Looking for a comforting and flavorful Indian dish that’s both hearty and satisfying? Try this Aloo Paneer Masala Recipe—a rich and aromatic curry made with soft paneer cubes and tender potatoes cooked in a spicy tomato-onion gravy. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or a weekend feast, this classic North Indian dish is bound to become a family favorite.
Why This Aloo Paneer Masala Recipe Works
This aloo paneer recipe for dinner parties is a hit because:
- It combines two popular ingredients: potatoes and paneer.
- It’s rich in flavor but uses simple pantry staples.
- It pairs well with a variety of Indian breads like naan, paratha, or even steamed rice.
If you’re a fan of easy Indian paneer recipes, this one deserves a spot in your weekly menu.
🌟 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious paneer and potato curry:
- 1½ tbsp ghee
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 piece cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- ¼ cup onion paste
- 2¼ tsp ginger paste
- 2¼ tsp garlic paste
- 2 medium tomatoes (pureed)
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1½ tsp red chili powder
- 2 tsp coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 medium potatoes (cut into cubes)
- 250g paneer (cut into cubes)
- Chopped coriander leaves (for garnish)
🔪 How to Make Aloo Paneer Masala
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatic Base
Heat ghee in a kadhai or deep pan. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for a minute until fragrant. Add onion paste and cook for 2 minutes. Now, stir in the ginger and garlic paste. Cook on medium heat until the mixture turns golden and the raw smell disappears.
Step 2: Add the Spices
Add turmeric, red chili powder, and coriander powder along with a tablespoon of water. Cook the mixture for 3–4 minutes until the oil begins to separate. Pour in the tomato puree and continue cooking until the masala thickens.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
Add the potato cubes and salt to taste. Stir well. Pour in about 3 cups of water. Cover and cook on a low flame for 12–15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Add Paneer
Once the potatoes are cooked, add the paneer cubes and gently stir to mix without breaking them. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and garnish your aloo paneer masala with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
🥘 Tips for the Perfect Aloo Paneer Masala
- Use homemade paneer for a fresh and soft texture.
- You can shallow-fry the paneer cubes before adding them if you prefer a slightly crispy edge.
- Let the curry rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
🍽️ What to Serve with Aloo Paneer Masala?
This paneer and potato curry recipe pairs perfectly with:
- Lachha Paratha
- Butter Naan
- Jeera Rice
- Tandoori Roti
For a complete meal, serve it alongside raita and salad.
💪 Nutritional Benefits
- Paneer is a great source of protein, making this a good option for vegetarians focused on muscle gain.
- Potatoes provide fiber and essential nutrients.
- The spices used support digestion and metabolism.
This is also one of the best high-protein Indian vegetarian dinner recipes for both taste and nutrition.
🥄 Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.
- Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent paneer from getting rubbery.
Also Read – 10 Healthy Low-Calorie Indian breakfast Ideas for Weight Loss