Lentil Cottage Cheese Curry
This curry features soft lentils simmered with warm Indian spices and enriched with chunks of cottage cheese (paneer), creating a filling, nutritious, and balanced vegetarian meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
1/2 cup split red lentils (masoor dal) or yellow lentils (moong dal)
1 1/2 cups water
1 cup cottage cheese (paneer), cubed
1 tbsp oil or ghee
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
1 medium tomato, finely chopped
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp garam masala
1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook Lentils:Rinse lentils well. In a pot, combine with water and a pinch of turmeric. Simmer until soft (15–20 min), or pressure cook for 2 whistles.
2. Make the Masala Base:In a pan, heat oil/ghee. Add cumin seeds. Once they sizzle, saute onions until golden.Add ginger-garlic paste and cook 1 min. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft. Stir in turmeric, coriander, garam masala, chili powder, and salt.
3. Add Lentils & Paneer:Pour cooked lentils into the masala. Mix well and simmer 5 minutes. Gently stir in paneer cubes and cook for 3–5 minutes more.
4. Serve:Garnish with cilantro. Serve hot with roti, naan, rice, or quinoa.
Nutritional Info
Calories :240 kcal
Protein 18g
Carbs: 20g
Fat :10g
Fiber: 6g
Notes & Tips
Vegan Option: Use tofu instead of paneer.
Creamy Touch: Add 1 tbsp yogurt or coconut milk at the end for richness.
Meal Prep: Keeps well for 3–4 days in the fridge.