Tandoori Curry with Paneer and Creamy Cheese

This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of tandoori curry with paneer, a popular Indian cheese, to create a culinary experience full of taste and texture. The crispy golden crust on the paneer cubes adds a satisfying crunch, perfectly complemented by the creamy smoothness of the optional sweet cream. Tandoori curry sauce introduces a depth of spicy and aromatic flavors, making each bite exciting and indulgent. Served with basmati rice, this dish provides a fragrant and fluffy companion that balances the rich sauce. The recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick yet decadent meal. It is a beautiful dish not just for its vibrant colors but also for the harmony of flavors it brings together. Whether you're a fan of Indian cuisine or looking to try something new, this dish is sure to please. It also allows for some creative adaptations depending on dietary preferences. With a few tips and tricks, you can enhance this dish even further, making each preparation a unique delight. Take this journey of flavors and enjoy a home-cooked meal that rivals restaurant quality.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 jar (350 grams) tandoori curry sauce
• 300 grams paneer (white cheese)
• 100 ml sweet cream (optional)
• Basmati rice for serving

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes (including preparation and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Paneer: Cut the paneer cheese into bite-sized cubes to ensure even cooking and coating with the sauce.
2. Heat the Pan: Melt a tablespoon of unsalted butter in a heated pan over medium heat, allowing it to coat the bottom.
3. Cook the Paneer: Add the paneer cubes to the melted butter. Sauté them gently on all sides until a crispy, golden-brown crust forms, usually around 5-7 minutes.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate saucepan, pour the tandoori curry sauce. Add the pan-seared paneer cubes. Stir to coat the paneer evenly.
5. Simmer the Curry: Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for at least 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld together.
6. Optional Creamy Texture: Stir in 100 ml of sweet cream if you prefer a creamier texture. This step is optional and depends on your preference for sauce consistency.
7. Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can opt to forgo the cream or simmer the curry until it thickens to your liking.
8. Prepare the Rice: While the sauce is simmering, cook basmati rice according to package instructions. This typically takes about 15 minutes and should finish concurrently with the sauce.
9. Serve: Once the curry is ready, serve it hot over a bed of freshly cooked basmati rice.
10. Garnishing Options: For an added layer of flavor, garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a sprinkle of toasted almonds.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approx. 400 per serving
• Protein: 15 grams
• Total Fats: 28 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20 grams

Tips

• Substitutions: Feel free to substitute paneer with tofu for a vegan alternative. If you prefer a less spicy dish, reduce the amount of tandoori curry sauce or add more cream.
• Enhancing Flavor: Consider adding chopped garlic or onions when sautéing the paneer for additional flavor depth.
• Texture: To enhance the texture further, a pinch of cumin or mustard seeds added to the butter can provide an extra aromatic touch.

Variations

• Vegan Version: Replace paneer with firm tofu and use coconut milk instead of cream.
• Low-Fat Option: Use low-fat cream or skip it entirely to reduce calorie intake.
• Spicier Kick: Add a pinch of red chili flakes if you favor a spicier dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of naan bread for an authentic dining experience.
• A cucumber and mint raita can cool the palate between spicy bites.
• A fresh salad with lemon dressing complements the richness of the curry.

Best Places

• Bukhara - This renowned restaurant offers legendary tandoori dishes with a rich and authentic flavor profile. Location: New Delhi, India.
• Dishoom - A taste of Bombay in London, serving delightful tandoori options. Location: London, UK.
• Curry House Coco Ichibanya - For a blend of Japanese curry and Indian spices. Location: Tokyo, Japan.
• Tandoor Char House - Offers a fusion of Indian and Pakistani inspired dishes. Location: Chicago, USA.
• Trishna - Michelin-starred with a focus on coastal Indian cuisine. Location: London, UK.
• Rang Mahal - Offers a luxurious dining experience with exquisite tandoori options. Location: Dubai, UAE.
• The Bombay Club - Excellent choice for classic Indian cuisine with a refined touch. Location: Washington D.C., USA.
• Karavalli - Celebrated for its authentic coastal and tandoori dishes. Location: Bengaluru, India.
• Punjab Grill - Known for its upscale take on traditional Indian fare. Location: Singapore, Singapore.
• Amaya - An innovative Indian grill restaurant with a modern twist on tandoori. Location: London, UK.