Are you craving a flavorful, vegetarian Indian dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! Paneer Do Pyaza, meaning "paneer with two onions," is a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe delivers a rich, creamy sauce complemented by the sweetness of caramelized onions, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Let's dive into this simple yet incredibly flavorful dish!
Ingredients:
- 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cubed
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1/4 tsp cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a vegan option)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Heat the oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized. This process takes about 15-20 minutes, and patience is key for that deep onion flavor.
Step 2: Add the Spices
Once the onions are caramelized, add the ginger-garlic paste and green chili (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Now, add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and cumin powder. Stir well and cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromas. This step builds the foundation of the delicious flavors in your Paneer Do Pyaza.
Step 3: Incorporate the Paneer
Add the cubed paneer to the pan and gently mix it with the spiced onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the paneer is heated through and coated in the flavorful sauce. Avoid overcooking the paneer, as it can become tough.
Step 4: Finish and Garnish
Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and salt to taste. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Paneer Do Pyaza:
- Caramelizing the onions: Low and slow is the key here. Don't rush the process; allow the onions to cook gently until deeply golden brown for the best flavor.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of onions, it's best to cook them in batches to ensure even caramelization.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to your preferred spice level.
- Fresh is best: Using fresh ginger and garlic will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or peas for a more substantial and colorful meal.
- Creamy Tomato Version: Add a can of crushed tomatoes along with the spices for a richer, tomato-based sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few finely chopped green chilies for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Around 20-25g
- Fat: Around 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Around 15-20g
This easy Paneer Do Pyaza recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a healthy, delicious, and satisfying vegetarian meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!