Paneer Stuffed Bhindi in Ajwain Tomato Gravy Recipe
Description:
Paneer Stuffed Bhindi in Ajwain Tomato Gravy is a delicious and aromatic North Indian dish that brings together the goodness of fresh okra (bhindi) and homemade paneer (cottage cheese) stuffed with flavorful spices. The stuffed bhindis are cooked to perfection, then gently simmered in a tangy, aromatic tomato gravy infused with ajwain (carom seeds). This comforting and healthy vegetarian dish is perfect for a hearty lunch when served with hot phulkas and dal.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bhindi (Lady Finger/Okra) | 250 grams |
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 1 cup (crumbled) |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Chaat Masala Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Onion | 1, chopped |
| Ginger | 1/2 teaspoon, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 1/2 teaspoon, finely chopped |
| Ajwain (Carom Seeds) | 1 teaspoon |
| Green Chilli | 1, slit |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 2 teaspoons |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Homemade Tomato Puree | 2 cups |
| Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) | For garnish |
| Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 3-4
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Bhindi (Okra):
Wash the bhindi (okra) thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean cloth. Cut off the stems and make a vertical slit along the length of each okra, taking care not to cut them in half. -
Make the Paneer Stuffing:
In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled paneer with red chilli powder, coriander powder, chaat masala powder, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined. -
Stuff the Bhindi:
Carefully stuff the prepared paneer mixture into each bhindi through the slits. You can use about 1/2 teaspoon of the paneer mixture per okra. Set aside the stuffed bhindis. -
Cook the Stuffed Bhindi:
Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a wok or pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the stuffed bhindi and cook them covered, stirring occasionally, until they are nearly cooked. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside. -
Prepare the Gravy:
In the same wok, add the remaining oil. Once it heats up, add the ajwain (carom seeds) and let them sizzle for a few seconds. Then, add the chopped onions and slit green chilli. Sauté for a minute, then add the finely chopped ginger and garlic. Stir well and sauté until the raw smell of the ginger disappears, and the garlic turns golden brown. -
Add the Spices and Tomato Puree:
Add the red chilli powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala powder to the wok. Quickly add the homemade tomato puree and stir well. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the tomato puree thickens and starts to release oil from the sides, indicating that it has cooked down. -
Simmer the Gravy:
Add water to the gravy to achieve your desired consistency. Add the cooked stuffed bhindi into the gravy and mix gently. Cover the pan and let the dish simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Finish and Garnish:
Once the bhindi is tender and the gravy is well combined, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish with kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for an aromatic finish.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Paneer Stuffed Bhindi in Ajwain Tomato Gravy hot with freshly made Punjabi Dal Tadka, Phulka (Indian flatbreads), and a refreshing Red Cabbage, Carrot, Sprout, and Onion Salad on the side. The combination of these dishes creates a wholesome and satisfying meal, perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.
Tips:
- For best results, use homemade paneer, as it has a fresh and smooth texture that complements the okra well.
- You can adjust the spice levels according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of red chilli powder.
- If you’re looking for a thicker gravy, cook the tomato puree a little longer until it reaches your desired consistency before adding water.
Enjoy this comforting Paneer Stuffed Bhindi in Ajwain Tomato Gravy, a flavorful, healthy, and aromatic North Indian dish that’s bound to please your taste buds!
