Spice Up Your Meal With This Exotic Karaikudi Paneer Curry Recipe

Karaikudi Paneer Curry is a spicy, creamy curry made with paneer cubes in a rich coconut milk-based gravy. The dish is infused with a special Karaikudi masala, giving it a deep, aromatic flavor. It pairs well with rice or roti.

Karaikudi Paneer Curry is a rich and aromatic South Indian dish made by saut ing paneer cubes and simmering them in a flavorful gravy. The base is prepared with onions, tomatoes, and a unique Karaikudi masala made from roasted spices and coconut. Coconut milk adds creaminess, while garam masala and black pepper enhance the flavor. The paneer absorbs the spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, creating a delightful dish. It is garnished with fresh coriander leaves and best served with rice or roti.

Ingredients:

• 250g paneer, cubed
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 green chili, slit
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper powder
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

For Karaikudi Masala:

• 1 tablespoon chana dal
• 1 tablespoon urad dal
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 4-5 dried red chilies
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 2 cloves
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons grated coconut

Instructions:

1. Prepare Karaikudi Masala:

• Dry roast chana dal, urad dal, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, dried red chilies, cinnamon stick, cloves, and bay leaf until aromatic.
• Add grated coconut and roast until golden brown.
• Allow it to cool, then grind to a fine powder and set aside.

2. Saute Paneer:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan, and lightly fry the paneer cubes until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

3. Cook the Base:

• In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Add cumin seeds, fennel seeds, and curry leaves, and saut until they splutter.
• Add chopped onions and green chili, and saut until the onions turn golden brown.

4. Add Tomatoes and Spices:

• Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
• Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy.
• Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and the prepared Karaikudi masala. Cook until the oil separates from the masala.

5. Incorporate Coconut Milk:

• Add coconut milk and mix well. Cook on low heat until the gravy thickens.

6. Add Paneer:

• Add the fried paneer cubes to the gravy and mix gently to coat them with the masala.
• Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors.

7. Finish and Serve:

• Sprinkle garam masala and black pepper powder, and mix well.
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
• Serve hot with steamed rice, roti, or naan.

Karaikudi Paneer Curry is a flavorful and aromatic dish with a perfect blend of spices, making it a delightful addition to your meal.