Kaju Paneer Masala
Kaju Paneer Masala is a rich and flavorful vegetarian dish that combines the goodness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and cashews (kaju) in a creamy, spiced gravy. This dish is popular in Indian cuisine, especially for special occasions, family gatherings, and festive meals. With its delightful mix of textures and tastes, Kaju Paneer Masala is an excellent choice for a fulfilling lunch that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
What is Kaju Paneer Masala?
Kaju Paneer Masala is a curry-based dish made by simmering paneer cubes and cashews in a rich, aromatic gravy. The gravy is typically made from a blend of tomatoes, onions, ginger, garlic, and a variety of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. The dish is known for its creamy texture, thanks to ingredients like cashews, cream, or yogurt, which enhance its richness and smoothness. The combination of paneer’s soft texture and the crunchy, nutty cashews creates a perfect balance of flavors in every bite.
The Health Benefits
Not only is Kaju Paneer Masala delicious, but it also offers a number of health benefits. Paneer is an excellent source of protein, making it a great option for vegetarians. It is rich in calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth. On the other hand, cashews are packed with healthy fats, magnesium, and vitamins, which help in maintaining heart health, boosting energy levels, and supporting overall well-being.
Additionally, the dish is cooked with fresh vegetables like onions and tomatoes, which are packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients. When paired with a healthy grain like brown rice or whole wheat roti, Kaju Paneer Masala can provide a balanced and satisfying meal.
How to Make Kaju Paneer Masala?
Ingredients:
- 250g paneer (cubed)
- 1/4 cup cashews (soaked in warm water for 15 minutes)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (pureed)
- 1-inch ginger (grated)
- 2-3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 cup cream or full-fat yogurt (optional)
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cashew Paste: Begin by grinding the soaked cashews into a smooth paste, adding a little water if needed. This will give the gravy a creamy and rich texture.
- Cook the Paneer: In a pan, heat some oil or ghee and lightly fry the paneer cubes until they turn golden. Set them aside on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the chopped onions and sauté them until they turn golden brown. Add the grated ginger and minced garlic, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the Gravy: Add the pureed tomatoes, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt to the pan. Let the mixture cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the oil separates from the masala.
- Add Cashew Paste: Now, add the cashew paste to the pan and stir well. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
- Combine the Paneer: Gently add the fried paneer cubes to the gravy, and mix to coat them well. If you prefer a richer gravy, you can add cream or yogurt at this point.
- Simmer and Garnish: Let the curry simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serving Suggestions
Kaju Paneer Masala pairs beautifully with naan, paratha, roti, or steamed rice. For an extra touch of flavor, serve it with a side of pickles and raita. This dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for lunch with family or friends.
Kaju Paneer Masala is a luxurious and tasty dish that is easy to prepare yet delivers a restaurant-style experience right at home. Its rich, creamy texture and bold flavors make it a perfect choice for a satisfying lunch. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a special meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
