Punjabi Paneer Bhaji
A vibrant and flavorful Punjabi-style paneer dish, featuring soft paneer cubes simmered in a rich, spiced tomato and onion gravy, infused with aromatic Punjabi spices. This dish is a popular vegetarian main course, often served with roti or naan.

๐ง Ingredients
- 250 g Paneer, cubed
- 3 tbsp Ghee or oil
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds
- 2 medium Onions, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Ginger-garlic paste
- 3 medium Tomatoes, pureed
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1.5 tsp Coriander powder
- 0.5 tsp Red chili powder
- 0.5 tsp Garam masala
- 1 tsp Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed
- 2 tbsp Fresh cream (optional)
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro, chopped
- to taste Salt
- 0.5 cup Water
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
๐ก Tip: Spluttering cumin seeds release their aroma into the oil. - 2
Add finely chopped onions and sautรฉ until golden brown.
๐ก Tip: Ensure onions are well-browned for a rich flavor base. - 3
Add ginger-garlic paste and sautรฉ for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
๐ก Tip: Cooking the ginger-garlic paste well prevents a pungent taste. - 4
Add tomato puree, turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
๐ก Tip: Cooking the masala thoroughly is key to developing deep flavors. - 5
Add the cubed paneer and mix gently. Pour in water and bring to a simmer.
๐ก Tip: Add paneer towards the end to prevent it from becoming tough. - 6
Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors.
๐ก Tip: Simmering allows the paneer to soften and absorb the gravy. - 7
Stir in garam masala and crushed kasuri methi. If using, add fresh cream and mix well.
๐ก Tip: Kasuri methi adds a distinctive aroma and flavor. Cream adds richness. - 8
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with roti, naan, or paratha.
๐ก Tip: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โFor softer paneer, you can soak the cubes in warm water for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the gravy.
- โAdjust the spice levels according to your preference.
- โYou can add a pinch of sugar to balance the tanginess of the tomatoes.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a handful of green peas along with the paneer for added texture and color.
- For a richer gravy, you can add a tablespoon of cashew paste.
- A few drops of kewra water can be added for a floral aroma.