Dahi Wale Paneer Recipe – Paneer in a Creamy Curd Gravy
Dahi Wale Paneer is a rich, flavorful North Indian dish where tender pieces of paneer (cottage cheese) are simmered in a smooth, creamy curd-based gravy. With the combination of spices and fresh ingredients, this dish has the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and flavor, making it a restaurant-style favorite. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for those craving a hearty and satisfying vegetarian curry that’s both delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or preparing a special meal for yourself, Dahi Wale Paneer never fails to impress.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 400 grams |
| Garlic, chopped | 3 cloves |
| Ginger, chopped | 2 inches |
| Fresh Red chillies, chopped | 2 |
| Red Bell pepper (Capsicum), chopped | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander powder (Dhania) | 2 teaspoons |
| Garam masala powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Curd (Dahi/Yogurt) | 100 grams |
| Butter (Salted) | 1 tablespoon |
| Onions, sliced | 2 |
| Homemade tomato puree | 2 tablespoons |
| Cashew nuts (or almonds), ground into paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh cream | 50 grams |
| Coriander leaves (Dhania), for garnish | 1 tablespoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
Preparation Time: 65 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 80 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ginger-Garlic-Chili Paste:
Begin by adding chopped ginger, garlic, and fresh red chillies into a mortar and pestle. Grind them into a fine paste and set aside for later use. -
-
Marinate the Paneer:
In a bowl, combine chopped red bell pepper (capsicum), cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and mix everything well.
Divide this mixture into two equal portions.
To one of the portions, add the curd (yogurt), salt, and cubed paneer. Gently mix the ingredients to coat the paneer, and set aside to marinate for about 1 hour. -
Prepare the Gravy:
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the salted butter on low heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté them until they become soft and translucent.
Once the onions are soft, add the ginger-garlic-chili paste and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
After 2 minutes, add the capsicum-spice mixture to the pan and cook until the bell pepper turns soft. -
Add the Tomato Puree & Cashew Paste:
Stir in the homemade tomato puree, turmeric powder, cashew (or almond) paste, and salt to taste. Add water as needed to achieve the desired gravy consistency.
Let this mixture cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on medium heat. -
Add the Whisked Curd:
Once the gravy has thickened and the spices have cooked through, reduce the heat to low. Add the whisked curd (yogurt) to the pan and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring gently to combine. -
Shallow Fry the Paneer:
While the gravy is simmering, heat a non-stick pan and shallow fry or grill the marinated paneer cubes with a little oil. Cook the paneer pieces on both sides until they turn golden brown and slightly crisp. -
Final Touches:
Once the paneer is cooked, add it to the gravy and stir gently to incorporate. Let it cook together for another 2 minutes.
Stir in fresh cream and a tablespoon of lemon juice for a creamy and tangy finish.
Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves to add a burst of color and freshness. -
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Dahi Wale Paneer hot with a side of Palak Dal, Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita, Jeera Rice, Phulka, and a refreshing Kachumber Salad for a well-rounded, wholesome meal.
Tips & Variations:
- Paneer Substitute: If you’re unable to find fresh paneer, you can use store-bought paneer or tofu as a substitute.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan twist, substitute the paneer with tofu and use coconut milk or almond milk in place of fresh cream and curd.
- Add Vegetables: You can enhance the dish by adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or potatoes to the gravy for added texture and flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of fresh red chillies according to your spice preference.
Dahi Wale Paneer is a comforting dish with a rich, tangy, and aromatic gravy that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture and aromatic spices will transport you straight to the heart of North Indian cuisine.
