Kadai Baby Corn Paneer Recipe
Description:
This vibrant and flavorful dish, Kadai Baby Corn Paneer, brings together the richness of homemade cottage cheese (paneer) and the crunchiness of baby corn in a spicy, aromatic sauce. Perfect for a vegetarian lunch, this North Indian recipe captures the essence of bold flavors, traditional spices, and a deliciously satisfying texture. With a base of onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices like garam masala, cardamom powder, and Kashmiri red chili powder, this dish is a delight for the taste buds. Serve it with phulka, dal, or aromatic vegetable pulao for a wholesome meal.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Baby corn (sliced) | 200 grams |
| Paneer (homemade cottage cheese, diced) | 200 grams |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Ginger (finely chopped) | 1-inch piece |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 3 cloves |
| Tomatoes (chopped) | 2 medium |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | ½ teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cardamom powder (Elaichi) | ½ teaspoon |
| Kashmiri red chili powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Ghee (for garnish) | 1 teaspoon |
| Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) | 1 teaspoon |
| Sunflower oil | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 kcal |
| Protein | 8 grams |
| Fat | 18 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 15 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 280 mg |
| Sugars | 6 grams |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Base:
Heat 1 teaspoon of sunflower oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Once the oil is slightly hot, add the finely chopped ginger and garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until aromatic. -
Sauté Onions:
Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 1-2 minutes. -
Cook Baby Corn:
Once the onions are translucent, add the sliced baby corn. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes, allowing the baby corn to soften and cook through. -
Add Tomatoes and Spices:
Next, add the chopped tomatoes along with turmeric powder, cardamom powder, and Kashmiri red chili powder. Stir everything together well, and cook for about 10 minutes or until the tomatoes are softened and the oil starts separating from the masala. -
Incorporate Paneer and Kasuri Methi:
Add the diced paneer and kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) to the pan. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients. Let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors of the masala. -
Final Touch:
Once the dish is well-cooked, check the seasoning and add salt to taste. Turn off the heat. -
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the Kadai Baby Corn Paneer with 1 teaspoon of ghee for added richness. Serve it hot with Dal Bukhara, phulka, or aromatic vegetable pulao for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Kadai Baby Corn Paneer
- Homemade Paneer: If you’re using store-bought paneer, make sure it is soft and fresh. For a more authentic taste, try using homemade paneer for a creamier texture and better flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels: You can adjust the level of heat in this dish by modifying the amount of Kashmiri red chili powder. If you prefer a spicier version, feel free to increase the quantity of red chili powder.
- Kasuri Methi Substitute: If you cannot find kasuri methi, you can use fresh fenugreek leaves or even a small handful of dried oregano as a substitute.
- Add Bell Peppers: For added texture and flavor, you can include bell peppers (capsicum) in this recipe. Simply chop them and stir-fry them along with the baby corn for a more vibrant dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Kadai Baby Corn Paneer is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish, combining the earthy flavors of baby corn and paneer in a spicy, aromatic gravy. The use of spices like garam masala, cardamom, and Kashmiri red chili powder enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients while keeping the dish mild enough to be enjoyed by everyone. The ghee garnish adds a layer of richness that takes this dish from simple to extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or a special occasion, this dish will surely impress your guests!
Enjoy your Kadai Baby Corn Paneer with your favorite sides for a delicious, well-rounded meal.
