Introduction

Masaledar Paneer Bhurji is a quick, flavorful North Indian dish perfect for busy weeknights. This spicy scrambled paneer is packed with onions, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, delivering a satisfying meal in minutes. It pairs wonderfully with roti or toast, making it a versatile favorite for breakfast or dinner.

Ingredients

This Masaledar Paneer Bhurji delivers an aromatic explosion of spices with every bite, featuring soft crumbled paneer infused with the sharpness of onions and the heat of fresh green chilies.

• Paneer (you can substitute with crumbled tofu)
• Onion
• Tomato
• Green chilies
• Ginger-garlic paste
• Cumin seeds
• Turmeric powder
• Red chili powder
• Garam masala
• Coriander powder
• Salt
• Oil
• Fresh coriander leaves

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	25 minutes

Context: This Masaledar Paneer Bhurji is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it a quick and tasty meal option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Paneer

Crumble 200 grams of fresh paneer into a bowl using your fingers or a grater. Ensure the paneer is at room temperature for easy crumbling and better texture absorption later.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a kadai or non-stick pan over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.

Add 1 finely chopped large onion and sauté until golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This forms the flavor base for your Masaledar Paneer Bhurji.

Step 3 — Add Ginger-Garlic and Green Chilies

Stir in 1 tablespoon of finely chopped ginger, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, and 1–2 slit green chilies. Sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears and the mixture is aromatic.

Step 4 — Cook the Tomatoes and Spices

Add 2 finely chopped tomatoes along with 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon of red chili powder, and salt to taste. Cook until the tomatoes turn soft and the oil starts to separate from the masala.

This stage is crucial—cook until the masala is well-roasted and fragrant, indicating the spices are perfectly blended.

Step 5 — Incorporate the Paneer

Add the crumbled paneer to the masala and mix gently. Cook for 2–3 minutes on low heat, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors without becoming dry.

Avoid overcooking; the paneer should remain soft and moist. If it feels dry, sprinkle a tablespoon of water or milk.

Step 6 — Add Finishing Touches

Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala and 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh coriander leaves. Mix well and cook for another minute.

Step 7 — Check Seasoning and Serve Hot

Taste and adjust salt or spices if needed. Your quick and tasty Masaledar Paneer Bhurji is ready to be served hot with roti, paratha, or bread.

Nutritional Information

Calories	280 kcal
Protein	18 g
Carbohydrates	10 g
Fat	20 g
Fiber	2 g
Sodium	450 mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Tofu for Paneer — Use crumbled firm tofu for a dairy-free, high-protein alternative with a similar texture.
• Chicken or Turkey — Swap paneer with minced chicken or turkey for a leaner protein option.
• Cauliflower Rice — Replace some paneer with riced cauliflower to lower carbs and calories.
• Greek Yogurt instead of Cream — Use plain Greek yogurt for a protein boost and reduced fat content.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce or Coconut Aminos — Add umami flavor while significantly cutting sodium levels.
• Nutritional Yeast — Sprinkle in for a cheesy flavor in dairy-free or vegan versions.
• Zucchini or Bell Peppers — Bulk up the dish with extra vegetables for more fiber and nutrients.
• Avocado Oil or Olive Oil — Use these healthier oils instead of butter or ghee for cooking.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this Masaledar Paneer Bhurji with hot, buttered roti or paratha for a classic, comforting meal.
• Serve it as a protein-packed, spicy filling for wraps, sandwiches, or as a topping for toasted bread.
• Enjoy it as a quick and tasty breakfast or brunch dish alongside pav or dinner rolls.
• For a low-carb option, serve this quick paneer bhurji with a fresh, crisp green salad.
• Make it a complete meal by pairing it with jeera rice or simple dal for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to enhance the flavors.
• Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or busy weeknights when you need something delicious and fast.

This versatile Masaledar Paneer Bhurji is a crowd-pleaser that fits seamlessly into any meal plan, offering a quick, tasty, and satisfying experience every time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold paneer straight from the fridge. Fix: Let it come to room temperature for better texture and flavor absorption.
• Mistake: Overcooking the onions and tomatoes into a paste. Fix: Sauté until just soft to retain a bit of texture in the final dish.
• Mistake: Adding all spices at once, leading to a bitter taste. Fix: Bloom whole spices in oil first, then add powdered spices later.
• Mistake: Using high heat throughout, which can burn the spices. Fix: Cook on medium heat to develop flavors without scorching.
• Mistake: Crumbling the paneer too finely, making it mushy. Fix: Grate or crumble it coarsely for a satisfying, grainy texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves). Fix: Crush and add it at the end for an authentic, aromatic finish.
• Mistake: Not adjusting salt and spices after adding paneer. Fix: Paneer is bland, so always taste and season again at the final stage.
• Mistake: Rushing the cooking process for a quick recipe. Fix: Allow the masala to cook properly for a truly masaledar (spicy) flavor.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool completely, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat in a pan or microwave until steaming hot, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Always ensure your Masaledar Paneer Bhurji is stored properly to maintain its delicious flavor and quality.

Conclusion

This Masaledar Paneer Bhurji is a perfect quick meal that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. Try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below. For more delicious options, explore Butter Chicken or Let’s try High Protein Chicken Tikka Recipe in Air Fryer🫣#shorts #viral #trending #youtubeshorts #yt.

Print

FAQs

What is the best way to crumble paneer for Masaledar Paneer Bhurji?

Grate firm paneer using a box grater or crumble it with your fingers for a fine, even texture. This helps the paneer absorb the spices better, making your Masaledar Paneer Bhurji more flavorful.

Can I make Masaledar Paneer Bhurji ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to refresh the Masaledar Paneer Bhurji’s consistency.

How can I make this recipe spicier or milder?

Adjust the number of green chilies and red chili powder to suit your taste. For a milder Masaledar Paneer Bhurji, reduce or omit these; for extra heat, add more or include a pinch of garam masala.