Celebrity chef and MasterChef India judge Kunal Kapur has shared a comforting Paneer Shimla Mirch recipe that celebrates the simplicity of everyday home cooking. Shared through his official Instagram account, the dish combines soft paneer, crisp capsicum, onions, tomatoes, and freshly ground spices to create a flavorful meal that’s ideal for both lunch and dinner.

Describing the recipe, Kapur wrote that it is one of those dependable homemade dishes that pairs beautifully with hot rotis, parathas, or even a serving of dal and rice.

If you’re looking for a wholesome vegetarian meal that’s easy to prepare yet packed with flavor, here’s a step-by-step guide inspired by the chef’s recipe.

Ingredients

For Marinating the Paneer

• 400 grams paneer, cut into medium-sized cubes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chilli powder

For the Masala

• 2 teaspoons cumin seeds
• 1½ tablespoons coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
• 5 tablespoons mustard oil
• 3 dried red chillies
• 1 tablespoon garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger, finely chopped
• 1–2 green chillies, finely chopped
• 1 cup onion, finely chopped
• ¾ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 teaspoons Kashmiri chilli powder
• 1½ tablespoons coriander powder
• 1 tablespoon Kitchen King masala
• 5 tomatoes (pureed)
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• Salt to taste

Vegetables

• 1 medium capsicum, cut into large pieces
• 1 large onion, cut into chunks
• 1 medium tomato, cut into chunks

Finishing Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons mustard oil
• ½ cup water (or as needed)
• A large pinch of kasuri methi
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• A splash of water for finishing

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Marinate the Paneer

Place the paneer cubes in a bowl and season them with salt, turmeric, and red chilli powder.

Mix gently until the cubes are evenly coated and let them rest while preparing the masala.

Step 2: Prepare the Spice Blend

Coarsely crush the cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and black peppercorns using a mortar and pestle.

This freshly ground spice mixture adds depth and aroma to the dish.

Step 3: Cook the Masala

Heat mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai.

Break the dried red chillies into smaller pieces and add them to the hot oil along with the crushed spice blend.

Once aromatic, stir in the chopped garlic, ginger, green chillies, and onions.

Cook over medium-high heat until the onions soften.

Now add:

• Turmeric powder
• Kashmiri chilli powder
• Coriander powder
• Kitchen King masala

Mix well before adding the chopped tomatoes.

Season with salt and cook for about two minutes.

Pour in the tomato puree and continue cooking until the masala thickens and the oil begins to separate from the sides.

If needed, add a little water to maintain a smooth consistency.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables and Paneer

In a separate pan, heat the remaining mustard oil.

Add the capsicum, onion, and tomato pieces.

Season lightly with salt and stir-fry for about a minute so the vegetables remain slightly crisp.

Add the marinated paneer and gently toss everything together for another 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Transfer the sautéed paneer and vegetables into the prepared masala.

Sprinkle kasuri methi and freshly chopped coriander.

Add a splash of water if required, mix gently, cover the pan, and cook on low heat for 5–7 minutes to allow the flavors to come together.

Finish with another sprinkle of fresh coriander before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Paneer Shimla Mirch pairs well with:

• Fresh phulka or chapati
• Butter roti
• Lachha paratha
• Jeera rice
• Steamed rice
• Dal and rice
• Cucumber raita
• Mint chutney

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh, soft paneer for a tender texture.
• Avoid overcooking the capsicum so it retains its natural crunch.
• Freshly crushed whole spices provide a richer aroma than pre-ground spices.
• Mustard oil lends a distinctive North Indian flavor; heat it well before cooking to mellow its sharpness.
• Add kasuri methi at the end to preserve its fragrance.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Unlike many restaurant-style paneer recipes that rely on cream or butter, this version builds flavor through freshly ground spices, tomatoes, mustard oil, and aromatic herbs. The combination of soft paneer and lightly sautéed vegetables creates a satisfying dish that’s both hearty and vibrant.

It’s an excellent option for everyday home cooking as well as special family meals.