Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious vegetarian meal? Look no further! This Shimla Mirch And Paneer recipe is your answer. This vibrant dish, bursting with the sweet heat of bell peppers and the creamy richness of paneer, is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's easy enough for beginner cooks, yet flavorful enough to impress even the most seasoned palates. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game with this fantastic recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 large green bell peppers (Shimla Mirch), deseeded and sliced
- 250g paneer, cubed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, 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 cumin powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 cup water or vegetable broth
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat oil or ghee in a pan or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your dish.
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Bloom the Spices: Add the ginger and green chilies, sauté for another minute until fragrant. Now, add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to prevent burning. This step releases the wonderful aromas of the spices.
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Add the Vegetables: Add the sliced bell peppers and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until slightly softened. Don't overcook the peppers, as you want to retain some crispness.
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Incorporate the Tomatoes and Paneer: Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the tomatoes soften. Gently stir in the paneer cubes.
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Simmer and Finish: Pour in the water or vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, and cover the pan. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The paneer should be heated through and the sauce slightly thickened.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with roti, naan, or rice. The vibrant green color of the peppers and the fresh cilantro make this dish visually appealing as well as delicious.
Cooking Tips for the Best Shimla Mirch Paneer:
- For a richer flavor, use ghee instead of oil.
- Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your spice preference.
- Don't overcook the paneer, as it can become rubbery.
- For a creamier sauce, add a splash of cream or yogurt at the end.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or potatoes.
- Make it spicy: Increase the amount of green chilies or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Creamy version: Stir in a dollop of cream or yogurt at the end for extra richness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein from the paneer and vitamins from the bell peppers. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the ingredients used and serving size.
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and healthy meal without sacrificing flavor. Try it today and experience the magic of this simple yet satisfying dish! Enjoy your homemade culinary creation!