Authentic Kadai Paneer

Ingredients

• Salt (to taste)
• Oil (2 tablespoons)
• Fresh coriander leaves (a handful, chopped)
• Cumin seeds (1 teaspoon)
• Coriander powder (2 teaspoons)
• Red chili powder (1 teaspoon)
• Turmeric powder (1/2 teaspoon)
• Kadai masala (2 teaspoons)
• Green chili (1, slit)
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
• Ginger (1 inch piece, grated)
• Tomato (2, pureed)
• Onion (2, chopped)
• Capsicum (bell pepper) (1, diced)
• Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) (200 grams, cubed)

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a kadai (Indian wok) or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
2. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle until they release their aroma.
3. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
4. Mix in the grated ginger, minced garlic, and slit green chili. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
6. Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and kadai masala. Stir well to combine.
7. Add the diced bell peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly tender but still retain some crunch.
8. Incorporate the cubed paneer into the mixture. Gently stir to ensure every piece is well-coated with the masala.
9. Cover the kadai and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
10. Season with salt to taste and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
11. Serve hot with a side of naan or roti for a complete and flavorful meal.