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**Paneer Curry Recipe**

 **Preparation Time**: 15 minutes 

**Cooking Time**: 30 minutes 

**Total Time**: 45 minutes 

**Servings**: 4 

**Introduction**:

Paneer Curry is a classic North Indian dish loved for its creamy texture, rich tomato-based gravy, and the softness of paneer cubes infused with aromatic spices. This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, Paneer Curry is a delightful choice that promises to satisfy your palate.

 **Importance of Ingredients**:

- **Paneer**: Paneer, also known as Indian cottage cheese, is the star ingredient of this dish. It's rich in protein, calcium, and essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice for vegetarians.

- **Tomatoes**: Tomatoes provide the base for the curry, adding a tangy sweetness and vibrant color. They are packed with vitamins C and K, antioxidants, and lycopene.

- **Spices (Cumin seeds, Mustard seeds, Garam Masala, etc.)**: Spices like cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and garam masala not only enhance the flavor but also offer various health benefits, including aiding digestion and boosting metabolism.

- **Ginger Garlic Paste**: This combination adds depth and aroma to the curry while offering anti-inflammatory properties and aiding in digestion.

- **Butter**: Butter adds richness and a velvety texture to the curry, elevating its flavor profile.

**Occasions and Who Can Enjoy It**:

Paneer Curry is versatile and suitable for various occasions:

- **Family Dinners**: It's a perfect dish to serve during family gatherings or casual dinners.

- **Festive Celebrations**: Ideal for celebrating festivals like Diwali or Holi, where rich and flavorful dishes are enjoyed.

- **Weeknight Meals**: Quick to prepare yet satisfying, making it suitable for busy weekdays.

- **Vegetarian Delight**: Loved by vegetarians for its protein-rich paneer and wholesome ingredients.

- **Health-conscious Individuals**: Its use of fresh ingredients and spices with health benefits makes it a good choice for those watching their diet.

 **Benefits and Uses of Having This Recipe**:

- **Nutritious Meal**: Provides a good balance of protein, vitamins, and minerals from paneer and tomatoes.

- **Versatile Dish**: Serve with rice, naan, or roti for a complete meal.

- **Leftovers**: Tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop.

- **Customizable**: Adjust spice levels and consistency according to personal preference.

**Ingredients**:

• - 250 grams Paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cut into cubes
• - 2 large Onions, sliced
• - 6 medium Tomatoes, chopped
• - 3-5 tablespoons Oil
• - 1-2 tablespoons Ginger Garlic Paste
• - 6 Cashews
• - 5 Cloves
• - 5 Cardamom pods
• - 1 teaspoon Mustard Seeds
• - 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
• - 2 small Cinnamon sticks
• - 20 grams Butter
• - Salt, to taste
• - 2-3 teaspoons Red Chilli Powder
• - 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
• - 1 teaspoon Garam Masala Powder
• - A few Curry Leaves
• - A few Coriander Leaves, chopped

 **Detailed Cooking Instructions**:

 1. **Preparation**:

   - Wash and chop the tomatoes into small pieces. Blend them into a smooth paste using a blender or food processor. Set aside.

   - Peel and slice the onions.

   - Prepare ginger garlic paste if not already done.

   - Cut paneer into cubes and soak in warm water for 10 minutes to keep them soft.

 2. **Cooking the Curry Base**:

   - Heat oil in a pan over medium flame.

   - Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter.

   - Add sliced onions, curry leaves, cashews, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and cardamom pods. Sauté until onions turn golden brown and cashews are lightly roasted.

   - Add turmeric powder and salt. Mix well.

   - Pour in the tomato paste. Cook until the mixture thickens and oil starts to separate from the masala.

   - Add red chilli powder according to your spice preference. Stir well.

 3. **Enhancing the Flavor**:

   - Add ginger garlic paste. Sauté until the raw aroma diminishes and the mixture releases a rich fragrance.

   - Cover the pan and let the curry simmer gently for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally.

 4. **Final Touches**:

   - Once the curry base is well-cooked and oil separates, add butter. Stir until butter melts and blends into the curry, adding richness.

 5. **Preparing the Paneer**:

   - In a separate pan, bring water to a boil. Add paneer cubes and cook for 2 minutes on high heat.

   - Drain the paneer and add it to the tomato gravy. Gently mix to coat the paneer with masala.

   - Cook for 5 minutes on medium-low heat, allowing paneer to absorb flavors of the curry.

 6. **Final Seasoning and Garnishing**:

   - Sprinkle garam masala powder over the curry. Stir gently to incorporate.

   - Add chopped coriander leaves for freshness and aroma.

 7. **Finshing Touches**:

   - Turn off the heat and let the curry sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together even further.

   - Serve hot with steamed rice, jeera rice, or vegetable pulao. The creamy and aromatic Paneer Curry pairs perfectly with these dishes, enhancing your dining experience.

 8. **Storage**:

   - Paneer Curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

 **Health Benefits and Uses**:

Paneer Curry offers several health benefits:

- **Protein-Rich**: Paneer provides high-quality protein essential for muscle growth and repair.

- **Vitamins and Minerals**: Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, potassium, and folate.

- **Antioxidants**: Spices like turmeric, cumin, and cloves offer antioxidants that promote overall health.

- **Digestive Aid**: Ginger and garlic aid digestion and help alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort.

 **Cooking Tips and Variations**:

- **Frying Paneer**: For firmer paneer, lightly fry cubes in oil with a pinch of salt and turmeric before adding to the curry.

- **Consistency**: Adjust water or tomato paste to achieve desired thickness.

- **Customization**: Adjust spice levels to suit your taste preferences.

- **Creamy Texture**: Increase butter or cream for a richer texture.

- **Vegetable Addition**: Add bell peppers, peas, or spinach for added nutrition and variety.

- ** Spice Levels**: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of red chilli powder to suit your taste buds.

- **Butter Magic**: Butter adds a delightful richness and enhanced the overall flavor profile of the curry. Don’t skip it if you want that extra creamy texture.

By following these detailed steps and tips, you can create a sumptuous Paneer Curry that delights with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe, and share the joy of flavorful Indian cuisine with your loved ones!

 **Nutritional Information**:

(*Per Serving*)

- Calories: 320 kcal

- Carbohydrates: 15g

- Protein: 12g

- Fat: 25g

- Fiber: 4g

- Sugar: 7g

- Sodium: 800mg

- Cholesterol: 50mg

 **Presentation and Servings**:

Serve Paneer Curry hot garnished with fresh coriander leaves alongside steamed rice, naan, or roti. Present it in a decorative bowl or plate to enhance its appeal, making it an inviting and satisfying meal.

 **Conclusion**:

Paneer Curry is not just a dish; it’s an experience of rich flavors, wholesome ingredients, and cultural heritage. Whether you're cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe offers a delightful blend of spices, textures, and nutrition. Enjoy the warmth of Indian cuisine with every bite of this creamy and aromatic Paneer Curry!

 By following these detailed steps, tips, and nutritional insights, you can create a restaurant-quality Paneer Curry that will impress and satisfy everyone at your table. Embrace the joy of cooking and sharing delicious meals with loved ones through this delightful recipe.