Stuffed Bhindi With Paneer: A Delicious North Indian Delight
Stuffed Bhindi With Paneer is a mouthwatering North Indian dish that combines the goodness of okra (bhindi) with the rich and creamy flavor of paneer, making it a perfect vegetarian choice for lunch or dinner. This recipe not only showcases the vibrant colors and flavors of Indian cuisine but also offers a delightful experience for your taste buds. Let’s explore how to prepare this delectable dish step by step.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Okra (Bhindi) | 250 grams |
| Oil | As needed |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Tomato (grated) | 1 medium |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 2 cloves |
| Cumin seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Heeng) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Cottage cheese (Paneer, crumbled) | 1 cup |
| Coriander powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mango powder (Amchur) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | For garnish |
| Chaat masala | For garnish |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 300 |
| Protein | Approx. 10g |
| Carbohydrates | Approx. 25g |
| Fats | Approx. 15g |
| Fiber | Approx. 5g |
| Sodium | Varies with salt |
Preparation Time
| Time Type | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
Servings
This recipe serves 2 people.
Instructions
-
Prepare the Okra: Begin by thoroughly washing the okra (bhindi) under running water. After rinsing, dry them well using a kitchen towel to remove any moisture. Trim off the stems from both ends of the okra, and then carefully make a vertical slit down the length of each okra without cutting it all the way through. Remove the seeds and set them aside for later.
-
Make the Paneer Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled paneer, finely chopped onions, grated tomato, ginger, garlic, cumin seeds, coriander powder, mango powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix these ingredients well to create a flavorful filling. If you have leftover stuffing masala, set it aside to use later.
-
Stuff the Okra: Generously fill each slit okra with the paneer mixture, ensuring that each piece is well-stuffed. Once all the okra is filled, set them aside for a moment.
-
Preheat the Microwave: Grease a microwave-safe tray with a little oil. Arrange the stuffed okra in a single layer on the tray. Microwave the okra for about 3 to 4 minutes to soften them slightly before cooking on the stovetop.
-
Cook the Stuffed Bhindi: In a large kadhai or frying pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and asafoetida, letting them sizzle for a few seconds. Then, add the chopped onion, ginger, and garlic, sautéing until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
-
Add Tomatoes: Stir in the grated tomatoes and cook on high heat until the tomatoes are softened and their juices evaporate. If you have any leftover stuffing masala, mix it in at this stage for added flavor.
-
Combine with Okra: Once the tomatoes are cooked down, carefully add the stuffed okra to the kadhai. Gently toss to coat the okra with the masala, ensuring they are well-integrated. Cover the kadhai with a lid and cook until the okra is tender, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
-
Finish and Serve: After the bhindi is cooked and softened, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over it and sprinkle with chaat masala for an extra zing. Serve the Paneer Stuffed Bhindi hot with Gujarati kadhi and soft roti for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
- For an added crunch, you can sauté some peanuts or cashews and mix them into the stuffing.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by modifying the amount of red chili powder and chaat masala.
- Leftover stuffed bhindi can be refrigerated and reheated for a quick meal.
Conclusion
Stuffed Bhindi With Paneer is a versatile dish that showcases the rich flavors of Indian spices and ingredients, making it a delightful addition to your lunch or dinner table. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of this North Indian delicacy with your favorite sides and relish the burst of flavors with every bite!
