Paneer Bhurji Recipe: Paneer Bhurji is a popular Indian dish made with mashed paneer (cottage cheese), tomatoes, onions, spices, and pav bhaji masala, all cooked together on a non-stick tava. This easy and spicy preparation is beloved by Indians worldwide and pairs well with bread and parathas.
In Southern India, dry paneer bhurji is sometimes used as a stuffing for dosas, creating a delicious variation known as paneer dosa, similar to the traditional aloo-filled Masala Dosa.
The key to making fantastic paneer bhurji is using fresh cottage cheese and preparing it just before serving to prevent sogginess. Making your own paneer at home is recommended for the best results.
Paneer bhurji is not only delicious but also a healthy choice. Paneer is rich in high-quality protein and calcium, making it beneficial for weight loss. Its low-carb and high-protein content aids in slow digestion, making it suitable for diabetics. Additionally, potassium in paneer helps counter the effects of high sodium, contributing to lower blood pressure.
Here’s the Paneer Bhurji Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mashed paneer (cottage cheese)
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
- 1/2 cup finely chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp pav bhaji masala
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder (haldi)
- 1/2 tsp chilli powder
- 1 tsp finely chopped green chillies
- 1 tbsp finely chopped coriander (dhania)
- Salt to taste
Method for Paneer Bhurji Recipe:
- Heat oil on a griddle (tava) and add cumin seeds.
- Once the seeds crackle, sauté onions on high flame for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add tomatoes and 2 tbsp of water, mix well, and cook on a low flame for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Incorporate pav bhaji masala, turmeric powder, chilli powder, green chillies, and 1 tbsp of water. Mix well and cook on medium flame for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Introduce paneer, salt, coriander, and 1 tbsp of water. Mix well and cook on medium flame for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve the paneer bhurji hot.
How to Make Dry Paneer Bhurji Recipe:
- Heat oil in a griddle or a broad non-stick pan; add cumin seeds. In the dry paneer bhurji recipe, use 2 tablespoons of oil; for those concerned about health, consider cutting the oil by half. Peanut oil is recommended for its high MUFA content (around 49%).
- When cumin seeds crackle, add finely chopped onions for better mouthfeel.
- Add green chillies to the paneer bhurji mixture; mix well and sauté on medium flame for 1 to 2 minutes or until onions are translucent.
- Incorporate finely chopped tomatoes; for faster cooking, add 2 tbsp of water to prevent burning.
- Mix well and cook on medium flame for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Add pav bhaji masala; consider making it at home or use store-bought masala.
- Include turmeric powder for a vibrant color and chilli powder for a spicy kick.
- Add 1 tbsp of water to prevent masalas from burning; mix well and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Crumble paneer into small pieces for a better mouthfeel; for a healthier option, use low-fat paneer.
- Add salt and fresh coriander for a brighter taste; finally, add 1 tbsp of water.
- Mix well and cook on medium flame for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even mixing of masalas.
- Serve the dry paneer bhurji hot, accompanied by pav.
Conclusion:
Unlock the vibrant flavors of Paneer Bhurji Recipe, a dish that transcends cultural boundaries. Whether you savor it traditionally or experiment with the dry variation, this dish is a culinary journey that delights the palate.
FAQs:
Paneer Bhurji Recipe
Can I use store-bought paneer for Paneer Bhurji?
Absolutely, but making fresh paneer at home enhances the dish’s texture and flavor.
What’s the significance of pav bhaji masala in the recipe?
Pav bhaji masala adds a unique blend of spices, elevating the overall taste of Paneer Bhurji.
Is Paneer Bhurji suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it’s a vegetarian delight crafted with cottage cheese and an array of flavorful spices.
Can I adjust the spice level in Paneer Bhurji?
Certainly! Control the spice by adjusting the quantity of green chillies and chilli powder according to your preference.
What are some creative ways to serve Paneer Bhurji?
Besides bread and parathas, try stuffing it in dosas or serving it as a filling in sandwiches for a delightful twist.
