Kadai Paneer Recipe Like a Dhaba & Restaurant style With Blend of India
Looking for a quick, delicious, and authentic Indian kadai paneer recipe that brings the essence of India to your plate? Our kadai paneer recipe combines the richness of paneer with aromatic spices to create a dish that’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a beginner, this recipe will guide you through every step to achieve that restaurant-style taste right at home.
What is Kadai Paneer?
Kadai Paneer is a popular Indian dish made with paneer cooked in a spicy and tangy tomato-based gravy, flavored with aromatic spices. Named after the traditional Indian wok called a “kadai,” this dish is known for its bold flavors, vibrant color, and unique taste. It’s typically enjoyed with naan, roti, or rice, making it a versatile option for both vegetarians and spice lovers.
Key Ingredients for Authentic Kadai Paneer
To make a truly authentic kadai paneer, it’s all about the right spices and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to do
Main Ingredients
- Paneer – 250g, cut into cubes
- Capsicum (Bell Peppers) – 1, diced
- Onions – 2, diced
- Tomatoes – 2, pureed
Kadai Masala (Spice Mix \ Whole Spice )
- Coriander Seeds – 1 tbsp
- Cumin Seeds – 1 tsp
- Whole Red Chilies – 2-3 (adjust to taste)
- Black Pepper – 1/2 tsp
Other Ingredients
- Ginger-Garlic Paste – 1 tbsp
- Turmeric Powder – 1/2 tsp
- Red Chili Powder – 1 tsp
- Garam Masala – 1/2 tsp
- Salt – to taste
- Fresh Cream or Yogurt (optional) – 1 tbsp for a creamy texture
- Coriander Leaves – for garnish
Step-by-Step Kadai Paneer Recipe
After completing a step, cross out that step.
Step 1: Prepare the Kadai Masala
- [ ] Dry Roast on kadai – Start by dry roasting the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, whole red chilies, and black pepper in a pan over low heat until they are fragrant.
- [ ] grind – Let them cool and grind them into a coarse powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder. This will be your kadai masala.
Step 2: Roasting Vegetables
- [ ] Heat Oil – Add 2 tbsp of oil in kadai
- [ ] fry vegetables – Add the diced onions and capsicum, and cook them until they’re slightly softened but still retain a slight crunch. Remove them from the kadai and set aside.
Step 3: Now Preparing the Gravy
- [ ] Add More Oil -add more oil to the kadai for Gravy.
- [ ] Ginger-Garlic Paste – Add the ginger-garlic paste and fry until it turns golden brown.
- [ ] Tomato Puree – Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the oil begins to separate from the masala.
- [ ] Spice It Up – Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and half of the prepared kadai masala. Stir well.
Step 4: Cook the Paneer
- [ ] Paneer – Cut paneer in cube shape.
- [ ] Add Paneer – Add the paneer cubes in the kadai to fry them and make it silently brown .
- [ ] Add fry vegetables – Return the onions and capsicum to the kadai and mix everything together.
- [ ] Adjust Flavor – Add salt to taste and garam masala for extra flavor.
- [ ] Last not least. – Mixed everything (Paneer, Gravy, fry vegetables and All masalas.).
Step 5: Finishing Touch for Presentation
- [ ] Garnish – Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and sprinkle the remaining kadai masala on top.
- [ ] Creamy Texture (Option) – If you prefer a creamier texture, add fresh cream or yogurt at this stage.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Serve your kadai paneer with naan, roti, or steamed rice, and enjoy a dish that’s bursting with the authentic flavors of India.
Advice for Perfect Kadai Paneer
- Homemade Paneer – For the freshest taste, try making paneer at home.
- Customize the Heat – Adjust the red chilies and chili powder to suit your spice preference.
- Use Fresh Spices – Freshly roasted and ground spices make a huge difference in the aroma and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Kadai Paneer Use our products of Pure & real Indian spice in Future ‘blend of India”
FAQs About Kadai Paneer
Q: Can I make this recipe vegan? A: Absolutely! Substitute paneer with firm tofu and use coconut cream instead of fresh cream for a vegan-friendly version.
Q: What is the difference between kadai paneer and paneer tikka masala? A: While both dishes are popular paneer options, kadai paneer is cooked in a spicier, thicker masala with capsicum, whereas paneer tikka masala has a creamy, yogurt-based gravy.
Q: Can I store leftovers? A: Yes, kadai paneer can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently before serving.
Category | Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
---|---|---|---|
Main | Paneer | 250g | Primary protein |
Vegetables | Capsicum (Bell Peppers) | 1 | Adds crunch and flavor |
Vegetables | Onions | 2 | Base for gravy |
Vegetables | Tomatoes | 2 | Puree for gravy |
Spices | Coriander Seeds | 1 tbsp | Kadai masala |
Spices | Cumin Seeds | 1 tsp | Kadai masala |
Spices | Whole Red Chilies | 2-3 | Kadai masala, heat |
Spices | Black Peppercorns | 1/2 tsp | Kadai masala |
Aromatics | Ginger-Garlic Paste | 1 tbsp | Flavor base |
Spices | Turmeric Powder | 1/2 tsp | Color and flavor |
Spices | Red Chili Powder | 1 tsp | Heat and color |
Spices | Garam Masala | 1/2 tsp | Aromatic finish |
Seasoning | Salt | To taste | Enhances flavors |
Optional | Fresh Cream or Yogurt | 1 tbsp | Creamy texture |
Garnish | Coriander Leaves | As needed | Fresh flavor, garnish |