Kadai Paneer Recipe: A Flavorful and Restaurant-Style Delight

Kadai Paneer is one of the most beloved vegetarian dishes in Indian cuisine. This rich, flavorful curry combines creamy paneer with a medley of aromatic spices and vegetables, all enveloped in a tantalizing tomato-based gravy. Whether you’re serving it at a festive dinner, a family meal, or simply indulging in a homemade feast, this recipe promises to bring the flavors of an Indian restaurant straight to your plate.

If you’ve ever dined at an Indian restaurant and fallen in love with the bold flavors of Kadai Paneer, you’ll be thrilled to know that making it at home is easier than you think. With a few simple ingredients, fresh spices, and a bit of patience, you can prepare this restaurant-style Kadai Paneer right in your own kitchen!

In this recipe, we will guide you through the process of preparing Kadai Paneer from scratch, including a homemade Kadai masala, detailed step-by-step instructions, variations, and more.

What is Kadai Paneer?

Kadai Paneer is a popular North Indian dish that features paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a spicy and tangy gravy made from tomatoes, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices. The dish gets its name from the cooking utensil traditionally used for preparing it – the kadai, which is a deep, circular Indian wok. The name “Kadai Paneer” refers to both the cooking method and the vibrant flavors of the dish.

The key to making an authentic Kadai Paneer is in the freshly ground Kadai Masala. This special spice mix, when combined with sautéed vegetables, paneer, and a tomato-based gravy, creates a flavorful curry that pairs wonderfully with naan, roti, or jeera rice.

Origin of Kadai Paneer

The origins of Kadai Paneer can be traced back to North India, specifically the Punjabi region, which is known for its rich and flavorful vegetarian curries. Paneer-based dishes have long been a staple of North Indian cuisine, often prepared during special occasions and festivals. While Kadai Paneer has become famous across the globe, its roots are deeply embedded in Indian culinary traditions, where it is prepared in various regional styles.

The dish’s distinctive taste comes from the freshly ground spice mix, which adds a unique depth of flavor to the curry. Over time, Kadai Paneer has evolved, and now it is enjoyed in homes, restaurants, and eateries worldwide, becoming a go-to dish for vegetarians and spice lovers alike.

Ingredients for Kadai Paneer

For the Kadai Masala (Freshly Ground Spice Mix):

• 2 tbsp coriander seeds
• 2 tsp cumin seeds
• 2 tsp fennel seeds
• 3–4 dried red chilies
• 2 tsp black peppercorns

For the Gravy:

• 2 tbsp oil + 2 tsp ghee
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 3 medium tomatoes, chopped
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tbsp Kadai masala (from above)
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ cup water
• 2 tbsp cream (optional for richness)
• 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• 1 inch ginger, julienned

Lastly for the Stir-Fry:

• 1 medium onion, cubed
• 1 medium capsicum (bell pepper), cubed
• 1 medium tomato, cubed
• 250g paneer, cubed
• 1 tsp garam masala

Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method

Step 1: Make the Kadai Masala

To begin, we’ll make the Kadai Masala from scratch. This homemade spice mix is what sets the dish apart.

1. Dry roast the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, dried red chilies, and black peppercorns in a pan over medium heat.
2. Stir them occasionally until they release a fragrant aroma, and the seeds are lightly toasted.
3. Cool the roasted spices and grind them to a coarse powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Set this aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Gravy Base

Now, it’s time to make the flavorful base for the Kadai Paneer.

1. Heat 2 tbsp oil and 2 tsp ghee in a kadai or a large, deep pan.
2. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter in the hot oil.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1–2 minutes, allowing them to release their aromatic fragrance.
4. Add the chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown.
5. Now, stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and become mushy.
6. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and Kadai masala. Stir well and cook until the oil separates from the masala.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables & Paneer

While the gravy is cooking, prepare the stir-fry.

1. Heat some oil in a separate pan and add the cubed onion, capsicum, and tomato. Stir-fry them on high flame for 2–3 minutes until they are slightly charred but still crunchy.
2. Add the cubed paneer and garam masala, and continue stir-frying for another 2 minutes. The paneer should develop a light golden-brown crust.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Now, let’s bring everything together!

1. Add the stir-fried vegetables and paneer to the gravy base.
2. Pour in ½ cup water and stir everything to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. If you want a richer curry, add 2 tbsp cream at this point and stir gently.
4. Add kasuri methi, chopped coriander leaves, and julienned ginger. Mix everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Garnish with extra coriander leaves.

