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Kadhai Paneer

Kadhai Paneer is a North Indian vegetarian dish featuring paneer cubes cooked in a spiced tomato and onion gravy. The dish is prepared using sautéing, simmering, and frying techniques, resulting in a creamy, flavorful curry with crispy-edged paneer pieces. It has a vibrant orange-red appearance with a thick, aromatic sauce that coats the paneer generously.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: North Indian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 250 g paneer cubes
  • 2 medium onions finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes finely chopped or coarsely crushed (not fully smooth puree)
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 medium green capsicum sliced
  • 1½ teaspoons coarsely crushed coriander seeds
  • ½ –1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder adjust to taste
  • 2½ –3 tablespoons oil vegetable or mustard oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Equipment

  • Kadhai or heavy pan
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Spatula or cooking spoon
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat oil in a kadhai or pan over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add sliced capsicum after masala cooks and sauté for 2–3 minutes to retain crunch.
  4. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant.
  5. Add tomato puree, turmeric, chili powder, and salt.
  6. Cook masala until oil begins to separate.
  7. Add paneer cubes and sprinkle garam masala.
  8. Mix gently and cook paneer for 2–3 minutes on low heat just to absorb flavors.
  9. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot.

Notes

Ensure paneer is fried to a golden color for added texture. Adjust spice levels according to taste. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of cream or butter at the end.