Easy Curry Paneer Recipe for Beginners | Just Like Home & Restaurant

Introduction

Are you looking for a simple and tasty curry paneer recipe? Then you’re at the right place, my friend. This North Indian-style easy curry paneer recipe for beginners is not only loved in India but also enjoyed by people in the USA and other countries. The best part? It tastes just like restaurant-style, but can be made easily at home.

Even if you’ve never entered the kitchen, no worries. Follow this step-by-step guide and you’ll make a curry so tasty, your family will be impressed. Most ingredients are already in your kitchen, and even if something’s missing, you can grab it from any local store nearby.

This recipe is special to me because I learned it from my mom. It’s simple, tasty, and doesn’t need fancy cream or expensive items. I’ll also share some mistakes people usually make and how you can avoid them.

Easy Curry Paneer Recipe for Beginners with Step by Step Images

Step 1: Lightly Fry the Paneer

Take 200 grams paneer, cut it into cubes (or any shape you like). Put it in a bowl and add:

• 1 tsp cumin powder
• ½ tsp Kashmiri red chilli powder
• ½ tsp garam masala
• A pinch of salt
• Sprinkle some water and mix everything gently.

Now heat 2 tsp butter in a pan. Add the paneer cubes and fry them on high heat for about 3–4 minutes until slightly crispy.
After frying, take them out and put them in a bowl of water. This keeps them soft and tasty. Now let’s prepare the curry!

Step 2: Fry Onion and Spices

In a clean pan, add 2–3 tbsp butter and let it heat up. Then add:

• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• ½ tsp mustard powder
• 2 chopped green chillies
• 10–12 garlic cloves (optional)
Mix everything for 20–25 seconds.

Finely chop 2–3 medium onions and add them in. Cook till golden brown (about 3–4 minutes).

Now add these spices: • ½ tsp cumin powder • ½ tsp garam masala• ½ tsp redchillipowder •½ tsp mixed masala • ½ tsp fennel (saunf) powder • ½ tsp paneer masala (if available)
Cook everything on medium flame for 3–4 minutes. If the masala is sticking, add a spoon of water

Step 3: Add Tomato Puree

Now blend this to make a puree: • 2 tomatoes • 1 inch ginger • 1 tsp coriander powder
• 4–5 cashews • Few coriander leaves
Add this puree to the pan. Add salt to taste and cook until oil starts leaving the sides. This takes 6–7 minutes on medium to high flame.

Step 4: Add Paneer and Final Touch

Now add the fried paneer and a little hot water. Mix well and cook for 4–5 minutes.
Then add:

• 1 tsp Kasuri methi (dry fenugreek)
• 1 tbsp fresh cream (optional)
• Chopped coriander
• Few ginger flakes
Mix everything gently and your curry is ready!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Take it out in a bowl. Add a little butter on top, garnish with onion slices and serve with Naan, Roti, or Kulcha.

Yeh wahi recipe hai jo meri maa banaati thi – ek baar try karoge, toh baar-baar banana chaahoge!

If You Don’t Know How to Make Naan or Kulcha
Don’t worry! I’ve already shared the easy Naan-Roti-Kulcha recipe [Click here to see it].

❌ Common Mistakes Beginners Make

1. Don’t use mustard oil – it changes the flavor completely.
2. Keep all ingredients ready before starting – it saves time and confusion.
3. Don’t over-fry paneer or cook it too much in gravy – it becomes chewy.
4. Follow every step carefully – each one makes a big difference in taste.

✅ Pro Tips for Tastier Paneer Curry

1. Always keep paneer soft – it absorbs flavors better.

2. Add saffron or khoya if you want a royal, Maharaj-style taste.

3. You can use ghee instead of butter – it adds a rich desi flavor.*

4. Like a little tangy taste? Add 2–3 tbsp fresh curd in the gravy.

conclusion

I hope you found this curry paneer recipe easy to follow and clear. If you try it step-by-step, I’m sure you’ll get the same delicious result. Just make sure to avoid the common mistakes I mentioned, and you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time!

FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought paneer for this curry paneer recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought paneer. Just make sure to cut it into even cubes and lightly sauté it before adding to the curry for best texture and taste.

Q: How can I make this curry paneer recipe healthier?

To make it healthier, you can use low-fat paneer or tofu as a substitute. Also, try using less oil and fresh homemade spice blends instead of store-bought ones to reduce added preservatives.

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