Kadhai Paneer A Flavor-Packed Punjabi Classic

Kohe a cut above
16th Jun 2025

Craving that rich, smoky, and spicy Kadhai Paneer you usually order at your favorite restaurant? Good news—you can recreate this North Indian favorite right in your own kitchen with just a few simple ingredients.

Kadhai Paneer is a bold and flavorful dish made with soft paneer cubes, vibrant bell peppers, and onions—all cooked in a masala that’s bursting with spice and warmth. Named after the kadhai (a traditional Indian wok) in which it’s cooked, this dish is as visually colorful as it is mouthwateringly delicious.

Let’s jump into this easy and satisfying recipe.

Ingredients You'll Need:

  • Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) – cubed
  • Bell peppers (capsicum) – sliced or diced
  • Onions – finely chopped
  • Tomatoes – chopped or pureed
  • Ginger-garlic paste
  • Kadhai masala (or a mix of coriander seeds, dry red chilies, and garam masala)
  • Red chili powder
  • Garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • Oil or ghee
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Optional but Recommended:

Green chilies (for heat)

Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves for aroma and flavor)

How To Cook:

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat oil or ghee in a kadhai or deep pan. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell fades.

2. Toss in the Bell Peppers

Add sliced bell peppers (and green chilies if using). Sauté on medium heat until they’re slightly tender but still have a crunch—this gives the dish its signature texture.

3. Add the Tomatoes & Spices

Add chopped or pureed tomatoes. Let them cook down until soft and pulpy. Now add kadhai masala, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and let the masala cook until oil starts separating.

4. Add the Paneer

Gently add paneer cubes to the masala. Mix carefully to coat the paneer without breaking it. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes so the flavors infuse.

5. Finish with Fragrance

Crush some kasuri methi between your palms and add to the curry. Stir and turn off the heat. Garnish generously with chopped cilantro.

How to Serve:

Kadhai Paneer pairs beautifully with:

Tandoori roti or butter naan

Jeera rice or steamed basmati

A side of onion rings and lemon wedges

Tips & Twists:

  1. For extra creaminess, add a spoonful of cream or yogurt at the end.
  2. Use homemade paneer for best results.
  3. Toast whole coriander seeds and dry red chilies, then crush for authentic kadhai masala flavor.

Try this recipe and turn your everyday dinner into a special Punjabi feast!
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