Balti Paneer With Vegetarian Recipes for Easy Meals

If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the essence of Indian street food right into your kitchen, look no further than Balti Paneer. This beloved dish is a vegetarian delight, showcasing paneer—India’s famous fresh cheese—simmered in a rich, aromatic curry bursting with spices and fresh vegetables.

Originating from Birmingham’s Balti Triangle, this recipe combines the best of traditional Indian flavors with an easy-to-follow preparation that even beginners can master.

Whether you’re a paneer lover or just exploring vegetarian options, this Balti Paneer recipe will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. The dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend feasts, or impressing guests with its bold, colorful presentation.

Plus, it pairs wonderfully with rice or naan, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best things about Balti Paneer is its vibrant flavor profile without being overwhelming. The combination of fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, and a balanced blend of spices creates a curry that’s aromatic yet fresh.

Unlike some heavy curries, Balti Paneer is light on oil and can be customized to your preferred spice level.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or add a smoky twist with charred peppers.

Plus, paneer is a fantastic source of protein, making this dish a nutritious vegetarian option. You’ll appreciate how quick it is to prepare, especially if you keep your spice mix ready to go.

Ingredients

• 250g paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for color)
• 1/2 cup water
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Equipment

• Large non-stick skillet or wok (a traditional balti pan if you have one)
• Sharp knife for chopping vegetables and paneer
• Cutting board
• Grater for ginger
• Measuring spoons
• Spoon or spatula for stirring
• Bowl for marinating paneer (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the paneer: If you like, lightly fry the paneer cubes in 1 tablespoon of oil until golden on all sides. Set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil. This step is optional but adds a nice texture.
2. Heat the oil: In your skillet or balti pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and fry for 30 seconds until they release their aroma.
3. Sauté aromatics: Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Cook the tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes along with salt. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have broken down and formed a thick sauce.
5. Add spices: Stir in the coriander powder, turmeric, chili powder, paprika, and garam masala. Mix well and cook for 2 minutes to toast the spices and develop their flavors.
6. Add vegetables: Toss in the sliced green and red bell peppers. Stir to coat them in the spiced tomato sauce, then cover and cook for 5 minutes so the peppers soften but remain slightly crisp.
7. Add paneer and water: Gently fold in the paneer cubes. Pour in 1/2 cup of water and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 5 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the curry to thicken slightly.
8. Finish with lemon and garnish: Remove from heat, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the curry, and sprinkle with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
9. Serve immediately: Balti Paneer is best enjoyed hot, paired with basmati rice, naan, or your favorite Indian bread.

Tips & Variations

“For a smokier flavor, try charring the bell peppers under a broiler before adding them to the curry.”

If you prefer a creamier dish, add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking. For extra protein, toss in some cooked chickpeas or peas along with the paneer.

Not a fan of bell peppers? Try swapping them with zucchini, mushrooms, or baby spinach for different textures and flavors.

Adjust the chili powder based on your heat tolerance, and feel free to add a pinch of fenugreek leaves for an authentic touch.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Balti Paneer with fragrant basmati rice or warm garlic naan to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of cucumber raita or a simple green salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy richness of the curry.

For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Half Runner Beans Recipe or a light lentil dish. If you love Indian breads, try making your own Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe for a unique twist.

Conclusion

Balti Paneer is a celebration of Indian flavors with a fresh, vibrant twist that makes vegetarian cooking exciting and satisfying. This recipe is approachable for all skill levels, packed with aromatic spices, and offers delicious textures from tender paneer and crisp vegetables.

It’s a perfect dish for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, wholesome meal without meat.

With its rich yet balanced flavors, this recipe can easily become your go-to for quick dinners or festive occasions. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the spices and vegetables to make it your own.

And if you enjoyed this, you might want to check out other delicious recipes like the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or the indulgent Glazed Twist Donut Recipe for dessert inspirations.

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