Description
Jamie Oliver’s Paneer Curry is a vegetarian Indian-inspired curry featuring paneer, a mild Indian cheese that holds its shape when cooked. The curry is made with a spiced tomato and coconut milk sauce, infused with traditional spices like turmeric, cumin, and garam masala, creating a balance of creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors. It’s a quick, flavorful dish that’s both nourishing and filling.
Ingredients
- 250g Paneer (cubed): The star ingredient, adds protein and texture.
- 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil: For sautéing the paneer and spices.
- 1 Large Onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and flavor.
- 2 Cloves Garlic (minced): Adds depth and aroma.
- 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger (grated): Adds warmth and a slight zing.
- 1 Green Chili (finely chopped, seeds removed for less heat): Adds spice.
- 1 tsp Ground Turmeric: Adds color and earthiness.
- 1 tsp Ground Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 tsp Garam Masala: A blend of spices for an authentic Indian flavor.
- 1 tsp Ground Coriander: Adds a mild, citrusy note.
- 400g Canned Tomatoes: Forms the base of the curry sauce.
- 200ml Coconut Milk: Adds creaminess and balances the spices.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): For seasoning.
- Fresh Coriander (chopped, for garnish): Adds freshness and color.
Instructions
Step 1. Sauté the Paneer
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed paneer and sauté for 3-4 minutes until golden brown on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the garlic, ginger, and chopped green chili, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 3. Add the Spices
Add the ground turmeric, cumin, garam masala, and coriander to the skillet. Cook the spices for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until they become fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of the spices.
Step 4. Add Tomatoes and Coconut Milk
Pour in the canned tomatoes and coconut milk, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for 8-10 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
Step 5. Add the Paneer and Season
Return the paneer to the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat the paneer through.
Step 6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh chopped coriander before serving. Serve the paneer curry hot with rice, naan, or chapati.