10 Chindian recipes that we are sorry not sorry for

When you think of Indian food, the first thing that usually comes to mind are full-bodied flavours and spices. And considering the complex flavour profile that we are used to, it wouldn't be untrue to say that we also have a way of desi-fying almost any food we eat. It's the same with Chinese food. Chindian food (Indo-Chinese) in India has been a crowd favourite for many years now. Think manchurian chicken, chilli paneer, schezwan rice, chinese bhel and the likes. If you're like us, condiments like soy, schezwan, green chilli and red chilli sauce will be staples in your kitchen cabinets. And if you're looking to tantalize your taste buds, you can put them to good use with a little help from us.

Check out these 10 easy Chindian recipes that are perfect to whip up for meals with friends, family or even a date.

Veg manchurian

This party buffet-staple is easy to create at home but looks like it took hours. Our recipe shows you how to seamlessly shape and fry the veggie balls so that they retain their texture. Check it out.

Hot & sour soup

On cold winter days or rainy nights, a comforting bowl of soup is just what you need. And this hot and sour soup will fulfill all your spicy and sour food cravings. Watch this video to get that restaurant-style soup at home. It also shows you how to make the crispy noodles that come atop the soup (honestly, the best part)

Indian Chinese samosa

If you're looking for a chai-time snack or a fun appetizer, this Chinese samosa is what you need. It's crispy and the filling is full of veggies that are lightly flavoured with soy sauce. Serve them hot and you have got yourself a winning dish.

 Chinese veg noodles

Also commonly known as Hakka noodles, this is our favorite childhood (and adulthood) snack. A popular snack across all generations this vegetable riddled noodle dish always hits the spot. Don't shy away from the ajinomoto used in the recipe either, it's the secret ingredient that will take the flavours in your preparation to the next level.

Paneer chilli dry

Now, this one is always eaten in restaurants but did you know how easy it is to make at home? Flavour-packed and vegetarian, it's the perfect starter for a desi chinese meal at home. Watch our step by step video to replicate this delicious dish.

Schezwan chicken

This one-pot recipe is a great non-veg main option for your party or weekly dinner menu. Made with pantry staples like tomato sauce and chilli sauce, it comes together quickly and is rich in flavour. We bet your guests will be asking for the recipe.

Schezwan fried rice

One of the most popular dishes in the Indo-Chinese micro cuisine, this dish has the right balance of sweet, salty and spicy, and is made with only five ingredients. Great as a meal or a snack, this dish deserves a place on your what-to-cook list.

Chinese pav bhaji

The Chinese pav bhaji brings together two desi favourites; pav bhaji and noodles. It's got pav bhaji masala, a chow mein flavour and well cooked noodles. Don't shun it before you try it. Serve it with hot, buttery pavs and you're set.

Chilli chicken

This one needs no introduction. It's our go-to late-night binge food, a trusted family dinner main and an indulgence on the days we just feel meh. We've taken this classic and made it simpler and healthier so that you have an excuse to eat it more often.

Idli manchurian

It doesn't get more desi or unique than this. Putting fried idli and manchurian together creates some type of magic and lucky for you, we have a recipe that you can follow to replicate this at home.