Kadai Paneer Recipe

Kadai Paneer is a top rated Indian vegetarian dish. Its spicy, flavorsome taste together with the thick gravy makes this dish famous among many people which is why it is served at family gatherings, restaurants, and special occasions. If you are looking to satisfy your taste buds with a dish that is spicy and full of flavor, Kadai Paneer is an ideal option. In this blog, we will guide you step-by-step on how bre prepare Kadai Paneer with some tips and tricks to make it truly restaurant-style.  

What is Kadai Paneer?  

Kadai Paneer is a curry dish prepared with vegetarian ingredients with the star component being paneer (cottage cheese), prepared in a spicy gravy with onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and other Indian spices. The term “Kadai” describes the Indian wok that is used for cooking this dish, assisting in flavor enhancement. This dish strikes the perfect balance by putting together spices and the richness of paneer, and is definitely for people who love strong flavors.
Here is an easy and delicious Kadai Paneer recipe that you can prepare at home.

How to make kadai paneer/Kadai Paneer ki recipe?

Kadai Paneer is a flavorful Indian dish made with paneer, bell peppers, onions, and aromatic spices. Cook paneer in a spicy tomato-based gravy with roasted kadai masala. Serve hot with naan or roti for a delicious, restaurant-style meal at home. 

Ingredients for Making Kadai Paneer :

• Paneer – 250 grams (cut into cubes)
• Tomatoes – 2 medium (grated or pureed)
• Onion – 1 large (finely chopped)
• Green Chilies – 2 (slit)
• Bell Pepper (Shimla Mirch) – 1 (cut into chunks)
• Ginger-garlic paste – 1 tablespoon
• Kadai Paneer masala – 1 tablespoon (can be store-bought or homemade)
• Coriander powder – 1 teaspoon
• Cumin seeds – 1/2 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder – 1/4 teaspoon
• Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon
• Garam masala – 1/2 teaspoon
• Fresh cilantro (coriander leaves) – for garnish
• Salt – to taste
• Oil – 2 tablespoons

Cooking Process of Kadai Paneer:

1. Prepare Paneer: When beginning the recipe, it is important to make sure that the Paneer is first sliced into small cubes. If you want stronger texture, you can fry the Paneer cubes in the pan until it is lightly golden brown. Frying adds additional flavor and crispiness. 
2. Make Gravy: Oil should now be heated in a wok or kadhai. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Meanwhile, for your next step, take the onion and finely chop them. Next add them into the heated oil and sauté until they turn golden brown. 
3. Add Ginger-Garlic Paste: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears. And add in the diced or pureed tomatoes to the pan. Cook until the oil starts to separates from the tomato mixture.
4. Add Spices: Using the previously prepared mixture, add in turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and Kadai Paneer masala. Make sure to stir lavender and set the spices for a minute before turning off the stove. Saute for a couple of minutes. 
5. Add Bell Peppers and Paneer: Capsule bell pepper should be chopped and then added to the Kadai. Stir and fry for 2-3 minutes. Next add fried paneer cubes to the gravy and gently mix to ensure that the gravy evenly coats the paneer. 
6. Simmer: If the gravy is too thick, a small amount of water should be added. On low to medium heat cover the pan and allow it to simmer for 5 to 7 minutes.

   7. Garnish: Finally, add the garam masala and the fresh cilantro (coriander leaves) on top of the dish before finishing  the preparation. Your Kadai Paneer is ready to serve!