Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and quick dinner? Look no further! This Paneer Capsicum recipe is your answer. It's a vibrant, flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal. Packed with protein from paneer (Indian cheese) and the sweetness of bell peppers, this recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this simple yet satisfying homemade dish!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Items
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
- 200g Paneer, cubed
- 1 large Onion, finely chopped
- 2 Capsicums (Bell Peppers), any color, sliced
- 1 Tomato, finely chopped
- 1 inch Ginger, finely grated
- 2-3 Green Chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Red Chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- ½ tsp Garam Masala
- ½ tsp Salt (or to taste)
- 2 tbsp Oil or Ghee
- Fresh Coriander leaves, for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Simple Guide
This Paneer Capsicum recipe is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect dish:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil or ghee in a pan or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add the grated ginger and green chilies, sauté for another minute until fragrant.
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Add Spices: Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala to the pan. Sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant and slightly browned. Be careful not to burn them.
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Introduce Vegetables: Add the sliced capsicums and chopped tomatoes to the pan. Stir well and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the capsicums are slightly softened but still retain their shape.
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Paneer Time: Add the cubed paneer to the pan. Gently mix it with the vegetables and spices. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the paneer to heat through and absorb the flavors. Avoid overcooking the paneer, as it can become tough.
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Season and Serve: Add salt to taste and stir well. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with roti, naan, rice, or even as a side dish.
Cooking Tips for Paneer Capsicum Perfection
- Paneer Prep: For best results, use fresh paneer. If using store-bought paneer, gently pat it dry with a paper towel before cubing to prevent excess moisture.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder according to your spice preference. Start with less and add more gradually if needed.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked paneer can become dry and rubbery. Cook it just until it's heated through.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or potatoes to enhance the dish.
Variations: Explore Different Flavors
- Creamy Capsicum Paneer: Stir in a dollop of cream or yogurt at the end for a richer, creamier flavor.
- Spicy Paneer Capsicum: Add a pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for an extra layer of flavor and aroma.
- Lemon Twist: Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving for a zesty touch.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Around 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Around 15-20g
- Fat: Around 10-15g
Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade Paneer Capsicum! This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed it!