Paneer Jalfrezi, a vibrant and flavorful Indian stir-fry, is a culinary delight that tantalizes the taste buds with its rich blend of spices and creamy paneer cheese. This beloved dish offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes, showcasing the soft, melt-in-your-mouth paneer against a backdrop of crisp vegetables and a robust, aromatic sauce. Whether you're a seasoned Indian food enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Paneer Jalfrezi is an accessible and rewarding dish to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Its versatility allows for customization to your spice preference, making it a truly adaptable recipe.
This recipe simplifies the traditional method, offering a quick and easy approach without compromising on flavor. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the vegetables to achieving the perfect balance of spices in the sauce. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to create your own delicious Paneer Jalfrezi? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Frying Pan
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- Paneer: 1 cup (3 oz), cut into long strips
- Bell Pepper: 1 cup, cut into long strips (different colors preferred)
- Carrot: 1 cup, cut into long strips
- Green Beans: 1 cup, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Tomato: 1 medium, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Oil: 3 tablespoons
- Cumin Seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Nigella Seeds: ½ teaspoon
- Ginger: 1 teaspoon, finely sliced
- Green Chili: 1 tablespoon, chopped
- Salt: ¾ teaspoon
- Turmeric Powder: ¼ teaspoon
- Garam Masala: ¼ teaspoon
- Cilantro: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and nigella seeds; they should crackle when the oil is hot enough.
- Add carrots and stir-fry for about a minute.
- Add green beans, stir, and sprinkle salt.
- Cook for another minute or two until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add bell peppers, ginger, green chilies, and turmeric. Stir and lower heat to low-medium.
Step 2. Simmer with Tomatoes and Spices
- Add tomatoes and cook until soft.
Step 3. Finish and Garnish
- Turn off the heat. Add garam masala and cilantro; mix well.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot.
Read more: Easy Instant Bell Pepper Snack Recipe | Healthy & Flavorful
Tips
- Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your spice preference.
- Serve with naan, roti, paratha, or plain rice.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen paneer?
It's best to use fresh paneer for the best texture and taste. If using frozen, ensure it's fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
2. What can I substitute for bell peppers?
Feel free to substitute other vegetables like onions, cauliflower, peas, or green beans. Adjust cooking time according to the vegetable's firmness.
3. How can I make it spicier?
Add more green chilies, or a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to increase the heat level according to your preference.
Enjoy your homemade Paneer Jalfrezi! This quick and easy recipe delivers a restaurant-quality dish right to your table. Impress your friends and family with this flavorful and satisfying Indian stir-fry.