The paleo diet emphasises whole foods, lean proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats — which aligns beautifully with many Indian cooking traditions. Here's how to enjoy authentic Indian cuisine while staying true to your paleo principles.
Paleo-Friendly Indian Dishes
Tandoori Chicken
Spice-rubbed, clay-oven grilled — pure paleo
Lamb Seekh Kebab
Minced lamb with herbs and spices — no grains
Chicken Tikka
Skip the yogurt marinade for strict paleo
Fish Tandoori
Grilled fish with spices — excellent paleo protein
Lamb Chops
Bone-in, tandoor-grilled — ancestral eating
Chicken Jalfrezi (no cream)
Peppers, tomatoes, spices — vegetable-rich
Aloo Gobi (paleo-modified)
Cauliflower side (skip the potato for strict paleo)
Mixed Grill Platter
The ultimate paleo plate — all tandoori meats
What to Avoid on Paleo
- Rice: All grains excluded on strict paleo
- Naan/Chapati: Wheat-based breads are off-limits
- Lentil dishes (Dhal): Legumes excluded on paleo
- Chickpea dishes: Chana Masala is off-limits (legumes)
- Cream-based curries: Korma, Butter Chicken — dairy excluded
- Paneer: Cottage cheese = dairy
Paleo Ordering Strategy
- Focus on tandoori: The tandoor oven is your best friend on paleo
- Ask for no cream/yogurt: Many curries can be made without dairy
- Skip the carbs: No rice, no naan — enjoy curry on its own or with salad
- Choose tomato-based: Bhuna, Jalfrezi, and Madras are naturally dairy-free
- BYOB: Bring paleo-friendly red wine — no corkage at Jaflong