Are you craving a flavorful vegetarian dish that's both quick to make and incredibly satisfying? Then look no further! This Without Tomato Paneer recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's a delicious twist on the classic paneer curry, offering a unique taste profile that will impress even the most discerning palates. This easy recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for a special occasion. Let's dive into this healthy meal and discover how to create this culinary masterpiece!
Ingredients: You'll need these simple ingredients to make this easy recipe.
- 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cubed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (coriander leaves)
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup water or vegetable broth
Step-by-Step Instructions: A quick guide to creating this delicious dish.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the oil or ghee in a pan or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. This step is crucial for building flavor.
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Add the Spices: Stir in the ginger, garlic, and green chilies. Sauté for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the ginger and garlic.
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Bloom the Spices: Add the garam masala, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder (if using). Sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to release their aromatic oils. This step is key to unlocking the full depth of flavor in your dish.
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Incorporate the Paneer: Gently add the paneer cubes to the pan. Stir carefully to coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
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Simmer and Finish: Pour in the water or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened and the paneer is heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot with roti, naan, rice, or your favorite side dish.
Cooking Tips for Best Results: Enhance your cooking skills with these helpful tips.
- For a richer flavor, use ghee instead of oil.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when sautéing the onions and spices. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your spice preference.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can stir in a tablespoon of cream or yogurt at the end.
Variations: Explore different flavor profiles with these exciting variations.
- Add vegetables: Enhance this dish by adding vegetables like peas, potatoes, or cauliflower. Add them along with the paneer.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Creamy version: Stir in a dollop of cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fat: 15-20g
This Without Tomato Paneer recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and healthy meal. It's a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and best recipes, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. Enjoy!