Step 5: Serve

Your Kadai Paneer is ready! Serve this vibrant dish hot with naan, roti, or jeera rice for a complete meal.

Variations of Kadai Paneer

While the traditional Kadai Paneer is delicious on its own, there are several variations that you can try to suit your preferences or dietary requirements.

1. Kadai Paneer with Mushrooms – For a twist, you can add mushrooms to the stir-fry along with the paneer and vegetables. The earthy flavor of mushrooms complements the spicy curry beautifully.
2. Vegan Kadai Paneer – Substitute the paneer with tofu or a vegan cheese alternative to make this dish vegan-friendly.
3. Kadai Paneer with Nuts – Add cashews or almonds for a creamy texture and a nutty flavor.
4. Spicy Kadai Paneer – Increase the amount of red chili powder and green chilies to make the dish spicier.

FAQs About Kadai Paneer Recipe

1. Can I make Kadai Paneer in advance?

Yes! Kadai Paneer tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat before serving.

2. Can I freeze Kadai Paneer?

You can freeze Kadai Paneer for up to a month. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat it gently in a pan.

3. What can I serve with Kadai Paneer?

Kadai Paneer pairs beautifully with naan, roti, jeera rice, or pilaf. It’s the perfect complement to any Indian flatbread or rice dish.

4. Is Kadai Paneer spicy?

While Kadai Paneer is flavorful, it is not overwhelmingly spicy. However, you can adjust the spice levels by adding more or less chili powder and fresh green chilies.

5. Can I use store-bought Kadai Masala?

For the best results, homemade Kadai masala is recommended, but if you’re in a rush, you can use store-bought masala. Just ensure you’re using a good quality blend.

Conclusion: Kadai Paneer Recipe

Kadai Paneer is an incredibly rich and aromatic dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With its freshly ground spice mix, creamy paneer, and deliciously tangy gravy, it brings together the best of Indian flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this dish is perfect for all occasions.

By following this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll have a restaurant-style Kadai Paneer that’s bursting with authentic flavors. Don’t forget to adjust the spice levels to your liking and explore the different variations to make it your own. Happy cooking!

Kadai Paneer Recipe: A Flavorful and Restaurant-Style Delight

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• Author: David Andersson
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Kadai Paneer is a popular North Indian dish that features paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a spicy and tangy gravy made from tomatoes, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices. The dish gets its name from the cooking utensil traditionally used for preparing it – the kadai, which is a deep, circular Indian wok. The name “Kadai Paneer” refers to both the cooking method and the vibrant flavors of the dish.

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Ingredients

For the Kadai Masala (Freshly Ground Spice Mix):

• 2 tbsp coriander seeds

• 2 tsp cumin seeds

• 2 tsp fennel seeds

• 3–4 dried red chilies

• 2 tsp black peppercorns

For the Gravy:

• 2 tbsp oil + 2 tsp ghee

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 5 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 inch ginger, grated

• 2 medium onions, finely chopped

• 3 medium tomatoes, chopped

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp red chili powder

• 1 tbsp Kadai masala (from above)

• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ cup water

• 2 tbsp cream (optional for richness)

• 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed

• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves

• 1 inch ginger, julienned

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 medium onion, cubed

• 1 medium capsicum (bell pepper), cubed

• 1 medium tomato, cubed

• 250g paneer, cubed

• 1 tsp garam masala

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Instructions

• Make Kadai Masala Dry roast coriander, cumin, fennel, red chilies, and pepper until aromatic. Cool and grind to a coarse powder.
• Prepare the Gravy Base
  • Heat oil and ghee in a kadai. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
  • Add garlic and ginger, sauté until fragrant.
  • Add chopped onions and cook until golden.
  • Stir in tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy.
  • Add turmeric, chili powder, kadai masala, and salt. Cook until oil separates.
• Stir-Fry Veggies & Paneer
  • In a separate pan, heat oil and stir-fry onion, capsicum, tomato, and paneer with garam masala on high flame until slightly charred but still crunchy.
• Combine & Simmer
  • Add stir-fried veggies and paneer to the gravy.
  • Pour in water, mix well, and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  • Add cream, kasuri methi, coriander leaves, and ginger juliennes. Mix gently.
• Serve Hot Garnish with extra coriander and serve with naan, roti, or rice.

Notes

For an extra burst of flavor, serve Kadai Paneer with freshly made garlic naan or jeera rice, and garnish with a sprinkle of kasuri methi for that authentic restaurant-style taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: Moderate

Keywords: Kadai Paneer, Restaurant-style Kadai Paneer, Indian Paneer Kadai