Paneer Curry Recipe – Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

For Curry:

• Paneer – 200 to 250 grams (cut into cubes)

• Onions – 2 medium (finely chopped)

• Tomatoes – 2 large (pureed or finely chopped)

• Ginger-Garlic Paste – 1 tablespoon

• Green Chilies – 1 to 2 (optional, slit or chopped)

• Oil or Ghee – 2 to 3 tablespoons

• Cumin Seeds – 1 teaspoon

• Bay Leaf – 1 to 2

• Turmeric Powder – 1/2 teaspoon

• Red Chili Powder – 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)

• Coriander Powder – 1 teaspoon

• Garam Masala – 1/2 teaspoon

• Fresh Cream – 2 tablespoons (optional)

• Salt – as per taste

• Water – 1/2 cup (adjust for gravy)

• Fresh Coriander Leaves – for garnish

How to Make Paneer Curry (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Heat the Oil

• Take a pan or kadhai.

• Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of oil or ghee and heat it on medium flame.

Step 2: Add Whole Spices

• Once the oil is hot, add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and 1–2 bay leaves.

• Let them splutter for a few seconds.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

• Add 2 finely chopped onions.

• Cook until the onions turn golden brown. Stir occasionally so they don't burn.

Step 4: Add Ginger-Garlic Paste

• Add 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste.

• Cook for 1–2 minutes until the raw smell goes away.

Step 5: Add Tomato Puree

• Add 2 large pureed or finely chopped tomatoes.

• Mix well and cook the mixture until the oil separates from the sides. This may take 5–6 minutes.

Step 6: Add Spices

• Now add:

  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder

  • Salt to taste

• Mix everything well and cook for 1–2 minutes.

Step 7: Add Paneer Cubes

• Gently add 200–250 grams of paneer cubes.

• Mix carefully so paneer doesn't break.

Step 8: Add Water

• Add about 1/2 cup of water to make a medium-thick gravy.

• Stir and let the curry simmer on low flame for 5–7 minutes.

Step 9: Add Cream (Optional)

• Add 2 tablespoons of fresh cream to make the curry creamy and rich.

• Mix well and simmer for another 1–2 minutes.

Step 10: Add Garam Masala & Garnish

• Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon garam masala.

• Turn off the flame.

• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with roti, naan, paratha, or steamed rice.

• You can also enjoy it with jeera rice or pulao for a complete meal.

Tips

• For a richer taste, lightly fry paneer cubes before adding them.

• You can adjust spice levels as per your preference.

• To make it vegan, use tofu instead of paneer and coconut cream instead of dairy cream.