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🌟 Introduction
Kadhai Paneer is one of the most beloved paneer dishes in Indian cuisine. It’s known for its bold flavors, colorful appearance, and its signature use of a kadhai (wok). This Special Kadhai Paneer recipe brings restaurant-style taste right to your home kitchen using simple ingredients and homemade spice blends.
Whether you're cooking for a family dinner, guests, or just craving something spicy and comforting, this dish is a showstopper!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Course: Main Course, Veg
Cuisine: Indian
Servings: 4
Cost: 100

Ingredients

For the Kadhai Masala (Roast & Grind)

  • 1 tbsp coriander seeds
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 3 –4 dried red chilies
  • 5 –6 black peppercorns
  • 👉 Dry roast all ingredients in a pan until aromatic. Cool and grind coarsely. Set aside.

For the Curry

  • 250 g paneer cubed
  • 1 large onion cubed
  • 1 large capsicum green bell pepper, cubed
  • 2 large tomatoes pureed
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • tsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tbsp oil or ghee
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • ½ tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp kasuri methi dried fenugreek leaves
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Veggies

  • Heat 1 tsp oil in a pan, lightly sauté paneer cubes until golden. Set aside.
  • In the same pan, toss cubed onions and capsicum for 2–3 minutes on high flame (keep them crunchy). Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Base

  • Heat remaining oil in a pan. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
  • Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
  • Add tomato puree and cook until oil separates.
  • Add turmeric, red chili powder, salt, and the prepared kadhai masala. Mix well.

Step 3: Combine Everything

  • Add sautéed paneer, onions, and capsicum to the masala.
  • Mix gently to coat everything with the gravy.
  • Add garam masala, kasuri methi (crushed between palms), and a splash of water if needed.
  • Simmer for 3–4 minutes on low heat.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

  • Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
  • Serve hot with naan, roti, or jeera rice.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Perfect with tandoori roti, butter naan, or paratha
  • Add a side of onion salad and mint raita
  • Great for lunchboxes, dinners, or festive menus
  • 💡 Pro Tips
  • Use fresh, soft paneer for the best texture
  • Don't overcook the capsicum and onion cubes – they should remain slightly crunchy
  • Use homemade kadhai masala for authentic flavor

🧠 Nutritional Highlights

    ✅ Rich in protein and calcium from paneer

      ✅ Bold flavors without cream or heavy butter

        ✅ Vegetarian, gluten-free, and comforting