Paneer Jalfrezi Recipe
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Paneer Jalfrezi is a classic North Indian dish that combines the rich flavors of soft homemade paneer (cottage cheese) with vibrant, colorful vegetables, creating a hearty, delicious side dish. A perfect blend of spices and a hint of sweetness from honey, this dish pairs beautifully with roti or steamed rice, making it a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner. This simple yet flavorful recipe brings together the natural sweetness of bell peppers and carrots, the savory goodness of paneer, and the aromatic touch of Indian spices to create an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 250 grams |
| Onion | 1, diced |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, diced |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, diced |
| Carrots (Gajjar) | 2, diced thin |
| Ginger | 1 inch, grated |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, grated |
| Tomato | 1, diced |
| Homemade Tomato Puree | 1 cup |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh Coriander Leaves (Dhania) | 1 stalk, finely chopped |
| Butter (softened) | 1 tablespoon |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preparing your paneer, tomato puree, and chopping the vegetables—onion, bell peppers, carrots, ginger, and garlic. Having everything ready before you begin cooking ensures a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai, heat a teaspoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds and allow them to splutter, releasing their earthy fragrance. Next, add the diced onions and sauté them for about 5 minutes, until they turn golden and soft. This caramelization enhances the flavor of the dish.
Step 3: Stir-fry the Vegetables
Add the grated ginger and garlic to the pan, followed by the diced red and green bell peppers and carrots. Stir-fry the mixture on medium heat for 5 to 6 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly but retain their vibrant color and crunch. This stir-frying technique helps lock in the vegetables’ natural flavors while making them tender enough to absorb the spices.
Step 4: Create the Spice Base
Now, it’s time to bring in the spices. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato puree, turmeric powder, garam masala powder, coriander powder, and salt to the pan. Stir everything together and let the mixture cook for 4 to 5 minutes. As the gravy thickens, the spices will coat the vegetables, creating a flavorful base for the dish.
Step 5: Add the Paneer and Final Touches
Once the gravy has thickened, add the honey to balance the heat and acidity. Then, gently add the paneer cubes to the pan, stirring them in carefully to ensure they are coated with the spicy gravy. Let the paneer cook in the gravy for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing it to soak in the flavors. Taste and adjust the salt and spice levels if needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves over the Paneer Jalfrezi for a burst of freshness. Transfer the dish to a serving bowl and serve it with a side of cool raita, steamed rice, or naan for a delightful meal.
Tips for Perfect Paneer Jalfrezi:
- Paneer: Homemade paneer works best for this recipe, as it has a soft texture that absorbs the spices well. If using store-bought paneer, ensure it is fresh and cut into cubes.
- Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables like peas or zucchini to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of garam masala, chili powder, and turmeric according to your spice tolerance. For a milder version, you can reduce the chili powder.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a side of paratha, chapati, or a simple bowl of steamed basmati rice to complement the rich flavors.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: ~230 kcal
- Protein: 12 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 18 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Sugar: 7 grams
This Paneer Jalfrezi is a deliciously flavorful side dish that is both satisfying and nutritious, offering a wonderful balance of spices, textures, and colors. Whether served on a weeknight or as part of a festive meal, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who enjoys the vibrant tastes of Indian cuisine!
