If you love Indian food but either can't or choose not to eat dairy, you'll be aware that dairy features prominently in Indian cooking. Ghee, which is clarified butter, is often used for frying, and paneer, which is a curd cheese, is often used as a meat replacement in vegetarian dishes. Additionally, cream and yogurt are used in many sauce and marinade recipes, but those who have a dairy-free diet don't have to stick with bland side dishes when eating out. There are several authentic Indian dishes that don't contain dairy and still offer all the flavour and variety associated with Indian cuisine. Here are four dairy-free dishes to look for the next time you visit an Indian restaurant:

Lamb Dhansak

Lamb dhansak is a one-pot stew that's hearty and rustic. It consists of lamb leg seasoned with a masala spice blend that includes cumin, coriander, cardamom, red chillies, ginger and turmeric. The lamb is cooked with yellow split lentils, tomatoes and aubergine, and tamarind paste is added to give the dish a tang that contrasts nicely with the fiery chillies and sweet tomatoes. Lamb dhansak can be enjoyed with rice or a side of steamed greens.

Keralan Fish Curry

Keralan fish curry has a coconut milk base and uses meaty fish, such as monkfish, cod and plaice. The sauce is seasoned with ginger, curry leaves, mustard seeds and green chillies. It's a fresh-tasting, light dish that's garnished with fresh coriander and served with steamed rice. This curry is ideal as a filling lunch or as part of a full-course dinner.  

Brown Lentil Dhal

Brown lentil dhal is a simple, wholesome dish with an earthy flavour. The lentils are cooked in a tomato-based sauce that's seasoned with garam masala, turmeric, chilli powder and ginger. Dhal is a slow-cooked dish that is often left to simmer for hours, which adds depth to its flavour. You can enjoy this dish with rice or roti, which is a traditional flatbread made with flour, salt and vegetable oil.

Jeera Aloo

Jeera aloo is a staple across India and consists of cubed potatoes sautéed with a variety of spices including cumin seeds, turmeric, chilli powder and coriander seeds. A little mango powder is added at the end of cooking to add a subtle tang to the dish. Jeera aloo can be eaten with rice and pickled vegetables or with flatbread and steamed greens.

These are just a few examples of authentic Indian dishes that don't contain dairy. Next time you visit your favourite Indian restaurant, look for these dishes on the menu or ask your server to recommend a traditional dairy-free dish.

To learn more, contact an Indian restaurant near you.