Are you craving a flavorful, quick, and easy vegetarian dinner? Look no further! This Masaledar Paneer Tikhat recipe, a spicy paneer dish bursting with aromatic spices, is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a delicious dish that's both satisfying and healthy. This recipe is ideal for anyone looking for easy recipes or quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cubed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- ¼ tsp asafoetida (hing)
- 2 tbsp oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Paneer
Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a pan. Gently fry the paneer cubes until lightly browned. Set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
In the same pan, heat the remaining oil. Add the asafoetida and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant. Add the onions and sauté until golden brown. Now add the ginger and garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Building the Flavor
Add the green chilies, tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
Step 4: Combining and Simmering
Stir in the garam masala and salt. Add the fried paneer cubes and mix well. Add a splash of water (about 2-3 tablespoons), cover the pan, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serving and Enjoying
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with roti, naan, or rice. This delicious dish is perfect for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, marinate the paneer cubes in a little yogurt and turmeric for 30 minutes before frying.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your spice preference.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the sautéed tomatoes and spices before adding the paneer.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or potatoes for a more substantial dish.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of cream or yogurt at the end.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Masaledar Paneer Tikhat recipe is a testament to the deliciousness and simplicity of Indian cuisine. It's a perfect example of how healthy meals can also be incredibly tasty and easy to prepare, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of best recipes. Enjoy!