Craving the fiery, flavorful paneer you find at roadside dhabas in India? Look no further! This recipe unlocks the secrets to creating authentic Dhaba Style Spicy Paneer Masala in your own kitchen. Forget complicated techniques and long ingredient lists; this recipe focuses on achieving that bold, unforgettable dhaba taste with simple, readily available ingredients. We'll build layers of flavor, starting with a fragrant base of onions, tomatoes, and ginger-garlic paste, before introducing the star – perfectly spiced paneer.
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make. We'll guide you through each step, ensuring you achieve that perfect balance of spice and creaminess that defines true Dhaba-style cooking. Let's dive into the step-by-step process and create a culinary masterpiece that will transport you straight to the heart of India.
Tools Needed
- Vessel
- Pan
Ingredients
- Paneer
- Curd (Yogurt)
- Cumin Powder: 2 teaspoons
- Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric Powder: a little
- Oil: 4-5 tablespoons
- Cinnamon
- Bay Leaves
- Onions
- Green Chilies
- Ginger Garlic Paste: 1 teaspoon
- Tomatoes
- Salt
- Garam Masala: 1 teaspoon
- Coriander (Cilantro)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate and Prepare the Paneer
- Cut the paneer into cubes.
- In a vessel, mix curd, cumin powder, red chili powder, and turmeric powder.
- Fry the paneer cubes in oil until the color changes.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Cook the Sauce
- In the remaining oil, sauté cinnamon, bay leaves, and finely chopped onions until cooked.
- Add green chilies and cook.
- Add ginger-garlic paste.
- Add tomatoes and salt, cook until tomatoes are soft.
- Add garam masala and mix well.
Step 3. Combine and Simmer
- Add the curd mixture, and cook until oil separates.
- Add the fried paneer and mix well.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with chopped coriander.
- Mix everything well and serve with roti, naan, chapati, rice, or any other side dish.
Read more: Creamy Cashew Chicken Curry: A Simple Yet Sumptuous Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of green chilies to your preference.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 450-550
- Fat: 30-40g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen paneer?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the masala. This prevents it from becoming watery.
2. How can I adjust the spice level?
Adjust the amount of chili powder and green chilies according to your preference. Start with less and add more gradually to taste.
So there you have it – your very own delicious, authentic Dhaba Style Spicy Paneer Masala! Enjoy this flavorful dish with naan, roti, or rice for a truly satisfying meal. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with your newfound dhaba cooking skills!