Tawa Paneer Masala Recipe – Flavors of Punjab on Your Plate!
Tawa Paneer Masala is a delightful North Indian dish that brings together the richness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and a medley of aromatic spices cooked on a tawa (griddle). Cooking on a tawa imparts a unique flavor and texture, making this dish a crowd favorite. Perfect for dinner, this creamy and spicy paneer dish pairs wonderfully with Tawa Paratha and Palak Raita. It’s a versatile recipe, ideal for weekday meals or as a lunchbox option for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (cottage cheese) | 3 cups, cut into pieces |
| Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | As needed |
| Cumin seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Shahi jeera (caraway seeds) | 1/2 teaspoon, roasted |
| Celery | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Onion | 1/2 cup, finely chopped |
| Garlic paste | 2 teaspoons |
| Coriander powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Tomato puree | 1 cup |
| Cream | 2 tablespoons |
| Green chilies | 1 teaspoon, finely chopped |
| Garam masala powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 310 mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Instructions
Follow this step-by-step guide to prepare the rich and flavorful Tawa Paneer Masala:
Step 1: Prepare the Paneer
- In a mixing bowl, combine the paneer cubes with turmeric powder, red chili powder, kasuri methi, and salt.
- Gently mix until the paneer is evenly coated with the spices. Let it marinate for about 20 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté the Paneer
- Heat a tawa or non-stick pan with a drizzle of oil.
- Lightly fry the marinated paneer cubes on both sides until golden brown. This should take about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Remove the paneer from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Masala Base
- In the same tawa, heat the remaining oil.
- Add cumin seeds and roasted shahi jeera, allowing them to crackle for about 15 seconds.
- Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn soft and translucent.
Step 4: Add Spices and Tomatoes
- Stir in the garlic paste, finely chopped green chilies, and coriander powder. Mix well and sauté for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Add the tomato puree and celery, cooking the mixture for 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Combine Paneer with Masala
- Add the fried paneer cubes to the masala base and gently fold them in.
- Pour in the cream and sprinkle garam masala powder. Mix well to coat the paneer with the creamy gravy.
- Cook the mixture for an additional 2–3 minutes on medium heat.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with Tawa Paratha, Palak Raita, or steamed basmati rice for a wholesome meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Tawa Paratha: Complement the Tawa Paneer Masala with flaky parathas cooked on the same tawa for an authentic experience.
- Palak Raita: A refreshing yogurt-based spinach side dish that balances the spiciness of the curry.
- Jeera Rice: Serve alongside aromatic cumin-flavored basmati rice for a comforting dinner.
Pro Tips for Perfect Tawa Paneer Masala
- Marination Matters: Allowing the paneer to marinate ensures the flavors seep in, making every bite more delicious.
- Tawa Magic: Cooking on a tawa enhances the dish’s flavor and gives it a unique texture. However, if unavailable, a regular frying pan works well too.
- Fresh Cream: For a richer taste, use fresh cream. Coconut cream can be used as a vegan alternative.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Control the heat by reducing or increasing the quantity of red chili powder and green chilies.
Tawa Paneer Masala is a testament to the versatility of North Indian cuisine, where simple ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors. Try this recipe today and savor the irresistible aroma and taste of this Punjabi delight!
