Paneer Kolhapuri Recipe: Cottage Cheese in Maharashtrian Gravy with Kolhapuri Masala
Introduction:
Paneer Kolhapuri is a delicious and rich vegetarian dish from Maharashtra, offering a unique blend of spices and flavors. The creamy coconut-based gravy, infused with the authentic Kolhapuri masala, perfectly complements the soft and tender paneer (cottage cheese). This vibrant dish, known for its piquant heat and flavorful depth, is ideal for serving at gatherings, ensuring that your guests are treated to an unforgettable meal. Paired with Garlic Naan without yeast and a side of creamy Dal Makhani, this dish makes a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese), cubed | 200 grams |
| Ginger Garlic Paste | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Tomatoes | 3, finely chopped |
| Cashew Nuts | 12 nuts |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 tablespoon (adjust to taste) |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves, finely chopped | A few sprigs |
| Kolhapuri Masala | 1 tablespoon |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Maharashtrian
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Allergen Information:
- Dairy: Contains paneer (cottage cheese), which may cause an allergic reaction in individuals sensitive to dairy products.
- Nuts: Contains cashew nuts, which are a potential allergen for people with nut allergies.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: The ingredients used in this recipe do not contain gluten, making it safe for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
- High Protein: Paneer provides a significant amount of protein, making this dish ideal for vegetarians seeking to boost their protein intake.
Instructions:
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Preparation of Ingredients:
Begin by gathering all the necessary ingredients for the Paneer Kolhapuri recipe. Ensure that the Kolhapuri masala is ready to use and keep it handy, as this forms the base of the unique flavors. -
Making the Tomato-Cashew Nut Gravy:
- In a blender jar, add the chopped tomatoes and cashew nuts. Blend them into a smooth puree. There’s no need to add water at this stage since tomatoes release moisture naturally when blended.
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Cooking the Gravy:
- Heat oil in a kadai or wide pan on medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ginger garlic paste. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the paste is fragrant and well-cooked.
- Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. This step will enhance the sweetness of the onions and add depth to the gravy.
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Adding Spices:
- To the golden onions, add the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and salt. Stir well to incorporate the spices and cook for a minute, letting the spices release their aroma.
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Incorporating the Tomato-Cashew Puree:
- Add the prepared tomato-cashew nut puree to the pan. Stir in the Kolhapuri masala, which brings the signature fiery heat and fragrant spices to the gravy. Allow this mixture to cook on medium heat until it begins to separate from the sides of the pan, which indicates that the oil is blending with the gravy, creating a smooth consistency.
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Finalizing the Dish:
- Taste the gravy and adjust the salt or spices according to your preference.
- Once satisfied with the flavor, gently add the cubed paneer into the gravy. Use a spatula to mix the paneer into the gravy, being careful not to break the cubes.
- Let the paneer cook in the gravy for a couple of minutes to absorb the flavors and for the gravy to thicken. Once the texture looks right and the paneer is fully immersed, remove from heat.
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Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish the Paneer Kolhapuri with finely chopped coriander leaves to add a fresh, herbal note.
- Serve the dish hot with Garlic Naan Without Yeast and a creamy serving of Dal Makhani for a complete and satisfying meal.
Advice:
- If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of red chilli powder or Kolhapuri masala, as it can be quite spicy.
- For a more decadent texture, you can add a spoonful of cream towards the end of cooking, which will give the gravy a richer, velvety finish.
- Serve the dish immediately to enjoy its full flavor profile, as paneer tends to absorb the flavors best when it’s freshly cooked in the gravy.
Conclusion:
Paneer Kolhapuri offers a perfect balance of heat, spice, and richness, making it a standout dish in any meal. Its complex flavors are sure to impress, and when served with garlic naan and dal makhani, it becomes a wholesome and fulfilling treat. Whether hosting guests or simply enjoying a flavorful dinner, this Maharashtrian specialty is an excellent choice that combines authentic ingredients with irresistible flavor. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to indulge in a plateful of this vibrant, protein-packed delight!
