How to make Dhaniya Paneer (Cilantro Paneer Curry) | Fresh, Flavorful, and Easy 30-Minute Recipe

  

Dhaniya Paneer Delight | A Fresh and Flavorful Indian Cheese

 Curry

Are you looking for a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying vegetarian dish that's also quick to make? 

Look no further than Dhaniya Paneer! This delightful Indian curry features soft, creamy paneer (Indian cottage cheese) immersed in a rich, aromatic gravy bursting with the freshness of cilantro (dhaniya). It’s a perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a unique twist on traditional paneer recipes.

Let's dive into how you can create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen!

What is Dhaniya Paneer?

Dhaniya Paneer literally translates to "Cilantro Cottage Cheese." It’s a North Indian dish where the star ingredient, fresh cilantro, forms the base of a vibrant green gravy. This isn't just a garnish; the cilantro is blended with other aromatic spices, creating a fragrant and slightly tangy sauce that beautifully complements the mild paneer. It's lighter than many cream-based curries but equally rich in flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Fresh & Flavorful: The abundance of fresh cilantro gives this dish an unparalleled freshness.

• Healthy: Packed with protein from paneer and nutrients from fresh herbs.

• Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together in under 30 minutes.

• Versatile: Pairs wonderfully with naan, roti, rice, or even a simple side salad.

• Vegetarian & Gluten-Free: A fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions (ensure your paneer is gluten-free).

Ingredients You'll Need:

Before we start cooking, gather your ingredients. Freshness is key for this dish!

• Paneer: 200g, cut into cubes

• Fresh Cilantro (Dhaniya): 1 large bunch (about 2 cups packed), roughly chopped

• Onion: 1 medium, roughly chopped

• Tomatoes: 2 medium, roughly chopped (or 1/2 cup tomato puree)

• Ginger: 1 inch piece, peeled

• Garlic: 3-4 cloves

• Green Chillies: 1-2, adjust to your spice preference

• Cashews: 10-12, soaked in warm water for 15 minutes (for creaminess)

• Yogurt: 2 tablespoons plain, full-fat (optional, for extra tang and creaminess)

• Oil/Ghee: 2 tablespoons

• Cumin Seeds (Jeera): 1 teaspoon

• Turmeric Powder (Haldi): 1/2 teaspoon

• Coriander Powder (Dhaniya Powder): 1 teaspoon

• Garam Masala: 1/2 teaspoon

• Salt: To taste

• Water: 1/2 to 1 cup (as needed for gravy consistency)

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Step-by-Step Dhaniya Paneer Recipe

Let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a delicious Dhaniya Paneer.

Step 1: Prepare the Green Paste

In a blender, combine the fresh cilantro, roughly chopped onion, ginger, garlic, green chillies, and soaked cashews (drain the water first). 

Add a splash of water (about 1/4 cup) to help it blend. 

Blend until you have a smooth, vibrant green paste. 

This is the heart of our Dhaniya Paneer!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Green Paste

Now, add the prepared green cilantro paste to the pan. 

Mix well with the tomatoes and cook for 8-10 minutes on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. 

The paste will darken slightly, and the raw smell will disappear. 

This step is crucial for developing the flavor.

Step 4: Add Spices and Yogurt

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt. 

Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. If using, whisk the yogurt and add it to the pan. 

Mix continuously to prevent curdling, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Paneer and Simmer

Add the paneer cubes and about 1/2 cup of water to the gravy. 

Gently stir to coat the paneer. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. 

Cover the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors. 

If the gravy is too thick, add a little more water.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle in the garam masala and give it a final gentle stir.

Taste and adjust salt if needed. Remove from heat. 

Your flavorful Dhaniya Paneer is ready!

Serving Suggestions

Dhaniya Paneer is incredibly versatile and pairs well with almost any Indian bread or rice dish. 

For a complete meal, serve it with:

• Naan or Roti: Garlic Naan or simple Tandoori Roti are perfect for scooping up the flavorful gravy.

• Jeera Rice: The subtle flavor of cumin rice complements the strong cilantro profile.

• Pulao: A vegetable or pea pulao adds texture and heartiness.

• Simple Sides: A side of sliced onion and a cool cucumber raita (yogurt dip) helps balance the richness.

Tips for the Perfect Dhaniya Paneer

• Use Fresh Cilantro: The success of this recipe depends heavily on the freshness of your cilantro. Avoid using wilted or yellowed leaves.

• Blanching the Cilantro: For an extra vibrant green color, you can briefly blanch the cilantro (dip it in boiling water for 30 seconds, then immediately plunge it into ice water) before blending. This locks in the color, though it is optional.

• Make it Vegan: To make this dish completely vegan, substitute the paneer with firm tofu (press and cube it) and replace the yogurt with a few tablespoons of coconut cream or cashew cream.

• Prevent Gravy Curdling: If you use yogurt (as in Step 4), ensure the heat is very low when you add it, and stir constantly until it is fully incorporated into the curry base.

• Soaking the Paneer: If your paneer seems a little firm, soak the cubes in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the curry. This makes them incredibly soft and spongy.

Storing and Reheating

Dhaniya Paneer can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats well on the stovetop over low heat. If the gravy thickens upon cooling, add a splash of water or milk while reheating to reach the desired consistency.

Conclusion: Taste the Freshness!

This Dhaniya Paneer recipe is a wonderful way to introduce a fresh, herbaceous flavor to your weekly rotation. It’s comforting, satisfying, and far from the heavy curries you might be used to. The vibrant green color is an indicator of the freshness and the depth of flavor packed into every bite.

Give this recipe a try tonight and watch it become a new family favorite. 

Your Turn to Cook!

We hope you enjoy this unique and flavorful twist on traditional paneer curry.

If you try this recipe, we'd love to hear about it!  

Leave a comment below letting us know how it turned out. 

Did you serve it with naan or rice? 

Let us know your favorite pairing!

Happy cooking, and we'll see you in the kitchen for the next recipe!