Bali has no shortage of places to eat, but when it comes to vegetarian Indian dishes that feel rich, flavorful, and satisfying enough for dinner, Red Gunpowder in Pererenan is one of my top recommendations. The restaurant offers a warm, intimate setting with a menu that blends traditional Indian techniques with a fresh and modern touch. Even if you are not vegetarian, the depth of flavor in these dishes makes them some of the most enjoyable options on the menu.
What I love most is that the vegetarian dishes here are not treated as afterthoughts. They are bold, layered with spices, and cooked with the same attention to detail as the meat options. Whether you want something creamy, spicy, or full of greens, the vegetarian section at Red Gunpowder has plenty of satisfying choices for dinner.
Below are my personal favorites if you are planning a vegetarian Indian dinner in Bali.
Top 5 Vegetarian Indian Dishes to Try in Bali
Palak Curry
The Palak Curry at Red Gunpowder is one of those dishes that instantly stands out because of its color and aroma. The spinach is cooked down until it becomes creamy and velvety, then mixed with spices like cumin, coriander, garlic, and a touch of garam masala. It has a smooth texture, almost like a green gravy, but still maintains the freshness of the spinach. The paneer is marinated with lemon, which gives it a bright, subtle tang that cuts through the richness of the curry. The combination of creamy greens and soft paneer makes this dish filling without feeling heavy, so it is perfect for dinner when you want something hearty but not overwhelming.
Makhani
The vegetarian version of the Makhani is a personal favorite whenever I am in the mood for something indulgent and comforting. The gravy is made from a blend of tomatoes, butter, and cashew paste, which gives it a naturally sweet and buttery taste. What I love most is the smoothness of the sauce. It coats every piece of paneer in a creamy layer that feels satisfying in every bite. The spices used are warm and gentle, like cinnamon, cardamom, and a touch of chili, but nothing too intense. This dish is ideal for anyone who enjoys rich, mellow flavors and wants a curry that feels soothing after a long day.
Paneer Tikka
Paneer Tikka here tastes like the perfect mix of smoky and savory. The paneer cubes are marinated in yogurt and spices, then grilled until the edges become slightly crisp while the inside stays soft and bouncy. You can actually taste the char from the grill, which adds an extra layer of flavor. The marinade usually includes turmeric, red chili powder, ginger, garlic, and lemon juice. When the dish arrives, the paneer sits on top of vegetables or a light salad, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. It is a great choice if you want a vegetarian main that is rich in flavor without being a curry.
Aloo Gobi
Aloo Gobi is a classic Indian vegetarian dish, and Red Gunpowder makes it in a way that feels both comforting and memorable. The cauliflower and potatoes are cooked until tender but not mushy, and each piece is coated evenly in a mix of spices like cumin, turmeric, ginger, and coriander. The flavors are warm and earthy, and the vegetables absorb the seasoning beautifully. The dish has a dry texture compared to curries, which makes it a nice contrast to something creamy or saucy on the table. If you love well seasoned veggies, this is the dish you will keep coming back to.
Dal Tadka
The Dal Tadka is one of the most comforting dishes on the menu. The lentils are simmered until they reach a creamy consistency, almost like a soft stew. What makes it special is the tadka, which is the tempering of spices poured over the dal. Red Gunpowder uses garlic, cumin seeds, mustard seeds, dried chilies, and ghee for the tempering, giving the dish a warm, buttery aroma. The flavor is mild but deeply satisfying, making it perfect to pair with rice. It is the type of dish that feels nourishing and grounding, especially if you want a dinner that is cozy and soothing.
Sides That Complete the Meal
The vegetarian dishes at Red Gunpowder shine even more when paired with rice or roti. Saffron rice adds a gentle floral aroma that lifts creamy curries like Makhani or Palak. Roti has a soft, chewy texture that works perfectly for scooping up gravies or wrapping around pieces of paneer. If you want a fuller meal, adding both rice and roti lets you enjoy different textures with each dish.
The Experience
The atmosphere at Red Gunpowder is warm and intimate, with lots of wooden textures and candlelight that makes dinner feel relaxed and inviting. The service is friendly, and the pace of the meal allows you to enjoy each dish without feeling rushed. It is the type of place where vegetarian food does not feel like a compromise. Whether you are vegetarian or not, the flavors here make the dishes satisfying enough to stand on their own.
Tips for Ordering
- Choose at least two different vegetarian dishes so you get a mix of textures, something creamy, something smoky, maybe something with a little crunch.
- Pair your meal with rice or roti to bring everything together; the sauces and gravies taste even better when you have something to scoop them up with.
- If you’re visiting during dinner hours, it’s best to book ahead since the restaurant gets busy quickly.
- Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for spice adjustments. They’re great at tailoring the heat level without changing the flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a vegetarian Indian dinner in Bali that feels rich, comforting, and thoughtfully crafted, Red Gunpowder is one of the best places to visit. Every dish is layered with flavor, from the creamy depth of Makhani to the smoky char of Paneer Tikka and the warm, nourishing simplicity of Dal Tadka. The textures are satisfying, the portions feel generous, and the atmosphere elevates the entire meal. It’s the kind of dinner that leaves you full, happy, and already planning what to try on your next visit.
