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Paneer Korma Recipe

Paneer Korma

Pan-fried paneer cubes simmered in a rich, aromatic yogurt, onion, and cashew gravy.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Soaking Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients
  

Nuts and Aromatics
  • 14 pieces raw cashews soaked in warm water for 20 minutes
  • 1 tablespoon melon seeds magaj, soaked with cashews
  • 2 medium onions sliced thinly
  • 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste freshly prepared
Curry and Paneer
  • 250 g paneer cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 3 tablespoons cooking oil divided
  • 2 pieces green cardamom pods lightly cracked
  • 1 inch cinnamon stick whole
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt whisked until smooth
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala ground
  • 1 cup water adjusted for desired gravy thickness
  • 1 teaspoon salt or to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Heavy-bottomed skillet or pan Used for frying paneer and simmering the curry.
  • 1 * Blender Used to grind the onion and nut mixture into a smooth paste.

Method
 

  1. Place the raw cashews and melon seeds in a bowl with warm water. Let them soak for 20 minutes, then drain.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the paneer cubes and fry for 3 to 4 minutes, turning gently until light golden at the edges. Remove and set aside in a bowl of warm water to keep them soft.
  3. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced onions and sauté over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes until soft and translucent. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. Transfer the sautéed onions, soaked cashews, and melon seeds to a blender. Blend with a few tablespoons of water until completely smooth.
  5. Heat the remaining oil in the skillet over medium-low heat. Add the cardamom pods and cinnamon stick, letting them sizzle for 30 seconds. Add the ginger garlic paste and cook for 1 minute until the raw aroma fades.
  6. Pour the blended onion and nut paste into the skillet. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently so it thickens and turns pale golden.
  7. Lower the heat. Gradually stir in the whisked yogurt, mixing continuously until incorporated. Pour in 1 cup of water and season with salt. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  8. Drain the paneer cubes and add them to the simmering gravy along with the garam masala. Cook uncovered for 5 minutes until the paneer absorbs the flavors and the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.

Notes

Soaking the fried paneer in warm water before adding it to the curry helps keep the texture soft rather than chewy.
Adjust the water quantity in the final step if you prefer a thicker or thinner sauce.