Paneer Hyderabadi is a delightful and aromatic paneer gravy that combines the richness of Indian spices with the creamy texture of paneer. This paneer curry stands out for its unique blend of fresh herbs like coriander and mint, paired with the deep flavors of garam masala and roasted cumin. Whether you’re a fan of classic paneer masala or looking for a new paneer recipe, This Paneer gravy offers a delicious twist to traditional paneer dishes. It’s perfect for serving with naan, parotta, or rice.
This recipe brings out the best of Hyderabadi cuisine, renowned for its balance of bold flavors and aromatic spices. The combination of green masala made from onions, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a distinctive taste that sets this paneer gravy apart from others. Unlike typical paneer masala recipes, This dish uses roasted kasoori methi and fresh cream to add a luxurious finish to the dish, making it an irresistible paneer curry option for special occasions or everyday meals.
The Unique Flavor Profile of Paneer Hyderabadi
What makes this paneer dish stand out among paneer recipes is its harmonious blend of spices and herbs. The dish starts with frying paneer cubes until golden, enhancing their flavor and giving them a satisfying texture. These fried paneer pieces are then immersed in a vibrant gravy that showcases the essence of Hyderabadi cuisine. The green masala, crafted from fresh coriander, mint leaves, and aromatic spices, adds a refreshing touch that perfectly complements the richness of the paneer.
Unlike other paneer gravies, this recipe incorporates kasoori methi for a smoky, earthy undertone. The addition of fresh cream not only enriches the gravy but also balances the heat from the spices, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and comforting. Whether you’re a paneer curry enthusiast or exploring new paneer recipes, This recipe is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Tips for Making the Perfect Paneer Curry
- Choosing Paneer: Use fresh and firm paneer for the best results. Soft, high-quality paneer absorbs the flavors of the gravy beautifully.
- Frying Paneer: Lightly frying the paneer adds a golden crust and enhances its texture. Be sure to not over-fry, as this can make the paneer chewy.
- Balancing Flavors: The green masala should be well-blended and cooked until the oil separates. This step ensures the flavors are fully developed.
- Spices: Adjust the spice levels according to your taste. For a milder paneer masala, reduce the number of green chilies and garam masala.
Serving Suggestions
This paneer Gravy pairs wonderfully with various Indian breads like naan, roti, or parotta. The creamy paneer curry also complements steamed basmati rice or jeera rice. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or raita to balance the richness of the dish. This versatile recipe can be enjoyed as a main course for family dinners or festive gatherings.
Health Benefits
This gravy is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Paneer is a rich source of protein, calcium, and essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians. The inclusion of fresh herbs like coriander and mint adds vitamins and antioxidants, while the use of curd in the masala mix aids digestion. This gravy is a wholesome dish that combines taste and health in every bite.
Why this dish Is a Must-Try Paneer Recipe
If you’re looking to elevate your paneer dishes, this is a fantastic choice. Its unique preparation, featuring a green masala base and a medley of aromatic spices, sets it apart from traditional paneer masala recipes. The creamy texture, smoky kasoori methi, and perfectly cooked paneer cubes make it a standout paneer curry for any occasion. Give this flavorful dish a try, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Irresistible Paneer Hyderabadi Delight
Ingredients
For Masala Mix
To Fry Paneer
For Green Masala
For Gravy
Preparation
Prepare the Masala Mix
- In a bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 0.25 cup curd
- 1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder
- 0.75 tsp roasted cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 0.75 tsp garam masala
- 0.5 tsp turmeric powder
- Mix well to form a smooth masala paste and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine the following ingredients:
Fry the Paneer
- Heat 4 tablespoons of oil in a pan.
- Add 200 grams of paneer cubes to the pan.
- Fry the paneer until golden on all sides.
- Remove the fried paneer from the pan and set aside.
Prepare the Green Masala
- To the same pan, add the following ingredients:
- 1 tomato (chopped)
- 3 onions (sliced)
- 7 garlic cloves
- 2 medium-sized pieces of ginger (chopped)
- 4 green chilies (sliced)
- Stir and cook the ingredients until the onions turn golden brown.
- Remove the mixture from the pan and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- Transfer the cooled mixture to a grinding jar.
- Add:
- 1 cup coriander leaves
- 0.5 cup mint leaves
- 0.25 cup water
- Grind all the ingredients into a smooth paste and set aside.
- To the same pan, add the following ingredients:
Cook the Gravy Base
- Heat oil in a pan and add the following whole spices:
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 6 cardamom pods
- 0.5 tsp peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
- 7 cloves
- Stir the spices for a few seconds until aromatic.
- Add the prepared green masala paste to the pan.
- Add 0.5 tsp salt (or to taste).
- Cover the pan and cook for about 5 minutes or until the oil separates from the masala.
- Heat oil in a pan and add the following whole spices:
Combine the Components
- Open the lid and stir in the prepared masala mix.
- Add 0.25 cup water and stir well.
- Allow the mixture to simmer gently.
Finish the Gravy
- Stir in 0.5 cup fresh cream for a rich and creamy texture.
- Add the fried paneer to the gravy and simmer for another 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle 1 tsp roasted kasoori methi over the gravy and mix well.
Your Paneer Hyderabadi is now ready to serve! Enjoy it with parotta, naan, or rice
