Masala Paneer Recipe
Masala Paneer Recipe – A Spicy and Flavorful Delight
Masala Paneer Recipe Masala Paneer is a rich, spicy, and aromatic Indian curry where paneer (Indian cottage cheese) is cooked in a flavorful tomato-based masala gravy. This dish pairs perfectly with roti, naan, or jeera rice.
Ingredients
For the Masala Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 green chili (finely chopped)
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Salt to taste
- ¼ cup fresh cream (optional, for creaminess)
For the Paneer:
- 200g paneer (cubed)
- 1 teaspoon oil or butter
- A pinch of salt
- ¼ teaspoon red chili powder
Instructions
1. Preparing the Paneer:
- Heat a teaspoon of oil or butter in a pan.
- Add paneer cubes, sprinkle a pinch of salt and red chili powder, and lightly sauté them until golden.
- Remove and set aside.
2. Making the Masala Gravy:
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds and bay leaf.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
- Add pureed tomatoes and cook until oil starts separating from the mixture.
3. Adding Spices:
- Mix in turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Crush and add kasuri methi for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Cooking the Paneer in Masala:
- Add the sautéed paneer cubes and mix gently.
- Pour in fresh cream (optional) and garam masala. Stir well.
- Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the flavors are well absorbed.
5. Serving:
- Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with naan, roti, or jeera rice.
Serving Suggestions:
- For a restaurant-style touch, add a drizzle of fresh cream on top.
- Pair it with pickled onions and green chutney for an extra burst of flavor.
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of green chili and red chili powder.
