Top Plant-Based Protein Recipes Inspired by Indian Flavors

Eating a plant-based diet in India is delicious, but hitting your daily protein goals can sometimes be a challenge. While dals, legumes, and tofu are fantastic, why not give your favorite meals a protein supercharge?

We've crafted two simple, high-protein recipes inspired by classic Indian flavors. These dishes seamlessly integrate unflavoured plant-based protein powder, boosting their nutritional value without compromising on taste. A great option is the AS-IT-IS Nutrition 100% Soy Protein Isolate (Buy on Amazon), which is tasteless and mixes easily into both savory and sweet dishes.

Before you start cooking, do you know your ideal protein intake? Use our Protein Calculator to find out!

1. High-Protein Masala Quinoa Pulao

This flavorful one-pot meal is a modern take on the classic pulao. We're swapping rice for protein-rich quinoa and adding a scoop of soy protein isolate to make it a complete meal for muscle repair and growth.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1.5 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp oil or ghee
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili, slit
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, beans)
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 1 scoop AS-IT-IS Nutrition 100% Soy Protein Isolate (Buy on Amazon)
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add the chopped onion and sauté until golden.
2. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chili, and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in the mixed vegetables, turmeric powder, and garam masala. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the rinsed quinoa and toast for a minute.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk the soy protein isolate with the water/broth until fully dissolved. This prevents clumps.
6. Pour the protein-infused liquid into the pan, add salt, and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce the heat, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
8. Fluff with a fork, garnish with fresh coriander, and serve hot.

2. Creamy Sprouts & Spinach Protein Smoothie

Moong sprouts are a staple in Indian diets. This smoothie transforms them into a creamy, delicious, and protein-packed drink that's perfect for a quick breakfast or post-workout recovery.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup moong sprouts, boiled or steamed
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1/2 banana, frozen
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 scoop AS-IT-IS Nutrition 100% Soy Protein Isolate (Buy on Amazon)
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or water)
• A pinch of cardamom powder (elaichi)
• 1 tsp jaggery powder or a pitted date for sweetness (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine all the ingredients in a high-speed blender.
2. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If it's too thick, add a little more almond milk or water.
3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately. The spinach provides iron, the sprouts and protein powder deliver a powerful protein punch, and the banana adds creaminess and energy.

Find Your Perfect Plant-Based Protein

These recipes work best with an unflavoured protein powder. Besides soy isolate, you could also try an unflavoured pea protein blend like the Origin 100% Natural Plant Protein Powder (Buy on Amazon).

Explore our full range of vegan and plant-based supplements on our Products page. Happy cooking!