Paneer Chilli

Description:

Paneer Chilli is a delicious and flavorful Indian dish made with paneer, a soft and mild cheese, in a spicy tomato-based gravy. It is a popular dish served in restaurants and homes alike and is often enjoyed with roti, naan, or rice. The dish is typically made with a blend of spices, including turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder, which give it a warm, earthy flavor. The paneer is cooked until tender and then coated in the gravy, which is thickened with cream or yogurt.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pound paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or yogurt
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds more, until fragrant.
2. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add the diced tomatoes, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. Add the paneer cubes to the sauce and gently stir to coat. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the paneer is heated through.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or yogurt and season with salt to taste. Cook for an additional minute, or until the sauce is heated through.
5. Serve immediately with roti, naan, or rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.

Nutritional Facts:

One serving of Paneer Chilli provides approximately:

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 10g
• Protein: 25g

Tips:

• For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper to taste.
• You can also use a combination of green and red chilies for a more flavorful sauce.
• If you don't have heavy cream, you can substitute yogurt, sour cream, or even coconut milk.
• Serve Paneer Chilli with your favorite side dishes, such as roti, naan, rice, or even a simple green salad.

Additional Tips for Indian Cooking:

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients. This will make a big difference in the flavor of your dishes.
• Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices. Indian cuisine is all about using a variety of spices to create complex flavors.
• Don't overcook your dishes. Indian food is typically cooked to perfection when the vegetables are still slightly tender.
• Serve your Indian food with warm naan or roti. These flatbreads are perfect for scooping up the flavorful sauces.

I hope you enjoy this recipe for Paneer Chilli! It's a delicious and easy way to introduce yourself to the flavors of Indian cuisine.