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Indian meal plan for free

Explore the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine with the Indian Meal Plan for Free. This plan offers a variety of delicious and nutritious meals that you can enjoy without spending a dime. Discover how easy it is to eat well and enjoy authentic Indian dishes on a budget.

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Meal plan grocery list

Lentils

Rice

Potatoes

Onions

Tomatoes

Carrots

Cabbage

Cauliflower

Spinach

Green peas

Eggplant

Bell peppers

Ginger

Garlic

Green chilies

Coriander leaves

Cumin seeds

Mustard seeds

Turmeric powder

Chili powder

Garam masala

Whole wheat flour

Yogurt

Milk

Eggs

Chicken

Mackerel

Red lentils

Chickpeas

Black beans

Paneer

Apples

Bananas

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Meal plan overview

Eating well on a budget is easy with the Indian Meal Plan for Free. This plan features affordable, nutritious Indian meals that make the most of inexpensive ingredients like lentils, rice, and seasonal vegetables. Enjoy a variety of delicious dishes without breaking the bank.

Each day provides cost-effective meal ideas that are simple to prepare and full of flavor. This plan ensures you can eat healthily and enjoyably while sticking to a tight budget.

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Foods to eat

  • Complex Carbs: Sweet potatoes, quinoa, and whole grain pasta provide lasting energy for long runs.
  • Lean Proteins: Chicken, fish, and legumes help repair and build muscles after intense training.
  • Healthy Fats: Nuts, seeds, and avocados support overall health and energy levels.
  • Fresh Fruits: Berries, oranges, and apples are great for hydration and vitamin C intake.
  • Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with iron and other essential nutrients.

✅ Tip

Opt for slow-releasing carbs like sweet potatoes and quinoa to fuel long runs and maintain energy levels.

Foods not to eat

  • High-Fat Foods: Limit intake of fried foods and fatty cuts of meat that can slow digestion and cause discomfort.
  • Refined Sugars: Avoid candies, pastries, and sugary cereals that can lead to energy crashes.
  • Carbonated Drinks: Soda and fizzy drinks can cause bloating and discomfort during runs.
  • Heavy Dairy: Limit whole milk and creamy sauces that can be hard to digest.
  • Processed Foods: Steer clear of processed snacks and meals that are low in nutrients and high in additives.

Main benefits

Following a 30-day meal plan for runners can optimize your performance by providing the right balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to fuel your runs. This plan can enhance your recovery with meals rich in essential nutrients that repair muscles and reduce soreness. It also supports consistent energy levels, preventing fatigue during long runs. Additionally, the plan can help maintain an ideal body weight, improving your overall running efficiency and endurance.

🎓 Recommended nutrient breakdown

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fiber

Other

Food alternatives

To create a cost-effective and nourishing Indian meal plan, consider these substitutions:

  • For a protein-rich dal, chana dal can replace red lentils in soups and stews.
  • To boost flavor and nutrients, coriander leaves can replace spinach in dals and curries.
  • For added fiber, rolled oats can replace whole wheat flour in roti or parathas.
  • To enhance flavor, tamarind paste can replace tomatoes in sambar and chutneys.
  • For a nutrient-rich breakfast, poha can replace rice in morning meals.

How to budget on this meal plan

The Indian meal plan for free emphasizes using affordable, everyday ingredients. Utilizing staples like rice, lentils, and seasonal vegetables can keep costs low while providing balanced nutrition. Growing your own herbs like coriander and mint at home can save money and add fresh flavor to your dishes. Cooking larger batches and freezing portions can help manage your budget by reducing waste and minimizing the need for takeout. Additionally, repurposing leftovers creatively can make your ingredients go further without feeling repetitive.

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Extra tips

Any healthy snack ideas?

Here are some budget-friendly Indian snacks:

  • Roasted chana (chickpeas)
  • Boiled eggs
  • Peanut chikki
  • Vegetable poha
  • Sprouted moong dal salad
  • Homemade buttermilk
  • Seasonal fruits like bananas

What should I drink on this meal plan?

For a budget-friendly Indian meal plan, drink options include water, homemade buttermilk, and simple herbal teas made with ginger or tulsi (holy basil). Avoid expensive sugary drinks and focus on affordable, hydrating options that also offer health benefits.

How to get even more nutrients?

To eat nutrient-dense meals on a budget, focus on affordable and wholesome Indian ingredients. Choose protein sources like lentils, beans, and eggs, seasoned with readily available spices. Include inexpensive vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and cabbage for essential vitamins and minerals. Add whole grains like rice and whole wheat flour for fiber and energy. Finish with seasonal fruits like bananas or guavas to add natural sweetness and additional nutrients. This approach ensures balanced nutrition without high costs.

Meal plan suggestion

Indian Meal Plan for Free

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Spinach and paneer paratha with yogurt
  • Lunch: Chicken biryani with carrots and peas, side of raita
  • Dinner: Red lentil dal, rice, and cabbage stir-fry
  • Snack: Banana and apple slices

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Chilla made with chickpea flour and onions, served with mint chutney
  • Lunch: Mackerel fish curry with tomatoes and bell peppers, served with rice
  • Dinner: Aloo gobi with chapati
  • Snack: Yogurt with grated apple

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Vegetable omelette with onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers
  • Lunch: Chana masala with basmati rice
  • Dinner: Palak paneer with chapati
  • Snack: Roasted black beans with turmeric and chili powder

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Paneer and vegetable stuffed paratha, mint yogurt
  • Lunch: Lentil soup with carrots and spinach, served with rice
  • Dinner: Chicken saagwala
  • Snack: Sliced bananas with a sprinkle of garam masala

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Savory porridge made with oats and mixed vegetables
  • Lunch: Eggplant and pea curry with chapati
  • Dinner: Grilled mackerel with a side of tomato and onion salad
  • Snack: Fresh carrot and apple juice

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Cabbage and paneer stuffed paratha with coriander chutney
  • Lunch: Kadhi pakora and rice
  • Dinner: Mixed vegetable curry with chapati
  • Snack: Roasted chickpeas with garam masala

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Whole wheat pancakes with grated apple and banana
  • Lunch: Chicken curry with potatoes and cauliflower, served with rice
  • Dinner: Paneer tikka masala with chapati
  • Snack: Sliced cucumber with yogurt dip

Download the FREE grocery list for this meal plan

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Want to learn more?

⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.