With a few smart techniques and the right spices, you can whip up delicious, satisfying dishes without using a single drop of oil.
Whether you’re watching your cholesterol, exploring plant-based living, or just giving your gut a break, these 5 no-oil recipes prove that you don’t need grease to feast.
1. Moong Dal Khichdi (No-Oil Comfort Bowl)
Why it works:
Khichdi is India’s original comfort food. And when made without oil or ghee, it still holds up—especially with the natural creaminess of moong dal and fragrant spices like hing, cumin, and turmeric.
How to prep it:
Soak moong dal and rice. Pressure cook with salt, turmeric, grated ginger, and vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach. Add roasted cumin powder on top. That’s it!
Pro Tip: Dry-roast cumin and hing before adding for extra flavor without oil.
2. No-Oil Hummus
Why it works:
Hummus traditionally uses olive oil, but you can make a rich, creamy version by swapping it with extra tahini and ice-cold water. The result? Just as velvety, but lower in fat.
How to prep it:
Blend boiled chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and a bit of cold water until smooth. Season with salt and smoked paprika.
Pair with: Baked pita chips or cucumber slices.
3. Steamed Veggie Chilla (Savory Pancake)
Why it works:
This besan-based Indian pancake doesn’t need oil if you use a non-stick or cast iron tawa. Packed with grated veggies, it’s satisfying and protein-rich.
How to prep it:
Mix besan (gram flour), grated carrot, onion, spinach, green chilies, salt, and ajwain (carom seeds). Pour onto a heated non-stick pan, cover, and let it steam on low flame till cooked.
Make it fun: Add beetroot or grated zucchini for variation.
4. Stir-Fried Greens (Minus the Stir-Fry Oil)
Why it works:
Water sautéing is a game changer. It allows you to soften greens like spinach, kale, or methi using just a splash of water or veggie stock, without losing nutrients.
How to prep it:
Sauté garlic, onions, and chopped greens in a heated pan using a tablespoon of water or veggie stock. Add salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to finish.
Flavour boost: Add chopped ginger or green chilies for spice.
5. No-Oil Roasted Potatoes
Why it works:
Crispy roasted potatoes without oil? Yes! All it takes is the right seasoning and oven timing. A sprinkle of semolina gives them crunch.
How to prep it:
Boil potatoes till slightly soft. Toss with semolina, salt, pepper, and rosemary or garlic powder. Bake at 200°C for 25–30 minutes.
Optional: Squeeze fresh lemon on top for tang.
Oil may amplify flavor, but it isn’t the only route to deliciousness. These 5 no-oil recipes prove that light cooking doesn’t have to mean light on flavor. In fact, they might just convert your most skeptical foodie friends.
Because sometimes, the best meals come from cutting out the unnecessary—and keeping only what truly nourishes.
