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Dinner Meals Cooking Time : 40 minutes Recipe Servings : 4 Recipe Dificult : easy 0.00

Kadai Paneer | Spicy Indian Paneer with Peppers & Masala

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Kadai Paneer is a popular North Indian dish made with golden paneer cubes, colorful bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and a fragrant blend of freshly ground spices. It is known for its bold, slightly smoky flavor and thick, rustic masala coating.

The signature flavor comes from roasted coriander seeds, cumin, dried red chilies, and garam masala. The spices are lightly toasted and crushed to release their aroma before being cooked with tomatoes and onions. Paneer and bell peppers are then added and simmered until beautifully coated in the rich masala.

This flavorful vegetarian curry is perfect for lunch or dinner and pairs wonderfully with naan, roti, paratha, or basmati rice. A garnish of fresh coriander and ginger adds a bright finishing touch.

Cooking Method

Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
Add coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and dried red chilies.
Toast for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Allow the spices to cool slightly, then crush them coarsely.
Heat oil in a large kadai or skillet.
Add the paneer cubes and lightly fry until golden. Remove and set aside.
Add the sliced onion and bell pepper to the same pan.
Cook for 3–4 minutes, keeping the vegetables slightly crisp.
Add ginger and garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric, Kashmiri chili powder, and salt.
Cook for 6–8 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the oil begins to separate.
Add the freshly crushed spice mixture and garam masala.
Stir well and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
Add the water and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Return the paneer to the pan.
Add kasuri methi and gently toss everything together.
Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the paneer is coated with the masala.
Garnish with fresh coriander.
Serve hot with naan, roti, paratha, or rice.