Introduction
Kadai Paneer Recipe: If you’re on the hunt for an exquisite Indian dish that’s bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, look no further than this Kadai Paneer recipe. A staple in North Indian cuisine, Kadai Paneer delights the palate with its aromatic spices, tender paneer cheese, and vibrant bell peppers cooked to perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress both your taste buds and your guests.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for anyone craving authentic Indian flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student on a budget, or a home cook looking to add some variety to your meals, Kadai Paneer fits the bill. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, making it an excellent option for Meatless Mondays or for those following a plant-based diet.
Why it’s Great
What makes Kadai Paneer truly exceptional is its balance of bold spices and creamy paneer, complemented by the sweetness of bell peppers and the tanginess of tomatoes. It’s a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious, making it ideal for both weekday dinners and special occasions. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients and simple preparation steps, you can whip up this restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients For Kadai Paneer Recipe
- 250g paneer, cubed
- 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
- 2 green bell peppers, cut into chunks
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Directions For Kadai Paneer Recipe
- Heat oil in a kadai or large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies. Cook for a minute until fragrant.
- Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the masala.
- Toss in coriander powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Add cubed paneer and bell peppers to the kadai. Gently stir to coat them with the masala.
- Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle garam masala and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Kadai Paneer Recipe
Ingredients
- 250 Gm Paneer Cubed
- 2 Medium-sized onions Finely chopped
- 2 Green bell peppers Cut into chunks
- 2 Tomatoes Pureed
- 2 Green chilies Slit
- 1 Tablespoon Ginger-garlic paste
- 1 Teaspoon Cumin seeds
- 1 Teaspoon Coriander powder
- 1 Teaspoon Red chili powder
- 1/2 Teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 1 Teaspoon Garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 Tablespoons Oil
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a kadai or large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies. Cook for a minute until fragrant.
- Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the masala.
- Toss in coriander powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Add cubed paneer and bell peppers to the kadai. Gently stir to coat them with the masala.
- Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle garam masala and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Notes
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To prepare this delicious Kadai Paneer recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Kadai or large pan
- Chopping board and knife
- Blender or food processor
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Serving dish
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stovetop until heated through. Kadai Paneer tastes just as delicious the next day, making it a great option for meal prep.
Food and Drink Pairings
Pair your Kadai Paneer with fluffy basmati rice for a comforting meal, or serve it alongside warm, buttery naan bread for an indulgent experience. For drinks, consider pairing this flavorful dish with a refreshing mango lassi or a crisp Indian lager to balance out the spices.
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FAQ
1. Can I use store-bought paneer instead of homemade in the Kadai Paneer Recipe?
Absolutely! While homemade paneer is always a treat, store-bought paneer works just as well in this Kadai Paneer Recipe. Just be sure to cut it into cubes before adding it to the kadai.
2. Can I add other vegetables to the Kadai Paneer Recipe?
Certainly! Feel free to customize the Kadai Paneer Recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as mushrooms, peas, or even broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure all the vegetables are cooked to perfection.
3. Is the Kadai Paneer Recipe spicy?
The level of spiciness in the Kadai Paneer Recipe can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder dish, simply reduce the amount of red chili powder or omit the green chilies altogether.
4. How long can I store leftovers of the Kadai Paneer Recipe?
If you have any leftovers of the Kadai Paneer Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stovetop until heated through.
5. Can I double the ingredients in the Kadai Paneer Recipe for a larger batch?
Absolutely! Feel free to double or even triple the ingredients in the Kadai Paneer Recipe to accommodate a larger group. Just be sure to use a larger kadai or pan to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kadai Paneer is a delightful dish that’s both versatile and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to embark on a flavorful journey through the vibrant flavors of North Indian cuisine. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes and cooking tips!