How To Cook Masala Paneer: A Flavorful Indian Delight

Masala Paneer is one of the most beloved dishes in Indian cuisine—packed with spices, creamy textures, and mouthwatering aromas. Whether you're a fan of vegetarian food or just exploring new culinary horizons, learning how to cook Masala Paneer will be a game-changer in your kitchen adventures.

In this post, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of making this iconic dish at home. Perfect for beginners or seasoned cooks looking to impress.

🧀 What Is Masala Paneer?

Masala Paneer is a North Indian curry made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) simmered in a richly spiced tomato and onion gravy. It’s typically enjoyed with naan, roti, or jeera rice. The dish strikes a balance between creamy, tangy, and spicy—making it a crowd favorite.

🛒 Ingredients You'll Need

Here's a list of basic ingredients for making Masala Paneer (serves 2–3):

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee

• 1 large onion (finely chopped)

• 2 tomatoes (pureed or finely chopped)

• 1 green chili (optional, slit)

• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1 teaspoon red chili powder

• 1 teaspoon coriander powder

• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

• 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds

• Salt to taste

• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

For the Paneer:

• 200–250g paneer (cubed)

• 2 tablespoons fresh cream or milk (optional, for richness)

🍳 How To Cook Masala Paneer (Step-by-Step)

1. Sauté the Spices

Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they start to splutter, add finely chopped onions. Sauté until golden brown.

2. Build the Base

Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute. Then add pureed tomatoes, turmeric, red chili, and coriander powder. Cook the mixture until oil starts separating—this step brings out the deep flavors.

3. Add the Paneer

Gently add paneer cubes to the masala and stir to coat them well. Cook for 3–4 minutes. You can add 2 tablespoons of cream or milk at this stage for a creamier texture.

4. Finish With Garam Masala

Sprinkle garam masala and stir gently. Simmer for another 2 minutes on low heat.

5. Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat, garnish with chopped coriander leaves, and serve hot.

🥘 What To Serve With Masala Paneer?

• Butter naan or tandoori roti

• Jeera (cumin) rice or plain basmati rice

• A side of salad or pickled onions

🧑‍🍳 Pro Tips

• Lightly fry the paneer cubes before adding them for a slightly crispy texture.

• Soak paneer in warm water for 5 minutes if it's store-bought and too firm.

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) at the end.

📌 Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to cook Masala Paneer, you can whip up this comforting dish anytime you're craving something spicy and satisfying. It's easy to prepare, customizable to your spice level, and always a hit with family and friends.