5 Delicious Paneer Curries to Try Today

Paneer, a fresh cheese common in South Asian cuisine, serves as a delightful protein source that not only complements many spices but also absorbs flavors beautifully. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just beginning to explore Indian cuisine, these five paneer curry recipes will inspire your culinary adventures. Let's dive into some delicious, savory options that you can try today.

1. Paneer Butter Masala

Rich, creamy, and with a subtle sweet-spicy undertone, Paneer Butter Masala is a classic North Indian dish. Here’s how to make it:

• Ingredients:
  • 250g paneer, cubed
  • 2 large tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Butter for cooking
  • Spices like turmeric, red chili, coriander, and garam masala
• Preparation:
  1. Heat butter in a pan, sauté onions until golden.
  2. Add ginger and garlic, cook for a minute.
  3. Pour in the tomato puree and paste, cook until the oil separates.
  4. Add spices, followed by heavy cream. Simmer.
  5. Stir in paneer and finish with kasuri methi.

🌟 Note: Use fresh cream to achieve that rich, smooth consistency.

2. Palak Paneer

If you’re looking for something nutritious yet indulgent, Palak Paneer is a brilliant green dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious.

• Ingredients:
  • 300g spinach, blanched and pureed
  • 200g paneer, cubed
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1-2 green chilies, sliced
  • Cumin seeds, asafoetida, turmeric
  • Garam masala
  • Fresh cream (optional)
• Preparation:
  1. In a pan, heat oil with cumin seeds and asafoetida.
  2. Add ginger-garlic paste, followed by spinach puree.
  3. Season with turmeric, salt, and chili.
  4. Once cooked, mix in paneer and a touch of cream if desired.

3. Kadai Paneer

Kadai Paneer is known for its vibrant spice mix and crunchy capsicum. It’s a dish that promises a burst of flavors.

• Ingredients:
  • 250g paneer, cubed
  • 1 large capsicum, cubed
  • 3 tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp coriander seeds
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • ¹⁄₂ tsp turmeric
  • 1 tbsp kasuri methi
  • Ginger-garlic paste
  • Onion, finely chopped
  • Fresh cream (optional)
• Preparation:
  1. Roast and grind coriander seeds for kadai masala.
  2. In a pan, sauté onions and ginger-garlic paste.
  3. Add tomatoes, cook until oil separates.
  4. Stir in kadai masala, spices, and capsicum.
  5. Finally, add paneer and simmer to blend flavors.

4. Matar Paneer

Combining paneer with green peas, Matar Paneer is a beloved dish for its simplicity and pleasing taste.

• Ingredients:
  • 200g paneer, cubed
  • 1 cup green peas
  • 3 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • Spices like cumin, coriander, red chili, and garam masala
  • Fresh cream (optional)
• Preparation:
  1. Sauté onions in oil until golden, add ginger-garlic paste.
  2. Introduce tomato puree, cook until thickened.
  3. Add spices and green peas, cook until tender.
  4. Gently fold in the paneer and let simmer.

5. Shahi Paneer

Royal, creamy, and fit for royalty, Shahi Paneer is a luxurious curry where paneer bathes in a rich, cashew-tomato cream sauce.

• Ingredients:
  • 200g paneer, cubed
  • 3-4 tomatoes, pureed
  • ¹⁄₂ cup cashew paste
  • 2 onions, boiled and pureed
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • ¹⁄₂ cup heavy cream
  • Whole spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves
• Preparation:
  1. Heat ghee, add whole spices for aroma.
  2. Sauté ginger-garlic paste, followed by onion puree.
  3. Add tomato puree and cook until well combined.
  4. Introduce cashew paste, heavy cream, and spices.
  5. Gently add paneer, simmer, and serve hot.

As you've seen, paneer curries offer a delightful array of flavors and textures, making them a staple in Indian cuisine. Whether you're after something rich and buttery or a healthier alternative, there's a paneer curry for every palate. The key to a great paneer dish lies in the quality of ingredients, the harmony of spices, and the cooking techniques used. By experimenting with these recipes, you'll not only enjoy a culinary journey through India but also enhance your cooking skills.

Can I make paneer at home?

+

Yes, paneer is very straightforward to make at home. Simply curdle milk with lemon juice or vinegar, strain the solids, and press the cheese to remove excess water.

What can I use instead of cream in these recipes?

+

Replace cream with cashew paste or yogurt for a creamier texture while keeping the dish vegan-friendly if desired.

Is paneer good for health?

+

Yes, paneer is rich in protein, calcium, and other nutrients, making it a good choice for vegetarians and lactose-tolerant individuals.

Can I freeze paneer for later use?

+

While you can freeze paneer, its texture might change after thawing. It’s better to store it in brine or water in the refrigerator for short periods.

How do I adjust the spiciness of these curries?

+

Adjust the amount of chili powder, green chilies, or use yogurt or cream to balance the heat.