📸 Image coming soon for Paneer Korma
Paneer Korma
Lunch • India
How to Make Paneer Korma (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Paneer Korma is a luxurious North Indian dish, known for its rich, creamy, and mildly spiced gravy that is perfect for festive lunches and family gatherings. Originating from Mughlai cuisine and popularized across Punjab, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh, Paneer Korma combines soft paneer cubes with a luscious cashew and yogurt-based curry. The subtle use of aromatic whole spices like elaichi (cardamom), dalchini (cinnamon), and laung (cloves) gives this dish its regal taste, while a hint of saffron and kewra water adds depth and fragrance. This healthy version of Paneer Korma prioritizes lighter ingredients without compromising on authenticity or flavor. Using low-fat dahi (curd) and minimal oil, it is an excellent option for calorie-conscious individuals who still wish to savor traditional Indian flavors. Paneer Korma is often enjoyed during special occasions, such as Diwali, Holi, and weddings, making it a centerpiece of celebratory Indian meals. Served with phulka, jeera rice, or whole wheat roti, this dish brings a royal touch to your everyday lunch while staying mindful of nutrition and taste.
Ingredients(for 1 bowl (approx. 200g) with 4-5 paneer cubes and gravy)
- 200 grams Paneer (cottage cheese) (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup Low-fat dahi (curd) (well beaten)
- 1 medium Onion (finely sliced (pyaz))
- 1 medium Tomato (finely chopped (tamatar))
- 8-10 Cashews (kaju) (soaked)
- 1 teaspoon Ginger-garlic paste (adrak-lahsun)
- 1 Green chili (finely chopped (hari mirch)) - optional
- 1 teaspoon Coriander powder (dhaniya powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon Garam masala (homemade preferred)
- 1/4 teaspoon Turmeric powder (haldi)
- 1/2 teaspoon Cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1 Bay leaf (tej patta)
- 1-inch Cinnamon stick (dalchini)
- 1/4 cup Low-fat milk (optional, for creaminess) - optional
- 1 tablespoon Oil (cold-pressed or mustard (sarson ka tel))
- to taste Salt (namak)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh coriander leaves (hara dhaniya, chopped for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Soak cashews in warm water for 10 minutes. Blend them with a little milk or water to make a smooth paste.
10 minutes
Soaking cashews ensures a creamy, lump-free paste.
- 2
Heat oil in a kadhai (wok). Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for 30 seconds until aromatic.
2 minutes
Tempering spices on medium heat releases maximum flavor.
- 3
Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chili, cooking for another minute.
4 minutes
Keep stirring to prevent onions from burning.
- 4
Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric, and coriander powder. Cook until oil separates and tomatoes are soft.
5 minutes
Mash tomatoes well for a smoother gravy.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Paneer Korma recipe is a healthy choice because it swaps heavy cream with low-fat dahi and uses minimal oil, reducing saturated fat intake. It maintains authentic taste without unnecessary calories, making it suitable for weight management and heart health. Protein-rich paneer helps in muscle maintenance, while the absence of refined ingredients ensures a nourishing meal that fits well into a balanced Indian diet.
Paneer Korma provides a balanced mix of protein from paneer, healthy fats from cashews, and essential vitamins from spices and vegetables. Using low-fat dairy and minimal oil keeps the calorie count in check, while the dish remains rich in calcium, phosphorus, and B-vitamins. Cashews and paneer contribute to satiety, making it a wholesome lunch option. The spices like turmeric and ginger add anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, supporting overall wellness.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always use fresh, soft paneer for the best texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Blend soaked cashews thoroughly for a silky, lump-free gravy.
- 💡Tip 3: Add dahi on low flame to prevent curdling and preserve creaminess.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover Paneer Korma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on low flame, adding a splash of milk or water to retain creaminess.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 320.0 kcal |
