (Pumpkin in Spiced Coconut Sauce
Are you looking for a new and delicious way to use pumpkin? This Kerala-style dish made with roasted pumpkin, coconut, and spices is calling your name!
Tasty, straightforward, and loaded with spicy flavors, you’ll love the creamy texture.
Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and nutritious. What more could you want?
9. Pumpkin Halwa
Do you enjoy pumpkin pie or sweet potato casserole? If so, you’ll go nuts for pumpkin halwa – even if you don’t like Indian food.
It has a similar consistency to sweet potato casserole. And it’s just as rich, sweet, and decadent.
Don’t skip the cashews and golden raisins on top! They take this already perfect dish up to an 11.
10. Khatta Meetha Kaddu (Sweet Sour Pumpkin)
I’ll admit; sweet and sour pumpkin isn’t for everyone. But if you enjoy that blend of flavors, I think you’ll really like this one.
Popular across northern India, it’s a unique flavored with sweet sugar and tart mango powder.
It’s also relatively healthy, so try it the next time you’re in the mood to snack.
11. Kaddu Ki Kheer (Pumpkin Kheer)
Kaddu ki kheer is a creamy pumpkin dish that’s essentially a type of dessert soup.
It’s sweet, pumpkiny, and slightly tropical. And from the cardamom and saffron to the rose water, it’s wonderfully fragrant.
If you don’t have saffron, turmeric will give you the same golden color. Just don’t overdo it, or it will affect the taste.
12. Kaddu Roti
Roti is a super popular and scrummy Indian flatbread. It’s often used as a side or a wrap for tasty fillings.
This version features spinach and pumpkin, making it more colorful and nutritious.
It’s a bright, easy-to-make dish that’s high in fiber and smells as good as it tastes.
If you’re looking for a simple, everyday Indian recipe, this is one of the best.
13. Pumpkin Pakora
Need a crispy and flavorful Indian side dish for your next feast? You can’t beat these heavenly pumpkin pakora.
They’re kind of a cross between fritters and hush puppies, with plenty of pumpkin and crunchy goodness.
There’s also a ton of spices that pack a wallop of flavor. Delish!
14. Goan Pumpkin Subzi | Dudyachi Bhaji
You can whip up this healthy vegetarian dish in just 20 minutes. And you’ll only need six ingredients to do it.
Pumpkin, onions, and coconut come together in a harmony of sweet and savory flavors.
Add a bit of turmeric and red chili powder, and you have something no one will turn down.
Despite being a light dish, it’s actually incredibly filling. Try it for lunch one day, and be amazed at how satisfied it keeps you until dinner.
15. Pumpkin Chana Curry
This recipe is ideal for days when you want something hearty, comforting, and yummy.
The combination of pumpkin and chickpeas makes for a delicious, nutrient-rich dish that’ll keep you warm all winter long.
So get cozy in your kitchen, and give this recipe a try.
16. Pumpkin Seed Chutney
The meat of the pumpkin isn’t the only part you can enjoy, you know. This Indian recipe utilizes pumpkin seeds instead, meaning you’re not wasting a bit!
You won’t eat this chutney by itself. However, it’s a great way to add a bit of nutty richness to a dish.
17. Pumpkin Chickpea Curry with Coconut Milk
Pumpkin chickpea curry has a lot going for it. It’s delicious, nutritious, filling, rich, creamy, vegan, and gluten-free.
It’s the kind of dish that just about anyone can enjoy.
Serve it alongside warm rice or quinoa, and you have a complete meal. The fact that it takes less than 30 minutes to make is just a bonus.