Vegetarian Indian Dishes in Korea: Where to Eat Meat-Free Curry, Paneer & Thali

If you’re plant-based in Korea or simply craving rich, comforting vegetarian meals that go beyond bibimbap, Indian cuisine delivers. With its long-standing vegetarian roots and bold spice traditions, it’s no surprise that Indian restaurants across Korea offer some of the most satisfying meat-free options for both locals and expats.

And if you're unsure where to start, one place stands out: Varanasi Indian Restaurant in Daegu. Their paneer butter masala, vegetarian thali, and hearty dal makhani are favorites among travelers and Korean foodies alike. The atmosphere is welcoming, the spice levels are adjustable, and the vegetarian options feel like thoughtful dishes...not afterthoughts.

Why Indian Food is a Vegetarian Staple

India is home to one of the world’s largest vegetarian populations. Much of this stems from cultural, religious, and health traditions that have shaped Indian cooking into a rich tapestry of lentils, legumes, vegetables, and dairy. In Korea, this translates beautifully.

Indian restaurants across cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu regularly offer full vegetarian sections of their menu, and some go the extra step to balance bold spice with creamy, protein-rich dishes.

Popular Vegetarian Indian Dishes in Korea

Here’s what you’re most likely to find on the menu:

1. Palak Paneer

Spinach purée blended with spices and cubes of soft paneer cheese. Creamy, earthy, and especially popular with Korean diners.

2. Chana Masala

Chickpeas stewed in tomatoes, onions, and garam masala. High in protein and easy to pair with naan or rice.

3. Aloo Gobi

A dry curry of potatoes and cauliflower, spiced with turmeric and cumin. Great for those new to Indian flavors.

4. Dal Tadka

Yellow lentils cooked with garlic and cumin. Light, flavorful, and rich in fiber and protein.

5. Vegetable Biryani

Fragrant rice dish cooked with seasonal vegetables and whole spices. Served with yogurt or raita.

6. Paneer Butter Masala

A favorite at Varanasi, this dish swaps out meat for cubes of fresh paneer in a creamy tomato-based sauce.

Where to Eat Vegetarian Indian Food in Korea

Explore city-specific guides:

• Indian Restaurants in Korea: Where to Find Real Curry, Tandoori & Thali in 2025 — full national breakdown
• Varanasi Indian Restaurant in Daegu — full review and menu feature
• Varanasi Homepage — for location, delivery, and contact

Tips for Eating Vegetarian in Korea

• Ask for spice levels that suit your comfort. Most restaurants are happy to adjust.
• Don’t assume all dishes are vegetarian...ask about hidden meat broths.
• Look for “thali sets” for the best variety.
• Use apps like Shuttle and Baemin to find veg-friendly Indian restaurants near you.

Vegetarian Indian Food FAQ

Can I find vegan options at Indian restaurants in Korea? Yes. While many vegetarian dishes include paneer or ghee, restaurants like Varanasi can often customize dishes to be fully vegan on request.

Are Indian vegetarian meals spicy? They can be, but most places, especially those serving expats, allow you to adjust the spice. Start with mild if you’re unsure.

Is it hard to find Indian vegetarian food outside Seoul? Not necessarily. Busan and Daegu have reliable options. In Daegu, Varanasi is a solid choice for consistency, service, and flavor.

Can I get vegetarian Indian food delivered? Yes. Delivery platforms like Shuttle and Baemin list vegetarian-friendly Indian restaurants, including those that offer combo sets and full thali meals.

Indian vegetarian food in Korea is more than just a fallback. It’s flavorful, filling, and full of culture. Whether you're a long-term vegan or just looking to eat more plants, the options are growing...and delicious.

Looking for more? Start with our national breakdown: Indian Restaurants in Korea: Where to Find Real Curry, Tandoori & Thali in 2025.