Introduction:
Indian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices, and one dish that perfectly embodies this culinary tradition is Karahi Paneer. Karahi Paneer is a delightful vegetarian dish made with succulent paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a spicy and tangy tomato-based gravy. This easy-to-make recipe is a surefire hit among paneer lovers and will leave you craving for more. So, let's dive into the world of Karahi Paneer and learn how to prepare this delectable dish.
Ingredients:
To make Karahi Paneer, you will need the following ingredients:
250 grams paneer, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 tomatoes, pureed
1 teaspoon paprika (adjust to taste)1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon garam masala
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Heat oil or ghee in a deep pan or karahi over medium heat.
Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle, releasing their aromatic fragrance.
Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté them until they caramelize to a rich golden brown color.
This will add a sweet and caramelized flavor to the dish.
Now, add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until the raw smell disappears. The ginger and garlic will infuse the dish with their unique aroma.
Time to add the tomato puree! Pour in the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the mixture. This may take around 5-7 minutes. The tomatoes will give the dish a tangy and vibrant flavor.
Sprinkle the red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt into the pan. Mix well and let the spices cook for another 2 minutes. Adjust the amount of red chili powder based on your preferred level of spiciness.
Add the thinly sliced bell pepper to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until they become slightly tender. The bell peppers will add a crunchy texture and freshness to the dish.
Now, gently add the paneer cubes to the gravy and mix them well with the masala.
Be careful not to disturb the paneer cubes while stirring to avoid breaking them.
Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors of the spices. This will make the paneer soft and flavorful.
Sprinkle garam masala over the paneer and give it a final mix. The garam masala will add a warming and aromatic touch to the dish.
Garnish your Karahi Paneer with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness and color.
Serve this delightful dish piping hot with naan, roti, or rice for a satisfying meal. or rice. The combination of the creamy paneer and the tangy tomato gravy will tantalize your taste buds
Conclusion:
Karahi Paneer is a classic Indian dish that offers a burst of flavors and textures. With its spicy tomato-based gravy and tender paneer cubes, it's a dish that never fails to impress. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply a lover of paneer, this easy-to-make recipe will surely become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, get your karahi or deep pan ready, and embark on a