🔥 Kadai Paneer Recipe | Dhaba Style Restaurant Kadai Paneer at Home

Looking for the best Kadai Paneer recipe that tastes just like your favorite restaurant-style North Indian curry? This spicy paneer curry made with capsicum, onion, and freshly ground kadai masala is a must-try. Perfect for weekend dinners, festive meals, or a special vegetarian Indian lunch, this dish is a favorite among all age groups.

Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this kadai paneer gravy offers rich flavors and a punch of authentic Indian spices — all made easily at home!

🛒 Ingredients for Kadai Paneer (Serves 3–4)

For the Kadai Masala (Dry Roast & Grind):

• Coriander seeds – 2 tbsp

• Dry red chilies – 4 (adjust spice)

• Cumin seeds – 1 tsp

• Black peppercorns – ½ tsp

• Fennel seeds – 1 tsp

• Cardamom – 2 pods (optional)

🔁 Dry roast all above on low flame until aromatic (2–3 mins), cool, then grind coarsely.

For the Curry:

• Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) – 250g (cubed)

• Green capsicum (bell pepper) – 1, diced

• Onion – 1 large, sliced

• Tomato – 3 medium, pureed

• Ginger-garlic paste – 1 tbsp

• Green chili – 1, chopped

• Kashmiri red chili powder – 1 tsp

• Turmeric powder – ½ tsp

• Garam masala – ½ tsp

• Salt – to taste

• Kasuri methi (dry fenugreek leaves) – 1 tsp

• Fresh coriander – for garnish

• Oil or ghee – 2 tbsp

🧑‍🍳 Make Kadai Paneer – Step-by-Step

✅ Step 1: Prepare Kadai Masala

1. Dry roast coriander seeds, cumin seeds, red chilies, black peppercorns, fennel seeds, and cardamom in a pan for 2–3 minutes until aromatic.

2. Let them cool, then coarsely grind using a mixer or mortar-pestle.

3. This homemade kadai masala is what gives the dish its signature flavor.

✅ Step 2: Sauté Veggies

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan. Add sliced onions and sauté till translucent.

2. Add diced capsicum and sauté for 2–3 minutes. It should stay slightly crunchy.

3. Remove the onion-capsicum mixture and keep aside.

✅ Step 3: Make the Tomato Gravy

1. In the same pan, add 1 tbsp more oil.

2. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chili. Sauté for 30 seconds.

3. Add tomato puree and cook for 5–6 minutes till oil starts to separate.

4. Add turmeric, red chili powder, salt, and 1½ tbsp of the ground kadai masala.

5. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.

✅ Step 4: Add Paneer and Final Touches

1. Add paneer cubes, sautéed onion-capsicum, and ½ cup water.

2. Mix gently and simmer the curry for 5–6 minutes.

3. Crush and add kasuri methi and a pinch of garam masala.

4. Garnish with chopped coriander.

🧀 Optional: For richer gravy, you may add 1–2 tbsp cream or butter at the end.

🍽️ Best Occasions to Serve Kadai Paneer

🧂 Serving Suggestions

Serve hot Kadai Paneer with:

• Garlic Naan

• Butter Roti or Tandoori Paratha

• Steamed Basmati Rice or Jeera Rice

• Salad & Mint Chutney on the side

Pair with chilled Lassi or a tall glass of Masala Chaas for a complete North Indian thali experience.

🥗 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

✅ Gluten-free & vegetarian | ❌ Vegan (can substitute paneer with tofu for vegan version)

💡 Expert Tips for Perfect Kadai Paneer

• Use fresh, soft paneer – soak in warm water for 5 mins if refrigerated.

• Don’t overcook paneer – it becomes rubbery.

• Roast spices on low flame to avoid burning and bring out maximum aroma.

• For restaurant-style kadai paneer gravy, keep the curry semi-dry and vibrant.

• Add a few drops of lime juice for extra zing just before serving.

❓ FAQs about Kadai Paneer

Q. What is the difference between Kadai Paneer and Paneer Butter Masala?

Kadai Paneer is made with a spicy tomato base and kadai masala, usually dry or semi-dry. Paneer Butter Masala is richer, cream-based, and has a slightly sweet tone.

Q. Can I use store-bought Kadai Masala?

Yes, but fresh homemade masala enhances aroma and flavor significantly.

Q. Can I make it vegan?

Absolutely! Replace paneer with tofu, and skip cream/ghee.

Q. Is Kadai Paneer healthy?

Yes, it’s high-protein, low-carb (if served with salad or brown rice), and rich in calcium. Use minimal oil for a healthier version.

🔚 Conclusion

This authentic Kadai Paneer recipe brings the restaurant-style taste to your home kitchen in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive meals, this classic North Indian curry is loved for its bold spices, crunchy capsicum, and tender paneer cubes.

Try this version and impress your family with a dish that ticks all boxes — easy, flavorful, gluten-free, and vegetarian!