Chilli Paneer Gravy Veg Recipes Of India Made Easy

Chilli Paneer is a beloved dish in Indian cuisine, especially popular in Indo-Chinese food culture. This flavorful, spicy, and tangy paneer gravy recipe is perfect for those who crave a delightful burst of flavors with every bite.

Paneer, a fresh Indian cottage cheese, absorbs the rich spices and sauces beautifully, creating a luscious gravy that pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, naan, or roti. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this chilli paneer gravy recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant taste and comforting texture.

In this post, we’ll explore the detailed steps to make the perfect chilli paneer gravy, along with tips, variations, and serving suggestions. Let’s dive into the heart of Indian cooking and bring this delicious dish to your kitchen table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chilli paneer gravy recipe is a perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. The paneer cubes stay soft and succulent, while the gravy is packed with aromatic spices and tangy tomato base.

It’s a great way to enjoy a vegetarian dish that feels hearty and indulgent. Plus, the recipe is straightforward and uses easily available ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.

It’s also a versatile dish — you can customize the spice level and add your favorite vegetables. This recipe is a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Indian flavors with a modern twist.

Ingredients

• 250 grams paneer, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or mustard oil preferred)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium bell pepper (capsicum), chopped
• 2-3 green chilies, slit
• 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili sauce (adjust based on spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cornflour, dissolved in 3 tablespoons water
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
• 1/2 cup water or as needed

Equipment

• Non-stick pan or wok (kadhai)
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Blender or food processor (for tomato puree)

Instructions

1. Prepare the paneer: Cut the paneer into bite-sized cubes. You can lightly fry the paneer in 1 tablespoon oil until golden on all sides or keep it fresh as per your preference. Set aside.
2. Cook the vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a pan or wok on medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent and slightly golden.
3. Add aromatics: Mix in the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
4. Incorporate bell peppers: Add the chopped bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes. The peppers should remain slightly crunchy for texture.
5. Tomato puree and spices: Pour in the fresh tomato puree and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
6. Flavor the gravy: Add soy sauce, chili sauce, red chili powder, garam masala, salt, and sugar. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes to blend the spices.
7. Thicken the gravy: Slowly add the cornflour-water mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Adjust the gravy consistency by adding water as needed. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the gravy thickens.
8. Add paneer cubes: Gently fold in the fried or fresh paneer cubes into the gravy. Simmer for 3-5 minutes so the paneer absorbs the flavors.
9. Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves on top. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice, jeera rice, or Indian breads like naan or roti.

Tips & Variations

“For a smokier flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or use a charcoal smoke infusion before serving.”

• Make it vegan: Substitute paneer with tofu, and use vegan sauces.
• Add vegetables: Include mushrooms, baby corn, or peas for more texture and nutrition.
• Adjust spice levels: Use less chili sauce or green chilies if you prefer mild flavors.
• Use fresh herbs: Garnish with mint leaves along with coriander for an aromatic twist.
• Serve dry style: Skip the cornflour and reduce the water to create a dry chilli paneer variant.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Chilli paneer gravy pairs beautifully with a variety of Indian staples. Serve it piping hot with:

• Steamed basmati rice – the fluffy grains soak up the flavorful gravy perfectly.
• Jeera rice (cumin rice) – adds a fragrant and subtle flavor contrast.
• Indian breads like naan, tandoori roti, or paratha for a filling meal.
• Fried rice or noodles for a more Indo-Chinese inspired combination.

For a complete meal, consider pairing with some crunchy vegetable salad or an appetizer like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or a refreshing pickle such as the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe. These additions can elevate your dining experience with complementary flavors.

Conclusion

Chilli paneer gravy is a delightful dish that brings together the best of Indian spices and Indo-Chinese influences. This recipe offers a perfect balance of heat, tang, and richness, making it a go-to vegetarian option for busy weeknights or special occasions.

The combination of soft paneer cubes and a luscious, spicy gravy ensures every bite is a treat for your taste buds.

By following this detailed recipe, you can easily recreate this restaurant-style dish at home with fresh ingredients and minimal fuss. Don’t forget to experiment with the spice levels and vegetables to suit your preferences.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love trying other unique dishes like the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for a hearty meal or the sweet and smooth Peda Recipe Ricotta Cheese for dessert inspiration.

Happy cooking and savor every flavorful moment!

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