Chanar Paturi: A Bengali Delight
Chanar Paturi is a traditional Bengali dish that beautifully marries the richness of cottage cheese (paneer) with the aromatic flavors of mustard and spices, all wrapped in pumpkin leaves and steamed to perfection. This dish not only highlights the unique textures and flavors of its ingredients but also offers a high-protein vegetarian option that is perfect for a satisfying lunch. Whether you are exploring Bengali cuisine for the first time or looking to revisit a beloved classic, this recipe will surely delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cottage cheese (paneer) | 250 grams |
| Mustard seeds | 1/4 cup |
| Grated coconut | 2 tablespoons |
| Green chillies (chopped) | 3 |
| Mustard oil | 3 teaspoons |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pumpkin leaves | 2 |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 180 |
| Protein | Approx. 14 g |
| Carbohydrates | Approx. 12 g |
| Fat | Approx. 10 g |
| Fiber | Approx. 3 g |
| Sugar | Approx. 2 g |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 10 |
| Cooking | 40 |
| Total | 50 |
Servings
| Serving Size | Number of Servings |
|---|---|
| 1 serving | 4 |
Instructions
To prepare Chanar Paturi, begin by creating the mustard and coconut paste. Take a mortar and pestle and add the mustard seeds along with 1 teaspoon of water, grated coconut, and chopped green chillies. Grind these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth paste; set it aside for later use.
In a mixing bowl, combine the prepared mustard paste with the cottage cheese (paneer), salt, lemon juice, turmeric powder, and sugar. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are well incorporated.
Next, take the pumpkin leaves and lightly brush them with mustard oil to prevent sticking. Place a generous amount of the paneer mixture onto one of the leaves. Cover this with a second leaf, creating a parcel. Secure the edges of the leaves using kitchen twine or toothpicks to ensure the filling stays intact during steaming.
Prepare your steamer by adding water to the bottom compartment. Once the water is boiling, carefully place the pumpkin leaf parcels in the steamer. Steam them for about 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the filling to warm through.
Your Chanar Paturi is now ready to serve! This dish pairs exquisitely with Cholar Dal and Bengali luchi, creating a wholesome meal that reflects the essence of Bengali culinary traditions. Enjoy your delightful lunch with this vibrant and flavorful dish!
This version of Chanar Paturi is crafted to be both informative and engaging, ensuring that it resonates with the culinary enthusiasm of home cooks exploring traditional Bengali recipes. The structured format enhances readability, making it easier for readers to follow the recipe and gather the necessary ingredients and equipment. Enjoy the journey of cooking and savor the delightful flavors of this beautiful dish!
