If you’re craving a rich, comforting curry but want to skip the onion and garlic, this paneer recipe without onion and garlic is exactly what you need. Whether you’re preparing food for a vrat (fast), following Jain cuisine, or simply prefer lighter, sattvic meals, this dish delivers all the flavor without the usual aromatics.
In this guide, you’ll find a fully detailed recipe table, step-by-step instructions, helpful variations, and cooking tips to make your paneer curry perfect every single time.
Why Make Paneer Without Onion and Garlic?
Many Indian households prefer sattvic meals for specific days or dietary choices. Even without onion and garlic, you can create a curry that is aromatic, creamy, and deeply satisfying.
This recipe is:
- Ideal for fasting (vrat) or Jain meals
- Light, easy to digest, and comforting
- Quick to prepare on busy weekdays
- Packed with traditional Indian flavors
Detailed Paneer Recipe Without Onion and Garlic
Recipe Overview
A mildly spiced, creamy tomato-based paneer curry made without onion or garlic.
Full Recipe Table
| Step | Ingredients / Instructions | Details |
| 1. Base Ingredients | Paneer – 250g (cubed) | Fresh, soft paneer works best |
| Tomatoes – 3 medium (pureed) | Forms the curry base | |
| Cashews – 10–12 | For natural creaminess | |
| Ginger – 1 inch (grated) | Adds aroma | |
| Green chillies – 1–2 (slit) | Adjust to taste | |
| 2. Spices | Cumin seeds – ½ tsp | For tempering |
| Turmeric – ¼ tsp | Color & mild earthiness | |
| Red chilli powder – 1 tsp | Adjust spice level | |
| Coriander powder – 1 tsp | Main flavor | |
| Garam masala – ½ tsp | Warmth & depth | |
| Kasuri methi – 1 tsp | Signature restaurant flavor | |
| 3. Gravy Enhancers | Ghee or oil – 2 tbsp | Use ghee for richer taste |
| Cream – 2 tbsp (optional) | Adds richness | |
| Sugar – ½ tsp | Balances tomato acidity | |
| 4. Salt & Water | Salt – to taste | Essential seasoning |
| Water – ½ to 1 cup | Adjust thickness | |
| 5. Garnish | Coriander leaves | For freshness |
| Cooking Steps | 1. Soak cashews in warm water 10 minutes. | For smooth blending |
| 2. Blend tomatoes + cashews into a paste. | Smooth consistency | |
| 3. Heat ghee, add cumin, ginger, green chilies. | Aromatic base | |
| 4. Add tomato-cashew puree & spices. | Cook 6–7 minutes | |
| 5. Add water and bring to simmer. | Forms the gravy | |
| 6. Add paneer cubes, cook 3–4 minutes. | Prevent overcooking | |
| 7. Stir in cream & kasuri methi. | Final touch | |
| 8. Garnish with coriander. | Serve hot |
How to Make Paneer Curry Without Onion and Garlic (Step-by-Step)
1. Prepare the Base
Start by soaking cashews in warm water. Blend them along with fresh tomato puree. This combo replaces the creaminess that onion normally provides.
2. Temper the Spices
Heat ghee in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them crackle. Then add ginger and green chilies. This builds aroma and depth right from the start.
3. Add the Tomato–Cashew Masala
Pour in your puree and cook it until the raw smell disappears. Add turmeric, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and salt. Stir until the ghee separates.
4. Add Water and Simmer
Thin the gravy with water. Bring it to a gentle boil and let the flavors blend beautifully.
5. Add the Paneer
Slide in the paneer cubes. Let them soak up the masala for 3–4 minutes. Overcooking makes paneer rubbery—so be gentle!
6. Finish With Flavor
Add cream (optional) and crush kasuri methi between your palms before adding it. This releases the aroma instantly.
Delicious Variations (No Onion, No Garlic)
Try these twists:
1. Paneer Butter Masala Without Onion Garlic
Uses more butter and cream for a richer finish.
2. Jain Shahi Paneer
Includes cardamom, cashews, and saffron.
3. Tomato-Based Light Curry
Add more tomatoes and skip cream entirely for a lighter option.
4. Palak Paneer Without Onion Garlic
Blend spinach puree for a vibrant green gravy.
What to Serve With This Paneer Curry
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Roti, phulka, or naan
- Jeera rice
- Steamed basmati
- Bedmi poori (for a festive feel)
Internal link suggestions:
- Link to a naan recipe, jeera rice recipe, or homemade paneer guide.
External link suggestions:
- Healthline (nutritional benefits of paneer)
- NDTV Food (Indian vegetarian recipe references)
FAQs About Paneer Recipe Without Onion and Garlic
1. Can I make this paneer curry during fasting?
Absolutely—just replace regular salt with sendha namak (rock salt).
2. What can I use instead of cashews?
Almonds (blanched) or melon seeds work well for creaminess.
3. Can I skip tomatoes?
Yes. Use curd or yogurt for a white gravy base.
4. How do I keep paneer soft?
Soak cubed paneer in warm water for 10 minutes before cooking.
5. How long does this curry stay fresh?
It keeps for 24 hours refrigerated. Avoid freezing (paneer becomes crumbly).
Conclusion: A Simple, Comforting Sattvic Paneer Dish
A paneer recipe without onion and garlic doesn’t need to be bland or boring. With the right spices and a creamy tomato-cashew base, you can create a restaurant-style curry that’s light, aromatic, and perfect for everyday meals or fasting days.
