Lahsuni Paneer Recipe – Garlic Flavored Paneer
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Paneer is a beloved staple in Indian cuisine, and when combined with the bold, aromatic flavors of garlic and spices, it creates a dish that is truly irresistible. The Lahsuni Paneer recipe, which translates to “Garlic Flavored Paneer,” is a quick and easy appetizer or side dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. This dish is perfect for a weekend meal when served with parathas, a flavorful Punjabi dal, and a refreshing salad. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 200 grams |
| Garlic | 10 cloves |
| Dry Red Chillies | 4 (remove seeds) |
| Vinegar | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium-sized |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Sunflower Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Leaves (for garnish) | As needed |
Instructions
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Prepare the Paneer:
- Start by thawing the paneer (if frozen) until it reaches room temperature. Cut it into small, bite-sized cubes and set aside. If you wish to make fresh paneer at home, you can follow a simple Homemade Paneer Recipe for that wholesome, homemade touch.
-
Make the Garlic-Chili Paste:
- In a blender or mixer grinder, add the peeled garlic cloves, sugar, vinegar, salt, and the dry red chillies (with seeds removed). Grind these ingredients together into a smooth paste. Add a small amount of water to help with blending, but ensure the paste remains thick and smooth.
-
Cook the Aromatic Base:
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add cumin seeds and allow them to splutter, releasing their aroma.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent and soft.
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Add the Garlic-Chili Paste:
- Pour the freshly made garlic-chili paste into the pan. Sauté the mixture well for a few minutes, stirring continuously until the raw smell of garlic fades, and the oil begins to separate from the masala. This step is crucial to ensure that the flavors blend well.
-
Cook the Paneer:
- Once the masala is well cooked, gently add the paneer cubes into the pan. Stir everything together so that the paneer is evenly coated with the garlic-chili mixture. Cook on medium heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse into the paneer without overcooking it.
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Garnish and Serve:
- Once the paneer is well coated and heated through, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish the Lahsuni Paneer with freshly chopped coriander leaves for an added burst of color and freshness.
- Serve the Lahsuni Paneer hot, straight from the pan, alongside parathas or naan, and enjoy it as a flavorful starter or side dish.
Suggested Pairings:
For a complete, hearty meal, consider serving Lahsuni Paneer with Punjabi Dal Tadka, Parathas, and a vibrant salad such as Red Cabbage, Carrot, Sprout, and Onion Salad. These pairings complement the rich, garlic-flavored paneer with a variety of textures and flavors.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 25 mg |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Potassium | 70 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Vitamin A | 150 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
| Calcium | 200 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
Cooking Tips:
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Paneer Freshness: Fresh paneer works best in this recipe as it absorbs the flavors more effectively. If using store-bought paneer, you can soak it in warm water for 10 minutes to soften it before adding it to the masala.
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Customize the Heat: If you prefer a spicier version of Lahsuni Paneer, you can keep the seeds of the dry red chillies or add an additional chili powder to the masala.
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Use Butter for Richness: For a richer and more indulgent flavor, you can replace sunflower oil with butter or ghee. It adds a luxurious depth of flavor to the dish, which pairs wonderfully with the garlic.
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Serving Options: This paneer dish is incredibly versatile and can also be served as a side dish with a main meal, as a filling for wraps, or even as a topping for pizzas for a fusion twist.
Flavor Notes:
Lahsuni Paneer is a must-try for garlic lovers. The robust flavors of garlic meld with the subtle spiciness of red chillies, while the tanginess from vinegar and sweetness from sugar provide a balanced contrast. The cumin seeds add warmth and depth, while fresh coriander adds a final flourish of brightness.
This dish is not just a crowd-pleaser, but also a personal favorite for those who enjoy bold, flavorful, and aromatic food with minimal effort in the kitchen. Pair it with your favorite breads or rice dishes for a comforting and satisfying meal.
This simple yet flavorful Lahsuni Paneer Recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen, especially when you’re in the mood for something quick, spicy, and garlicky. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for an easy weekday appetizer, this garlic-flavored paneer recipe fits the bill perfectly!
