Lemongrass, or gandhatrina, blends seamlessly into Indian vegetarian meals. It adds a fresh, citrusy aroma to biryanis, dals, curries, and stir-fries, making everyday dishes flavorful, aromatic, and nourishing for the entire family.
Main Courses
These vegetarian dishes combine Indian favorites like biryani and dal with global flavors, showcasing lemongrass powder’s versatility in daily meals.
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Lemongrass Coconut Sabzi
Simmer 2 cups mixed veggies (cauliflower, peas), 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 1 cup coconut milk, 1 tsp turmeric, and ½ tsp red chili powder. Serve with rice. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Chana Masala
Cook 1 cup chickpeas with 1 tsp lemongrass powder, ½ cup tomato puree, 1 tsp garam masala, and 2 tbsp ghee. Serve with bhature. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Vegetable Biryani
Cook 2 cups rice with 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 1 cup mixed veggies, 1 tsp biryani masala, and 2 tbsp ghee. Garnish with fried onions. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Paneer Tikka
Marinate 8 oz paneer with 1 tsp lemongrass powder, ½ cup yogurt, and 1 tsp tikka masala. Grill, serve with mint chutney. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Toor Dal
Simmer 1 cup toor dal with 1 tsp lemongrass powder, ½ tsp turmeric, ½ cup tomatoes, and 1 tsp mustard seeds in 3 cups water. Temper with curry leaves. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Tofu Stir-Fry
Sauté 8 oz tofu, 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 1 cup bell peppers, and 2 tbsp soy sauce. Serve over rice. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Coconut Rice
Cook 2 cups rice with 1 tsp lemongrass powder and 1 cup coconut milk. Serve with 1 cup steamed veggies. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Rajma Curry
Cook 1 cup kidney beans with 1 tsp lemongrass powder, ½ cup tomato puree, and 1 tsp garam masala. Serve with rice. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Noodle Salad
Toss 8 oz rice noodles, 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 1 cup mixed veggies, and ¼ cup peanut sauce. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Moong Dal Soup
Simmer 1 cup moong dal, 1 tsp lemongrass powder, ½ cup tomatoes, and 1 tsp spices in 4 cups water. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Aloo Gobi
Sauté 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 2 cups cauliflower, 1 cup potatoes, and 1 tsp cumin seeds. Serve with roti. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Veggie Khichdi
Cook 1 cup rice, ½ cup moong dal, 1 tsp lemongrass powder, and 1 cup veggies with 1 tsp ghee. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Quinoa Bowl
Toss 2 cups quinoa, 1 tsp lemongrass powder, ½ cup cucumber, and ¼ cup lime vinaigrette. Serve chilled. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Stuffed Peppers
Fill 4 bell peppers with 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 1 cup rice, and 8 oz mashed paneer. Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Masala Noodles
Stir-fry 8 oz noodles with 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 1 cup mixed veggies, and 1 tbsp pav bhaji masala. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Chickpea Curry
Simmer 1 cup chickpeas, 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 1 cup coconut milk, and 1 tsp turmeric. Serve with rice. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Palak Paneer
Simmer 2 cups spinach, 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 8 oz paneer, and 1 tsp garam masala in ½ cup cream. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Millet Bowl
Combine 2 cups cooked millet, 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 1 cup roasted veggies, and ¼ cup sesame dressing. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Mushroom Curry
Simmer 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 2 cups mushrooms, ½ cup coconut milk, and 1 tsp coriander powder. Serve with rice. Serves 4. -
Lemongrass Sabzi Tacos
Fill 8 tortillas with 1 tsp lemongrass powder, 1 cup sautéed veggies, and ½ cup curd. Serves 4.
Tips for Using Lemongrass in Main Courses
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Use ½–1 tsp powder per serving for balanced citrus flavor.
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Pair with coconut milk, curry leaves, or tamarind to enhance aroma.
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Stir in while cooking for best infusion.
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Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
Lemongrass enhances vegetarian mains with a citrusy lift, from biryani to dals and curries. Its subtle aroma elevates everyday meals, making them flavorful, aromatic, and family-friendly.