Kadhai Paneer Recipe
Kadhai Paneer is a delightful dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of India, particularly from the Punjab region. This rich, aromatic curry showcases tender paneer cheese simmered in a spiced tomato and onion gravy, infused with the earthy essence of spices. Perfect for dinner, it pairs beautifully with Indian breads like naan or roti, making it a favorite for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) | 250 grams |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Green Capsicum (bell pepper) | 1 (finely chopped) |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Tomatoes (finely chopped) | 2 medium |
| Cardamom Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek leaves) | 1 tablespoon |
| Cooking Oil | As needed |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 14 g |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
Preparation Time
| Time Component | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
Servings
| Servings | 4 |
Cuisine
| Type | Punjabi |
|---|
Course
| Course | Dinner |
Diet
| Diet Type | High Protein Vegetarian |
Instructions
To create the sumptuous Kadhai Paneer, start by heating a generous amount of oil in a kadhai (a deep, circular Indian cooking vessel). Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion, green capsicum (bell pepper), grated ginger, and minced garlic, allowing them to sautรฉ together. Cook these ingredients until the onion turns soft and translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Next, incorporate the chopped tomatoes into the mixture along with turmeric powder, cumin powder, black pepper powder, red chilli powder, and salt. Stir everything well, letting the tomatoes soften, which will take an additional 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the base of your flavorful gravy.
Once the tomatoes have cooked down and released their juices, introduce the butter into the pan, followed by the cardamom powder. Allow this to simmer for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Now, gently fold in the paneer cubes and the kasuri methi. Stir well to ensure that the paneer is coated with the aromatic spices and buttery gravy. Cover the kadhai with a lid, reducing the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes. This final simmering will allow the paneer to absorb all the flavors of the dish.
Once done, turn off the heat and your Kadhai Paneer is ready to be served! Serve it hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves if desired, alongside warm naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. Enjoy the delightful taste and aroma that will surely elevate your dining experience!
This Kadhai Paneer recipe embodies the warmth and richness of Indian cuisine, making it not only a delicious dish but also a reflection of love and hospitality that is at the heart of every gathering. Enjoy cooking and savoring this delectable treat!
