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This French Beans and Paneer sabzi is a wholesome, protein-rich twist on the classic beans and potato recipe. Fresh green beans pair perfectly with soft paneer, tossed in mild Indian spices, making it a quick, healthy, and delicious side dish for any meal.

Ingredients (Serves 4-5)
  • French beans – 250 g (trimmed and chopped into 1–1.5 inch pieces)
  • Paneer – 200 g (cut into small cubes)
  • Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
  • Tomato – 1 medium, finely chopped
  • Green chili – 1 (slit or chopped)
  • Turmeric powder – ½ tsp
  • Asafetida – a pinch
  • Salt – to taste
  • Oil – 1 tbsp
  • Special masala – 4 – 5 tsps
  • Fresh coriander leaves – for garnish

Special Masala

  • Ginger – 1 inch
  • Whole Red chilies – 6-7 (or as per taste)
  • Fresh Coconut – ¼ cup (grated or cut in small pieces)
  • Coriander powder – 1 tsp (or 2 tsp of coriander seeds)
  • Fennel seeds powder – ½ tsp (or 1 tsp of fennel seeds)
  • Fresh mint leaves – 5-6 leaves (Optional)
Protein rich french beans and paneer dish

Instructions

  1. Prepare Special Masala
    • In a mixer jar, add all ingredients listed above for the special masala
    • Grind into a coarse powder. Keep aside.
  2. Cook Beans
    • Heat oil in a kadhai/pan.
    • Add Asafetida, sauté.
    • Add chopped onion and sauté until light golden.
    • Add chopped tomatoes and green chili.
    • Add turmeric and salt. Mix well.
    • Cover the pan and cook until tomatoes are soft.
  3. Add French Beans
    • Add chopped beans, mix well with the masala.
    • Cover, and cook on medium-low heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender but not mushy.
  4. Combine with Special Masala & Paneer
    • Add the ground special masala. Mix well.
    • Add paneer cubes, mix gently so paneer doesn’t break.
    • Sprinkle 1-2 tbsp of water and mix gently, cook for another 2-3 minutes, and switch off the flame.
  5. Garnish & Serve
    • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
    • Serve hot with chapati, paratha, or as a side dish with dal–rice.

💡 Tip: If you like a richer taste, drizzle 1 tsp ghee at the end before serving — it makes the paneer more aromatic.

For a detailed step-by-step video of this recipe, visit my YouTube channel.