Savoury Pancakes with Spinach & Paneer Filling
Description:
Savoury Pancakes with Spinach & Paneer Filling is a gluten-free vegetarian breakfast that’s brimming with nutrients. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as an energizing morning meal or a satisfying evening snack. What makes this breakfast so special is its blend of spiced besan (gram flour) pancakes paired with a savory filling made from sauteed spicy paneer (cottage cheese) and blanched spinach. The spices, including red chili powder, garam masala, and turmeric, bring depth and warmth to the dish, making it a guilt-free and wholesome choice. Perfect for a healthy and fulfilling breakfast, and a great pair with a refreshing Homemade Fresh Orange Juice!
Cuisine: Continental
Course: World Breakfast
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Filling
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Baby Spinach | 1 cup (tore and blanched) |
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 1 cup (cubed) |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic (Minced) | 1 teaspoon |
| Green Chillies | 2, finely chopped |
| Mustard Oil | To drizzle |
| Salt | To taste |
For the Pancake Batter
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gram Flour (Besan) | 1 cup |
| Green Chillies | 2, finely chopped |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mustard Oil | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | As required for batter |
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions
Preparing the Filling:
- Blanch the Spinach: Start by blanching the baby spinach. Place the spinach in hot water with a pinch of salt for about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Make the Paneer Filling: In a pan or skillet, heat mustard oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds. Let them crackle for a few seconds.
- Add the chopped green chillies and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic softens and releases its aroma.
- Add the cubed paneer pieces and sauté them until they turn slightly golden on all sides.
- Sprinkle in the red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Stir well to ensure the paneer is evenly coated with the spices.
- Add the blanched spinach leaves to the pan and mix thoroughly. Let it cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and blend with the spices. Remove from heat and set the mixture aside.
Preparing the Pancake Batter:
- Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the gram flour (besan), finely chopped green chillies, onion, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, mustard oil, and salt. Mix everything together well.
- Slowly start adding water, stirring continuously, to form a smooth batter. The consistency should not be too thick or too runny—it should be just right for pouring onto the pan. Whisk the batter until it is well blended and smooth.
- Cook the Pancakes: Heat a non-stick pan or skillet and drizzle a few drops of mustard oil to coat the surface.
- Once the oil is heated, pour a ladle of batter into the pan and tilt the pan to spread the batter evenly in a circular shape. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges begin to lift and the underside is golden brown.
- Flip the pancake and cook the other side until golden. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding a little oil to the pan each time.
Assembling the Pancakes:
- Place each pancake on a flat plate. Spoon the spinach and paneer filling onto the center of the pancake.
- Fold the pancake from both sides to create a neat pocket, enclosing the filling inside.
- Serve your Savoury Pancakes with Spinach & Paneer Filling warm with a side of Homemade Fresh Orange Juice for a refreshing touch.
Enjoy your wholesome and nutritious breakfast! These pancakes are not only delicious but also packed with protein and greens, making them an excellent choice for a healthy meal to kickstart your day.
