Welcome to our user-friendly instructional manual for preparing a delectable homemade Paneer Masala Recipe. By adhering to this manual, there will be no necessity to patronize dining establishments in the future. Abide by these uncomplicated procedures to concoct a palatable dish that is sure to captivate your loved ones and acquaintances.
1 sizable onion or 2 moderate onions
2 sizable tomatoes
1 cup of fresh or frozen green peas
1 green pepper
4 cups of water
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
2 teaspoons clarified butter (or butter/oil)
200-250 grams paneer (cottage cheese)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
2 teaspoons coriander powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Cut the Vegetables: Finely dice the onions and tomatoes.
Prepare the Vegetables: In a cooking vessel, combine the diced onions, tomatoes, peas, and green pepper. Pour in 4 cups of water and bring to a simmer.
Flavor the Vegetables: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Simmer until the vegetables are tender (approximately 3-4 minutes).
Remove Water from Vegetables: Filter the liquid from the cooked vegetables and keep both separately. Let the vegetables cool down.
Step 2: Make the Vegetable Paste
Remove the skin of the Tomatoes: After they have cooled down, remove the skin of the tomatoes.
Puree the Vegetables: In a food processor, puree the cooked vegetables (excluding peas) into a homogeneous mixture. Refrain from adding any water while pureeing.
Step 3: Prepare the Paneer
Fry the Paneer: In a kadhai, heat 2 teaspoons of ghee. Lightly fry the paneer cubes until golden brown (about 1-2 minutes).
Soak the Paneer: Place the fried paneer in room temperature water to keep it soft.
Step 4: Cook the Masala
Fry Onions: In the same kadhai, add a little more ghee if needed. Add the chopped onion rings and cook until soft (about 1-2 minutes).
Add Spices: Add cumin seeds and cook until they start to splutter. Then, add the vegetable paste.
Spice It Up: Add chili powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, turmeric powder, and coriander powder. Mix well and cook until the masala releases oil and the spices are well-cooked.
Step 5: Combine and Cook
Add Peas and Water: Add the boiled peas and some of the reserved water. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Add Paneer: Gently add the soaked paneer cubes to the gravy. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors.
Final Touch: Sprinkle garam masala and mix well. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Presentation: Transfer the Paneer Masala to a serving dish. Grate some fresh paneer on top for a beautiful presentation.
Serving Suggestions: Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Tips for the Perfect Paneer Masala Recipe
Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding more or less of the reserved vegetable water.
Freshness: Fresh peas and paneer will enhance the taste, but frozen options work well too.
Flavor: Let the masala cook until it releases oil to ensure a rich, well-cooked flavor.
Comparison Table: Fresh vs. Frozen Peas
| Feature | Fresh Peas | Frozen Peas |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Rich and Sweet | Slightly Less Sweet |
| Texture | Crisp and Firm | Softer |
| Availability | Seasonal | Year-round |
| Preparation | Requires Shelling | Ready to Use |
Conclusion
This Paneer Masala recipe is a perfect balance of spices and flavors. It’s simple to make and tastes just like restaurant-style Paneer Masala. With fresh ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a delicious meal that will delight everyone at your table. Try it today and enjoy the compliments!
FAQs
Q: What ingredients are needed for Paneer Masala?
A: Onions, tomatoes, green peas, green chili, paneer, ghee, cumin, and various spices.
Q: Can I use frozen peas?
A: Yes, both fresh and frozen peas work well.
Q: How do I keep paneer soft?
A: Soak fried paneer in room temperature water.
Q: What can I serve with Paneer Masala?
A: Serve with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Q: How long does it take to cook?
A: The recipe takes about 30-40 minutes.
Meet Misha Mehboob, a passionate food enthusiast and computer science student from Sargodha University. Misha’s culinary journey is fueled by her love for exploring new flavors and experimenting in the kitchen.
At CrispyEatHub, Misha shares her creative recipes and practical cooking tips to inspire fellow food lovers on their culinary adventures. From quick weeknight dinners to indulgent desserts, there’s something delicious for every palate.
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