Teresa's Recipes
Authentic Kadai Paneer
Kadai Paneer is a vibrant and robust Indian dish that's teeming with flavor. This traditional recipe hails from the northern regions of India, where it is a beloved staple. It features delectably soft paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and crunchy bell peppers, all enveloped in a rich and aromatic blend of spices. The result is a feast for the senses, with a symphony of flavors and textures that perfectly represents the culinary richness of Indian cuisine.
Ingredients
- to taste Salt
- 2 tablespoons Oil
- a handful, chopped Fresh coriander leaves
- 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
- 2 teaspoons Coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon Red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 2 teaspoons Kadai masala
- 1, slit Green chili
- 4 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1 inch piece, grated Ginger
- 2, pureed Tomato
- 2, chopped Onion
- 1, diced Capsicum (bell pepper)
- 200 grams, cubed Paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 15g
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Sugar: 5g
Instructions
- Heat oil in a kadai (Indian wok) or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
- Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle until they release their aroma.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Mix in the grated ginger, minced garlic, and slit green chili. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
- Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and kadai masala. Stir well to combine.
- Add the diced bell peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly tender but still retain some crunch.
- Incorporate the cubed paneer into the mixture. Gently stir to ensure every piece is well-coated with the masala.
- Cover the kadai and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Season with salt to taste and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with a side of naan or roti for a complete and flavorful meal.
Tips
- For a creamier version, you can add a splash of cream towards the end of cooking.
- If you can't find paneer, you can substitute it with tofu for a vegan option.
- You can make your own kadai masala at home by dry roasting and grinding coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, dried red chilies, and fennel seeds.