Here’s a list of all the ingredients for **Indian Paneer Channa Masala** (also known as **Paneer Chole** or **Paneer Chana Masala**) in a SEO-friendly format with relevant keywords:
- **Paneer (Indian Cottage Cheese)**: 200-250 grams, cubed (for a rich, creamy texture and protein-packed flavor).
- **Chickpeas (Channa)**: 1 cup, soaked overnight or canned (high in fiber and essential nutrients).
- **Tomatoes**: 2-3 medium-sized, pureed (for a tangy and rich gravy base).
- **Onions**: 2 medium-sized, finely chopped (adds sweetness and depth to the dish).
- **Ginger-Garlic Paste**: 1 tablespoon (enhances flavor and aroma).
- **Green Chilies**: 1-2, finely chopped (adjust for spice level).
- **Cooking Oil or Ghee**: 2-3 tablespoons (for authentic Indian flavor).
- **Cumin Seeds (Jeera)**: 1 teaspoon (adds a nutty aroma).
- **Turmeric Powder (Haldi)**: 1/2 teaspoon (for color and health benefits).
- **Coriander Powder (Dhania)**: 1 tablespoon (earthy and aromatic).
- **Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini)**: 1 small piece (for a hint of sweetness).
- **Cardamom Pods (Elaichi)**: 2-3 pods (adds a floral note).
This **Paneer Channa Masala** recipe is perfect for a hearty, protein-rich Indian meal. It’s packed with **authentic Indian spices**, **paneer cheese**, and **chickpeas**, making it a flavorful and nutritious dish. Enjoy it with **naan**, **roti**, or **steamed rice** for a complete meal!
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Steps
# How to Make Indian Cheese Paneer Channa Masala: A Step-by-Step Guide
Paneer Channa Masala, also known as **Paneer Chole**, is a delicious and protein-rich North Indian dish that combines soft paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with spicy chickpeas (chana). This vegetarian recipe is perfect for lunch, dinner, or special occasions. Follow these detailed steps to create a flavorful and authentic Paneer Channa Masala at home.
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## **Ingredients for Paneer Channa Masala**
*(Serves 4)*
### For the Chole (Chickpea Curry):
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cups canned chickpeas)
- 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
- 2 medium-sized tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon amchur (dry mango powder)
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
### For the Paneer:
- 200 grams paneer, cubed
- 1 tablespoon oil or ghee for frying
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas**
1. If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in water. Drain and pressure cook with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt for 4-5 whistles until soft. If using canned chickpeas, rinse and drain them.
2. Reserve 1 cup of the chickpea cooking water for the gravy.
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### **Step 2: Fry the Paneer**
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil or ghee in a pan.
2. Lightly fry the paneer cubes until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
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### **Step 3: Prepare the Gravy**
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a large pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for 2 minutes.
4. Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
5. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
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### **Step 4: Cook the Chickpeas**
1. Add the cooked chickpeas to the gravy and mix well.
2. Pour in the reserved chickpea cooking water and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Add amchur powder and garam masala. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.
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### **Step 5: Add Paneer**
1. Gently add the fried paneer cubes to the chickpea curry.
2. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the paneer to absorb the flavors.
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### **Step 6: Garnish and Serve**
1. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
2. Serve hot with **naan**, **roti**, or **steamed rice**.
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## **Tips for Perfect Paneer Channa Masala**
- Use fresh paneer for the best texture.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.
- For a richer flavor, add a dollop of butter or cream before serving.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
Paneer Channa Masala is a **protein-packed**, **flavorful**, and **nutritious** dish that’s perfect for vegetarians. The combination of soft paneer and spicy chickpeas makes it a crowd-pleaser. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of authentic Indian cuisine at home!
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**Keywords**: Paneer Channa Masala, Paneer Chole recipe, Indian cottage cheese recipe, chickpea curry, vegetarian Indian dishes, protein-rich Indian food, homemade paneer channa.
By following these steps, you’ll create a restaurant-style Paneer Channa Masala that’s sure to impress your family and friends!