Best Easy Dry Paneer Masala Recipe

Dry Paneer Masala is a flavorful vegetarian paneer dish with aromatic Indian spices and rich texture. This high protein vegetarian option is perfect for family meals and supports healthy, protein-rich eating.

Cook 40 min Difficulty NORMAL 330 kcal
#high protein #vegetarian #diabetic friendly #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • Paneer (Indian cottage cheese, cut into cubes) 14 oz
  • Red onion (thinly sliced) 1 cup
  • Tomato (diced) 1 cup
  • Green bell pepper (sliced) 0.5 cup
  • Vegetable oil 2 tbsp
Seasonings/Sauce
  • Cumin seeds 1 tsp
  • Ginger-garlic paste 1 tbsp
  • Red chili powder 1 tsp
  • Coriander powder 1.5 tsp
  • Garam masala 0.75 tsp
  • Turmeric powder 0.5 tsp
  • Salt 1 tsp
  • Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish) 0.25 cup
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 13 g 16%
Protein 17 g 21%
Fat 22 g 60%
Serving size 210g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  2. 2

    Add the sliced onions and sauté on medium-high, stirring frequently, until softened and lightly golden (about 4-5 minutes).

  3. 3

    Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute, then add diced tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Cook on medium-low until tomatoes soften and oil starts separating (about 5 minutes).

  4. 4

    Add paneer cubes and bell pepper slices. Gently toss to coat everything with the masala. Cook uncovered on medium heat for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep paneer from sticking but not breaking apart.

  5. 5

    Sprinkle garam masala and salt. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes on low heat. Once spices are well mixed and the masala is fragrant with very little moisture left, remove from heat.

  6. 6

    Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Dry Paneer Masala recipe?
Paneer is the star ingredient in this recipe. It gives the dish its rich, satisfying texture and carries the flavors of the spices, serving as the primary protein source for this high-protein vegetarian meal.
Q. Which spice is most important for authentic flavor?
Garam masala plays a central role in creating the authentic aroma and warmth characteristic of Dry Paneer Masala. Alongside cumin seeds and coriander powder, it deepens the flavor profile and enhances the dish's Indian character.
Q. How can I prevent the paneer from becoming rubbery while cooking?
To maintain paneer’s soft texture, add it towards the end and cook it over medium heat for no longer than 5-6 minutes. Stir gently and avoid overcooking, as prolonged or high-heat cooking can make paneer tough.
Q. What is the protein-to-carb ratio and calorie content per serving?
Each serving contains 17g of protein and 13g of carbohydrates, with protein at 21% and carbs at 16% of calories. The dish provides about 330 kcal per serving, making it a protein-rich, balanced vegetarian option.
Q. What makes this dish diabetic friendly?
This Dry Paneer Masala delivers only 13g of carbohydrates per serving, using mainly vegetables and paneer while avoiding high glycemic ingredients. It's suitable for blood sugar management within a balanced diet.
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