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gobi paneer low carb, high protein dinner recipe ready in 30 minutes

Gobi Paneer (Low Carb, High Protein)

Jyoti Behrani
A wholesome, protein-rich Indian dry sabzi with tender cauliflower florets and golden paneer, tempered in mustard oil with aromatic whole spices.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine Indian, North Indian
Servings 3
Calories 310 kcal

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

Stovetop Gobi Paneer Sabzi

  • Heat mustard oil in a pan until it reaches its smoking point. Reduce the heat slightly.
  • Add bay leaf, black cardamom, cumin seeds, and asafoetida. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped ginger and green chilies and sauté for 30 seconds.
  • Stir in turmeric powder, followed by the cauliflower florets. Mix well to coat the cauliflower with the spices. Cook on high heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Add salt and cook on high heat for 2-3 minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
  • Add coriander powder, amchur, and red chili powder. Mix well and cook on medium-high heat until the cauliflower is tender but still has a slight bite, stirring occasionally.
  • In a separate pan, heat a little oil and lightly sauté the paneer cubes until golden. Add the paneer to the cauliflower mixture.
  • Cook for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together.
  • Finish with garam masala and fresh cilantro. Mix gently and serve hot.

Air Fryer Gobi Paneer

  • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  • Heat mustard oil in a small pan until it begins to smoke lightly. Reduce the heat and add the bay leaf, black cardamom, cumin seeds, and hing. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped ginger and green chilies and sauté for 30 seconds.
  • Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Stir quickly and turn off the heat.
  • Place the cauliflower florets in a large bowl. Pour the tempered mustard oil and spice mixture over the cauliflower, add salt to taste, and toss until evenly coated.
  • Transfer the cauliflower to the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking.
  • Add the paneer cubes and amchur powder. Toss gently and continue air frying for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender with lightly crisp edges and the paneer is golden.
  • Sprinkle garam masala over the gobi paneer and toss gently.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Notes

Low carb tips: Cauliflower is naturally very low in carbs (~5g per 100g). Paneer adds ~20g protein per 100g with minimal carbs, a perfect combo.
Crispy paneer option: Pan-fry the paneer cubes separately in a little mustard oil until golden on all sides before adding to the sabzi, for extra texture and flavor.
Don't overcook the gobi: Slightly firm florets hold up better and keep the carb count lower (less starch released). Aim for tender-crisp.
Mustard oil tip: Always smoke mustard oil to the point it lightens in color before cooking, this is key for authentic flavor and removes its bitterness.
Serving: Pairs beautifully with roti, or enjoy as-is for a keto-friendly, high-protein meal.
Air Fryer:
  • For extra-crispy paneer, air fry the paneer separately for 3 to 4 minutes before adding it to the cauliflower.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.
  • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving adds a bright, fresh flavor.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Gobi Paneer (Low Carb, High Protein)
Amount per Serving
Calories
310
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
36
g
55
%
Saturated Fat
 
14
g
88
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
3
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
9
g
Cholesterol
 
55
mg
18
%
Sodium
 
947
mg
41
%
Potassium
 
463
mg
13
%
Carbohydrates
 
8
g
3
%
Fiber
 
5
g
21
%
Sugar
 
4
g
4
%
Protein
 
18
g
36
%
Vitamin A
 
171
IU
3
%
Vitamin C
 
69
mg
84
%
Calcium
 
453
mg
45
%
Iron
 
2
mg
11
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Disclaimer

Nutrition values are my best estimates. If you rely on them for your diet, use your preferred nutrition calculator.

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