Kadai Paneer is a popular Indian dish that tantalizes taste buds with its spicy flavors and tender paneer (Indian cottage cheese) chunks cooked in a rich tomato and onion-based gravy. This vegetarian delight is a perfect blend of aromatic spices and is loved by paneer enthusiasts. In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing Kadai Paneer, provide an estimate of the cooking preparation time, and suggest the ideal serving size.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serving: 4 persons
Ingredients 300 grams paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cubed
2 tablespoons oil
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
2 onions, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, finely chopped
2 bell peppers (capsicum), thinly sliced
2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves, for garnishing
Method - Heat oil in a kadai or deep pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes.
- Add thinly sliced bell peppers (capsicum) and green chilies to the pan. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender.
- Add cubed paneer to the pan and gently mix it with the onion-tomato mixture, ensuring all the paneer pieces are coated well.
- Sprinkle garam masala and kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) over the kadai paneer. Stir gently to combine the flavors.
- Cover the pan and simmer for 5-7 minutes on low heat, allowing the paneer to absorb the spices and flavors.
- Once done, garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot Kadai Paneer with naan, roti, or steamed rice.