Best Easy Paneer Handi Recipe

Paneer handi is a slow-cooked, pot-style vegetarian curry with a creamy, aromatic gravy. This high protein vegetarian dish is a comforting family dinner option for any occasion.

Cook 45 min Difficulty NORMAL 365 kcal
#vegetarian #high protein #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • Paneer (cubed) 12 oz
  • Onion (chopped) 1.5 cups
  • Tomato (chopped) 1.5 cups
  • Heavy cream 0.33 cup
  • Cashews 0.25 cup
  • Green bell pepper (diced) 0.5 cup
  • Ginger (minced) 1 tbsp
  • Garlic (minced) 1.5 tsp
Seasonings/Sauce
  • Ghee or oil 2 tbsp
  • Cumin seeds 1 tsp
  • Garam masala 1 tsp
  • Coriander powder 1.5 tsp
  • Turmeric powder 0.5 tsp
  • Red chili powder 1 tsp
  • Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek) 1 tsp
  • Salt 1.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 19 g 21%
Protein 18 g 20%
Fat 22 g 59%
Serving size 220g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Heat 2 tbsp ghee or oil in a clay pot or thick-bottomed handi over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and allow them to sizzle for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn.

  2. 2

    Add chopped onions and sauté on medium heat until golden brown, about 8–10 minutes, stirring often for even caramelization.

  3. 3

    Add ginger and garlic, cook for 1 minute, then add tomatoes, salt, turmeric, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Stir well and cook until tomatoes are soft and oil starts to release, about 6–7 minutes.

  4. 4

    Blend soaked cashews with 3 tbsp water into a smooth paste. Add this paste to the pot and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring often and maintaining gentle heat to prevent sticking.

  5. 5

    Add diced green bell peppers and cook for 2 minutes to retain some crunch. Mix in garam masala and kasuri methi.

  6. 6

    Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Add the paneer cubes, combine carefully to avoid breaking the cubes, and cook uncovered for 3–4 minutes so paneer soaks up the flavors.

  7. 7

    Stir in the heavy cream, mix gently, and simmer on low for 2–3 minutes until the curry is creamy and thick. Taste and adjust salt; serve hot.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Paneer Handi recipe?
Paneer is the foundational ingredient in this recipe, providing the distinct creamy texture and high protein content that defines Paneer Handi. The combination of onion, tomato, cream, and authentic Indian spices builds its unique pot-style flavor.
Q. What heat control tips make this recipe successful?
Sauté onions slowly on medium heat until uniformly golden. Maintain low to medium heat when adding cream and cashew paste to prevent curdling or sticking. Simmer gently after adding paneer for maximum flavor absorption and soft texture.
Q. How do I avoid overcooked or rubbery paneer?
Add paneer towards the end and simmer gently for only 3–4 minutes without boiling vigorously. This ensures it soaks flavor without becoming rubbery. Gentle stirring helps prevent breakage and preserves its softness.
Q. How many calories and protein does each serving provide?
Each 220g serving of Paneer Handi yields about 365 kcal, with 18g of protein—making it a substantial, high-protein vegetarian main. The protein makes up approximately 20% of total calories per serving.
Q. Is Paneer Handi suitable for vegetarian or Mediterranean diets?
Yes, this Paneer Handi recipe is completely vegetarian and, with its focus on whole spices, vegetables, paneer, and moderate fat, fits into a Mediterranean-inspired approach as well.
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