Indian cuisine is known for transforming everyday ingredients into flavorful masterpieces, and paneer do pyaza is a perfect example of this tradition. This dish celebrates the humble onion by using it generously in two forms—cooked into the gravy and added later for texture—creating layers of sweetness, aroma, and depth. Combined with soft paneer cubes and warming spices, it becomes a comforting and satisfying meal.
At Shalimar, we take pride in serving time-honored recipes that balance tradition with taste. This paneer preparation is one of those classics that never fails to please.
What Is Paneer Do Pyaza?
The term do pyaza literally means “double onion.” In this cooking style, onions are used twice—once finely chopped and slow-cooked to form the base of the gravy, and again as larger chunks added later for a slight crunch and natural sweetness.
Paneer do pyaza is a semi-gravy dish that sits beautifully between dry and curry-style preparations. It is rich without being heavy and aromatic without being overpowering, making it a favorite among paneer lovers.
This dish offers a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors:
- Soft, creamy paneer cubes
- Melt-in-the-mouth onions in the gravy
- Slightly crisp onion petals added at the end
- Warm spices that enhance rather than dominate
The sweetness of onions plays a starring role, balanced by gentle spices and the mild richness of paneer. The gravy is moderately thick, coating each cube beautifully.
Key Ingredients That Define the Dish
A traditional paneer do pyaza recipe relies on simple, high-quality ingredients:
- Fresh paneer, cut into cubes
- Onions, used in two stages
- Tomatoes or tomato puree
- Ginger-garlic paste
- Green chilies
- Spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala
- Oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
Paneer Do Pyaza Recipe: Step-by-Step Method
The cooking process begins by heating oil or ghee in a pan. Finely chopped onions are added and sautéed slowly until they turn soft and lightly golden. This step is crucial, as it builds the sweet, flavorful base of the gravy.
Paneer cubes are gently folded into the gravy, ensuring they are evenly coated. At this stage, thick onion petals are added and lightly sautéed. These onions remain slightly crisp, adding texture and freshness to the dish.
A brief simmer allows all the flavors to come together. The dish is finished with garam masala and fresh coriander, then rested for a minute before serving.
This dish is loved for its balance. The double use of onions creates complexity without heaviness, and the paneer adds richness without overpowering the palate. It appeals equally to those who enjoy mildly spiced food and those who prefer deeper flavors.
Paneer Do Pyaza at Shalimar
At Shalimar, we prepare this dish using fresh paneer and carefully selected onions to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Our chefs focus on technique—slow-cooking the gravy base and timing the second onion addition just right.
The result is a dish that is comforting, aromatic, and consistently satisfying, served with the care and attention that define our kitchen.
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Butter naan or tandoori roti
- Plain basmati rice or jeera rice
- Mild pulao
Its rich yet balanced gravy complements both breads and rice without overwhelming them.
Paneer do pyaza remains a beloved classic because it highlights how thoughtful cooking techniques can elevate simple ingredients. The double use of onions adds character, while paneer brings a gentle richness that ties everything together.
At Shalimar, we are proud to serve this traditional favorite, offering our guests a dish that reflects the heart of North Indian cuisine—warm, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.