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Kadai Paneer Recipe - Spiced North Indian Cottage Cheese Delight

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    ChefPandas
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🍲 About This Dish

Kadai Paneer is a popular North Indian dish that originated in the state of Punjab. Known for its rich and robust flavors, this dish showcases the perfect balance of spices and textures that is characteristic of North Indian cuisine. Traditionally cooked in a 'kadai,' a type of Indian wok, this dish brings together the creaminess of paneer (cottage cheese) with a medley of aromatic spices.

🌶️ Ingredients Overview

  • Paneer (Cottage Cheese)
  • Bell Peppers (Capsicum)
  • Onions (Pyaz)
  • Tomatoes (Tamatar)
  • Ginger (Adrak)
  • Garlic (Lehsun)
  • Green Chilies (Hari Mirch)
  • Fresh Coriander (Dhania)
  • Garam Masala
  • Turmeric Powder (Haldi)
  • Coriander Powder (Dhania Powder)
  • Cumin Seeds (Jeera)
  • Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves)

✨ What Makes It Special

Kadai Paneer can vary in taste and preparation across different regions of India. In North India, the dish is often cooked with a hearty dose of garam masala, giving it a warm and aromatic flavor profile. In some parts of South India, a touch of coconut milk may be added to balance the heat of the spices.

📝 Ingredients

  • 250g Paneer, cubed
  • 1 large Onion, sliced
  • 1 Bell Pepper, sliced
  • 2 Tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 inch Ginger, minced
  • 3-4 Garlic Cloves, minced
  • 2 Green Chilies, slit
  • 2 tbsp Oil
  • 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
  • 1 tsp Turmeric Powder
  • 1 tbsp Coriander Powder
  • 1 tsp Garam Masala
  • 1 tbsp Kasuri Methi
  • Fresh Coriander for garnish
  • Salt to taste

🥄 Spice Blend (Masala)

To make the Kadai Masala:

  • 1 tbsp Coriander Seeds
  • 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
  • 1-2 Dry Red Chilies
  • 4-5 Black Peppercorns
  • 3-4 Green Cardamom Pods
  • 1 inch Cinnamon Stick

Dry roast these spices and grind them to a fine powder for the authentic Kadai Paneer flavor.

👨‍🍳 Preparation Method

  1. Heat oil in a kadai or wok. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
  2. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add ginger, garlic, and green chilies. Sauté for a minute.
  4. Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, and the prepared Kadai Masala. Cook for a minute.
  5. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
  6. Add sliced bell peppers and cook for a few minutes.
  7. Add cubed paneer, salt, and garam masala. Mix gently to coat the paneer with the masala.
  8. Crush kasuri methi between your palms and sprinkle over the dish.
  9. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

⏰ Timing Guide

Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Kadai Paneer pairs perfectly with hot rotis, naan, or steamed rice. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot for the best experience.

💭 Chef's Notes

  • To enhance the flavors, you can add a splash of cream or yogurt towards the end of cooking.
  • Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by controlling the amount of green chilies and red chili powder.
  • For a smoky flavor, you can roast the bell peppers before adding them to the dish.

📦 Storage

Kadai Paneer can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving to retain the flavors.

Enjoy the aromatic and flavorful journey of preparing and savoring this classic North Indian dish that celebrates the essence of Indian spices and textures!