Living Vegetarian in Glasgow: My Indian Kitchen in a New City

Moving from India to Glasgow wasn’t just a change in postcode—it was a shift in lifestyle, food, weather, and rhythm. But for someone like me, who finds home in a cold cup of iced coffee or a plate of cheesy pav bhaji, the journey has been surprisingly delicious.

If you’re new here, hi! I’m Aanchal— a Marwadi Indian vegetarian woman now living in the heart of Glasgow. This city has become my canvas for experimenting with flavors, adapting traditional Indian meals to Scottish ingredients, and trying out new comfort foods that suit our busy lives and colder weather.

🥦 Grocery Runs & Local Markets

One of the first things I did after moving was explore the local grocery scene. Glasgow is full of surprises! I found a cute little Indian store in the city centre where I get my basics—like haldi, jeera, and Maggi, of course. But I’ve also fallen in love with Aldi and Lidl for fresh veggies, paneer, and even pizza dough (you’ll see why soon!).

🍕 Adapting Indian Recipes with a Twist

Back home, meals were always rich in ghee, spices, and love. Here, I’ve started finding joy in quick, flavorful recipes that keep the soul happy and the tummy full—without spending hours in the kitchen.

Some of my current favorite homemade dishes in Glasgow:

• Paneer Tikka Quesadillas – A spicy fusion snack made in 15 minutes.

• Cheese Burst Pav Bhaji – Because why not combine your cravings?

• Vegetarian Korean Rice Bowl – For when I’m feeling fancy and want to pair it with a little soju.

• Bombay Toast Pahadi Sandwich – My friend's ultimate comfort craving that I’ve mastered over time.

Let me know in the comments if you want full recipes for these!

☁️ Navigating Food Cravings in Cold Weather

If you’re from India, you’ll know the kind of longing that hits when it's raining and you're far from home. Glasgow’s weather makes me crave chai and pakoras almost every week. So I’ve made it a ritual: Sunday evenings = hot chai, crispy onion bhajis, and a good chat with my friend.

Sometimes we also try new cafés around Merchant City or West End—Glasgow's food culture is growing and surprisingly vegetarian-friendly.

🌱 Being Vegetarian in a Non-Vegetarian World

Being vegetarian in Glasgow sometimes feels like being the only carrot in a sea of haggis. I often catch myself eyeing a plate of haggis with the same curiosity as a cat watching a cucumber. But hey, if that’s my biggest dilemma, I’m winning! Also, Glasgow’s weather has me thinking my chai should probably come with a double shot of caffeine—or maybe that’s just the cold messing with my brain.😅

📝 Final Thoughts

My food journey in Glasgow is still unfolding—just like my life here. Every dish I cook connects me with home while letting me explore a new side of myself. Whether you’re a student, working professional, or just someone craving Indian comfort food in the UK, I hope my little blog corner gives you something warm to hold onto.

Follow me on Instagram @aanchal._mehta for behind-the-scenes, and more of my daily life in Glasgow!

Until next time,

Aanchal Mehta 🫰