Are you craving a flavorful and healthy dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Paneer Green Pepper recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a delightful blend of creamy paneer, vibrant green peppers, and aromatic spices, creating a delicious and satisfying dish. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced cooks searching for quick dinner ideas or simply the best recipes.
Ingredients:
- 250g Paneer, cubed
- 2 large Green bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 1 large Onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 inch Ginger, grated
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp Chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 tsp Garam masala
- 1/4 cup chopped Cilantro
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup Water (optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Begin by washing and chopping all the vegetables. Cube the paneer into bite-sized pieces. Mincing the garlic and grating the ginger beforehand speeds up the cooking process.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
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Bloom the Spices: Add the turmeric powder, coriander powder, chili powder, and garam masala to the pan. Sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to release their aromatic oils. This step enhances the flavor profile of the dish significantly.
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Add the Vegetables and Paneer: Add the sliced green peppers to the pan and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until they start to soften slightly. Now, add the cubed paneer and mix well with the vegetables and spices.
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Simmer and Finish: Add salt to taste and a little water (if needed) to prevent sticking. Cover the pan and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The paneer should be heated through and slightly softened.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with roti, naan, or rice. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with a side of raita for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large quantity, consider cooking in batches to ensure even cooking and browning of the paneer and vegetables.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder according to your preference. For a milder dish, reduce the quantity or omit it entirely.
- Fresh is best: Using fresh ginger and garlic significantly improves the flavor of the dish compared to using powdered versions.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like onions, tomatoes, or peas to enhance the dish's nutritional value and flavor profile.
- Creamy version: Stir in a dollop of cream or yogurt at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fat: 10-15g
This easy paneer green pepper recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and delicious dishes. It's a quick and satisfying dinner solution that's perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy!