India has a rich tradition of vegetarian cooking that spans thousands of years. At Masala House in Concord, we take pride in our extensive vegetarian menu that showcases the diversity and depth of flavors in Indian vegetarian cuisine. Here are ten must-try vegetarian dishes that our Contra Costa County customers love.
1. Paneer Butter Masala
This creamy, indulgent dish features cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a rich tomato and butter sauce. The velvety gravy is infused with aromatic spices and finished with a touch of cream. It's one of our most popular dishes among Concord diners, perfect with garlic naan or jeera rice.
2. Dal Makhani
A staple of North Indian cuisine, Dal Makhani is a luxurious black lentil dish simmered overnight with kidney beans, butter, and cream. The slow cooking process develops deep, complex flavors that have made this dish a favorite throughout Contra Costa County. Our recipe has been perfected over generations.
3. Chana Masala
This protein-rich chickpea curry is cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. It's hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor. At Masala House Concord, we prepare our Chana Masala with a special blend of spices that gives it a distinctive taste that sets it apart from other restaurants in the East Bay.
4. Malai Kofta
These vegetable and cheese dumplings are simmered in a creamy sauce that's mildly spiced and incredibly flavorful. The koftas are soft on the inside with a slight crispness on the outside, creating a wonderful textural contrast. It's a celebration dish that's perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something special in Concord.
5. Palak Paneer
Cubes of paneer are immersed in a vibrant, creamy spinach sauce that's as nutritious as it is delicious. The earthy flavors of the spinach are balanced with subtle spices and a touch of cream. It's a favorite among health-conscious diners in Concord and throughout Contra Costa County.
6. Aloo Gobi
This classic combination of potatoes and cauliflower is seasoned with cumin, turmeric, and other spices. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that showcases how basic ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary with the right spices and cooking techniques. Our Concord customers often comment on the perfect balance of spices in our Aloo Gobi.
7. Baingan Bharta
Roasted eggplant is mashed and cooked with onions, tomatoes, and spices to create a smoky, flavorful dish that's a favorite throughout India. The charring of the eggplant over an open flame gives this dish its distinctive smoky flavor that's hard to resist. It's a must-try for eggplant lovers visiting our Concord location.
8. Vegetable Biryani
Fragrant basmati rice is layered with mixed vegetables and aromatic spices, then slow-cooked to perfection. Each grain of rice is separate and infused with flavor. Our Vegetable Biryani is a complete meal in itself and a favorite for takeout orders throughout the East Bay area.
9. Pani Puri
These crispy hollow puris filled with spicy tangy water, tamarind chutney, and chickpeas are a beloved street food throughout India. At Masala House Concord, we bring this authentic street food experience to you in a restaurant setting. It's a fun, interactive dish that's perfect for sharing and introducing friends to Indian cuisine.
10. Dosa
This South Indian specialty is a thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter. It's typically served with sambar (a vegetable and lentil stew) and coconut chutney. Our dosas are enormous—extending beyond the plate—and have become Instagram-famous among our Concord and Pleasant Hill customers!
The Health Benefits of Vegetarian Indian Cuisine
Beyond their incredible flavors, these vegetarian dishes offer numerous health benefits:
- Protein-Rich: Lentils, chickpeas, and paneer provide excellent plant-based protein
- Spice Benefits: Turmeric, cumin, and other spices have anti-inflammatory properties
- Vegetable Variety: Indian cuisine incorporates a wide range of vegetables
- Balanced Nutrition: Traditional combinations provide complementary nutrients
Vegetarian Dining in Concord
At Masala House, we're proud to offer one of the most extensive vegetarian menus in Concord. Whether you're a committed vegetarian or simply looking to explore meat-free options, our diverse selection ensures you'll find something to love.
Visit us to experience these dishes and more, prepared with authentic techniques and the freshest ingredients. Our chefs are also happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences—just let your server know when ordering.
Join us for our Vegetarian Wednesday special, where we offer a rotating selection of vegetarian specialties not normally on our menu. It's become a popular tradition among vegetarian food enthusiasts throughout Contra Costa County!
