The Rise of Plant-Based Indian Cuisine in the UK

by: Admin

Published On: 17-07-2025

Let’s be real — the UK food scene is changing. More and more people are moving toward plant-based eating — whether it’s for health, the environment, animal welfare, or just because it makes them feel better. From oat milk lattes to meat-free Mondays, going vegetarian or vegan is no longer a trend — it’s a lifestyle.

But here’s the fun part: Indian food has been doing plant-based goodness for centuries. Long before vegan became a buzzword, Indian grandmothers were cooking up soul-satisfying meals with no meat, no eggs, and no dairy — just pure flavour and love.

At Sherri’s, we’ve seen this shift first-hand. Our vegetarian and vegan dishes are getting just as much love as our classics like lamb samosas and Chicken Changezi. Whether you're desi or just desi at heart, plant-based Indian food is winning hearts in the UK like never before.

So what’s behind this rise? And why does Indian food fit so perfectly into the plant-based vibe? Let’s break it down.

1. Indian Cuisine Has Always Loved Vegetables

In many parts of India — especially Gujarat, Rajasthan, and South India — vegetarian food is a way of life. People grow up eating meals that are full of vegetables, pulses, grains, and spices.

From chana masala (spiced chickpeas) to aloo gobi (potato and cauliflower) to rajma chawal (kidney beans and rice) — Indian meals have always been hearty, balanced, and meat-free. And guess what? They taste amazing. You don’t feel like something is missing. In fact, you feel full, satisfied, and sometimes, even a bit nostalgic.

2. Spices Make All the Difference

One of the reasons some people feel bored with plant-based food is because it lacks flavour. But Indian food? That’s where spices come in.

Indian cooking doesn’t rely on meat to bring the taste — it’s all about the masalas. Turmeric, cumin, coriander, chilli, ginger, garlic, and garam masala — all bring heat, depth, aroma, and warmth to every dish.

Even something as simple as a bowl of lentils becomes a comfort bomb when it’s cooked with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a touch of asafoetida.

3. Dairy-Free? No Problem

Many people going vegan worry about giving up dairy — but in Indian food, there are loads of naturally dairy-free dishes that don’t feel like you’re missing anything.

• Baingan Bharta (smoky mashed aubergine)
• Chole (chickpeas in tomato gravy)
• Bhindi Masala (spiced okra)
• Tadka Dal (spiced lentils)

None of these need ghee, cream, or paneer. They’re flavour-packed and 100% plant-based.

At Sherri’s, we make sure our vegan options stay authentic — no animal-based broths or hidden dairy. Just real ingredients, cooked the traditional way, and served fresh and hot.

4. It’s Affordable, Filling, and Wholesome

Let’s be honest — eating plant-based in the UK can sometimes feel expensive. Vegan cheese, mock meats, fancy superfoods — it adds up.

But with Indian food, plant-based meals are:

• Budget-friendly
• Naturally filling
• Packed with protein from lentils, chickpeas, and beans
• Made with everyday ingredients like rice, flour, vegetables, and spices

It’s food that feels good without burning your pocket. Whether it’s a quick lunch thali, a warm samosa, or a spicy curry bowl — you get full, happy, and nourished.

5. A Big Win for Flexitarians and Curious Foodies

You don’t need to be 100% vegan to enjoy plant-based Indian food.

A lot of our regulars at Sherri’s are flexitarians — people who eat less meat but aren’t fully vegetarian. They might come in for a Chicken Tikka one day, and order Palak Tofu (spinach with tofu) or Vegan Dal Tadka the next.

And then there are foodies — the ones who love trying new dishes and exploring different flavours. They’re always amazed at how satisfying Indian vegan food is — bold in flavour, rich in culture, and easy on the tummy.

6. Indian Street Food

If you’ve ever had Indian street food, you know it’s full of vegan options.

• Pani Puri – crispy shells filled with spicy tangy water
• Bhel Puri – puffed rice mixed with chutneys and fresh veg
• Samosas – filled with spiced potato (or at Sherri’s, we also do a killer vegan version!)
• Aloo Tikki Chaat – spiced potato patties topped with chutneys, onions, and coriander

These snacks are not just vegan — they’re addictive. At Sherri’s, our chaat corner and plant-based street food snacks are flying off the shelves. Because once you try them, you get it.

7. Warm, Homey, and Soothing

There’s something about Indian plant-based food that just feels good.

It’s not just what you eat — it’s how it makes you feel. A warm bowl of dal. Fresh roti. A touch of pickle on the side. Some rice and sabzi. Simple, homey, and deeply satisfying.

Many of our UK customers say our vegan meals remind them of homemade food — even if they didn’t grow up with Indian cuisine.

It’s comfort food for the soul. The kind that makes you slow down, breathe, and enjoy every bite.

8. The Future is Desi… and Plant-Based

At Sherri’s, we believe food should be:

• Honest
• Fresh
• Rooted in culture
• Made for everyone — meat lovers, vegetarians, and vegans alike

That’s why we’re proud to offer a menu that celebrates both Indian tradition and modern lifestyle choices. Whether you’re plant-based by choice or just exploring new flavours, you’ll find something that speaks to your heart (and your taste buds).

From vegan samosas to tofu curries, chaat platters to spiced lentils — our plant-based offerings are just as comforting, exciting, and full of soul as everything else on our menu.

It’s Not a Trend — It’s a Movement

The rise of plant-based Indian cuisine in the UK isn’t just a passing phase. It’s a return to roots, a celebration of flavours, and a step towards conscious eating.

And at Sherri’s, we’re proud to be part of this shift — offering food that’s full of heart, packed with flavour, and good for the planet too.

So the next time you're in the mood for something tasty, comforting, and plant-powered — skip the salad.