Moringa Halloumi Masala (Paneer Substitute)
Looking for a healthy, vegetarian Indian dish packed with flavor and nutrition? This Indian-style Moringa Masala is made with halloumi (a delicious substitute for paneer) and infused with the power of moringa powder (sahjan powder). A comforting *sabzi* perfect for a home-cooked meal and one of many easy ways to add moringa to your diet.
Recipe Quick Look
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2-3
- Cuisine: Indian
- Course: Main Course
Why You’ll Love This Moringa Halloumi Masala
- Made with moringa powder – a fantastic superfood known for boosting energy, immunity, and digestion.
- A flavorful twist on paneer masala using halloumi, which holds its shape and adds a rich, slightly salty taste.
- Full of traditional Indian spices like cumin, garam masala, and curry powder.
- Vegetarian, iron-rich, and quick to prepare – perfect for a weeknight healthy Indian curry.
- Ideal with chapati, paratha, or rice for a full Indian meal. Explore more moringa recipes on our site!
Watch the Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Oil (Mustard or Sunflower recommended)
- 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
- 1 large Onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 inch Fresh Ginger (grated)
- 3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
- 2 medium Tomatoes (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp Curry Powder
- ½ tsp Smoked Paprika (optional)
- Salt to taste
- 200g Halloumi (cubed) – or substitute with Paneer
- 1 tbsp Oil (for frying halloumi/paneer, optional)
- 1 tsp Moringa Powder (sahjan powder)
- ½ tsp Garam Masala
- Juice of ½ Lemon
- Fresh Coriander Leaves (for garnish – optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Base: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a kadhai or pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle (about 30 seconds). Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the grated ginger and minced garlic. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly.
- Cook the Masala: Add the chopped tomatoes, curry powder, smoked paprika (if using), and salt. Mix well. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and break down, and the masala thickens and starts releasing oil from the sides (about 5-6 minutes).
- Prepare the Halloumi or Paneer: While the masala cooks, you can prepare the halloumi/paneer. *Optional step for better texture:* Heat 1 tbsp oil in a separate small pan. Lightly fry the halloumi or paneer cubes until golden brown on all sides. Alternatively, add the raw cubes directly to the masala in the next step.
- Combine and Add Moringa: Add the fried (or raw) halloumi/paneer cubes to the cooked masala. Mix gently to coat. Sprinkle in the moringa powder and garam masala. Stir well to combine. Add a splash of water (2-3 tbsp) if the masala seems too dry. Simmer on low heat for 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the moringa to cook gently.
- Finish and Serve: Turn off the heat. Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and stir. Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves, if desired. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with hot phulka, roti, paratha, jeera rice, or healthier options like millet rotis.
- Add a side of cooling raita or tangy achar (Indian pickle) for a complete Indian thali experience.
- Makes a great filling for wraps or packed in lunchboxes.
Health Benefits Highlights
- Source of Iron & Vitamin C – Moringa powder contributes significantly to the iron content, supporting energy levels and immunity. Learn about the 10 surprising benefits of moringa!
- Vegetarian Protein & Calcium – Halloumi or paneer provide vegetarian protein and essential calcium.
- Rich in Antioxidants – Spices like garlic and the powerful compounds in moringa contribute antioxidant benefits.
- Supports Blood Sugar Balance – Moringa is used in Ayurveda, and studies explore its role in wellness areas like blood sugar balance.
Substitutions & Tips
- Using Paneer: This dish works beautifully with paneer if you prefer it or have it on hand. Follow the same instructions.
- Make it Vegan: Substitute halloumi/paneer with firm or extra-firm tofu (press and fry as per Step 4) or even roasted vegetables like cauliflower or potatoes. Ensure your oil is plant-based.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add spinach (towards the end), green peas (with tomatoes), or bell peppers (capsicum - sauté with onions) for extra nutrients and texture.
- Adjust Spice: Add green chilies along with ginger/garlic or a pinch of red chili powder with the other spices for more heat.
- Moringa Powder Handling: Add moringa powder towards the end of cooking and simmer gently. Avoid prolonged high heat to preserve its nutrients and prevent bitterness.
Try More Moringa Recipes:
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