Paneer Curry with Peas

A rich and flavorful Indian curry featuring paneer (or tofu) and fresh peas in a aromatic tomato-based sauce with traditional spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Served with steamed basmati rice, this vegetarian dish is both comforting and satisfying.

6 servings
50 min

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
  • 1 pound paneer
  • 5 tablespoons usli ghee
  • 1 large onion
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 whole serrano chile
  • 28 ounce crushed tomatoes
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • cups peas
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • cup fresh cilantro
  • 3 cups basmati rice

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Place flour in medium bowl. Add paneer to bowl; toss to coat with flour. Heat 2 tablespoons ghee in heavy large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Shake excess flour from paneer; add to skillet and cook until browned in spots, turning occasionally, about 4 minutes. Transfer paneer to plate; set aside. Reserve skillet.

    10 min

  2. 2.

    Place onion pieces in processor. Using on/off turns, process until finely chopped but not watery. Heat remaining 3 tablespoons ghee in reserved skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and stir until aromatic, about 1 minute. Add chopped onion and cook until beginning to brown, stirring often, about 10 minutes. Add minced ginger, minced garlic, ground coriander, and minced serrano chile with seeds; stir 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes with puree, 1/2 cup water, and turmeric; bring to simmer. Reduce heat to medium low; cover and simmer until mixture thickens slightly and flavors blend, stirring occasionally, about 15 minutes.

    30 min

  3. 3.

    Add shelled fresh peas and cooked paneer; gently fold to incorporate evenly. Cook mixture over medium-low heat until peas are tender and paneer is heated through, folding occasionally, about 5 minutes. Fold in garam masala and cilantro. Season curry to taste with salt and pepper. Serve with steamed basmati rice.

    10 min

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