If you’re in the mood for a quick, delicious, and comforting curry that doesn’t take much time to prepare, Jhat Pat Paneer Curry is the perfect recipe for you! This easy-to-make paneer curry packs a punch of flavors and can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, it’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
Ingredients:
- Paneer (Cottage Cheese) – 250g, cubed
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Tomatoes – 2 medium, pureed
- Ginger-Garlic Paste – 1 tsp
- Green Chilies – 2, slit (optional)
- Red Chili Powder – 1 tsp
- Turmeric Powder – ½ tsp
- Coriander Powder – 1 tsp
- Garam Masala – 1 tsp
- Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) – 1 tsp
- Fresh Cream – 2 tbsp (optional, for richness)
- Salt – to taste
- Oil or Ghee – 2 tbsp
- Fresh Coriander Leaves – for garnishing
- Water – 1 cup
Instructions:
- Prep the Paneer:
- Cut the paneer into bite-sized cubes. If you prefer, you can lightly fry the cubes in a little oil until golden brown, but this step is optional.
- Prepare the Gravy:
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Spices:
- Add the red chili powder, turmeric powder, and coriander powder. Stir well for 30 seconds to allow the spices to bloom.
- Add the pureed tomatoes, mix everything well, and cook for about 5-6 minutes until the oil begins to separate from the masala.
- Cook the Curry:
- Add 1 cup of water to the pan and mix the ingredients well. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the garam masala and kasuri methi, followed by the paneer cubes. Mix gently to coat the paneer with the gravy.
- Simmer the curry for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
- Add Cream (Optional):
- If you prefer a richer, creamier curry, add fresh cream at this stage. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the Jhat Pat Paneer Curry with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with roti, naan, or rice.
Tips:
- For a spicy kick: Add more green chilies or a pinch of red chili powder to adjust the heat level.
- Vegetable twist: Add peas, bell peppers, or tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
- Vegan option: You can use tofu instead of paneer and replace cream with coconut milk for a vegan version.
Conclusion:
This Jhat Pat Paneer Curry is a must-try for anyone craving a quick and satisfying meal. The blend of aromatic spices and soft paneer makes it a rich, flavorful dish that pairs well with almost anything. The best part? It comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy days or spontaneous dinner plans. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this simple yet delightful curry!
