Paneer Biryani Recipe
Embark on a delightful culinary journey with this exquisite Paneer Biryani, a dish that seamlessly combines aromatic basmati rice with succulent cubes of paneer, bursting with flavors from spices and herbs. Perfect for lunch or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe encapsulates the essence of Indian cuisine, making it an enticing option for any meal. Serve it alongside refreshing Mooli Raita and rich Bagara Baingan for a truly complete dining experience.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice | 2 cups |
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 250 grams (cut into cubes) |
| Onions | 2 (thinly sliced) |
| Tomatoes | 5 (finely chopped) |
| Ginger | 2 inches |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Green Chillies | 2 (slit lengthwise) |
| Red Chilli Powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cloves (Laung) | 3 |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1 inch |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds | 2 |
| Bay Leaves (Tej Patta) | 2 |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 1 teaspoon |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) | 4 sprigs (finely chopped) |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | to taste |
| Sunflower Oil | for cooking |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~450 |
| Protein | ~15g |
| Carbohydrates | ~65g |
| Fat | ~18g |
| Fiber | ~3g |
Preparation Steps
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Prep Ingredients: To commence this culinary endeavor, ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready for cooking. Rinse and wash the basmati rice thoroughly until the water runs clear, then set aside to drain.
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Make Pastes: Using a mixer grinder, blend the ginger, garlic, and green chillies into a smooth paste. Additionally, grind the cloves, cardamom, black peppercorns, and cinnamon into a fine powder and keep this spice blend aside.
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Sauté Onions: In a pressure cooker, heat ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced onions and sauté them until they turn golden brown, infusing your kitchen with delightful aromas.
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Add Ginger-Garlic Paste: Introduce the ginger-garlic paste into the cooker, stirring continuously until the raw smell dissipates and the mixture becomes fragrant.
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Cook Tomatoes: Add the finely chopped tomatoes and stir well. If the mixture appears too dry, feel free to add a little more ghee. Continue cooking until the tomatoes soften and meld with the other ingredients.
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Incorporate Spices: Once the tomatoes are adequately softened, add the bay leaves, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and the ground spice mixture. Stir well for a few minutes, allowing the spices to release their enchanting aromas.
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Combine Rice and Paneer: Add the rinsed basmati rice and chopped mint leaves to the pressure cooker. Follow this with 3 cups of water, the paneer cubes, and salt to taste. Gently stir to combine.
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Cook Under Pressure: Secure the lid on the pressure cooker. After the first whistle, reduce the heat to low and simmer for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. Then, turn off the heat, allowing the pressure to release gradually, ensuring the rice finishes cooking in the residual steam.
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Final Touches: Once the pressure has completely released, open the lid carefully. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes, then gently stir the biryani to amalgamate the rice and spices.
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Serve and Enjoy: Your delicious Paneer Biryani is now ready to serve! Present it hot with a side of refreshing Mooli Raita and the rich, flavorful Bagara Baingan for a wholesome meal. This dish also makes a delightful addition to lunchboxes or can be enjoyed as a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Cooking Tips
- For a more robust flavor, consider marinating the paneer in spices and yogurt before adding it to the biryani.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or potatoes for an extra nutritious twist.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by varying the amount of green chillies and red chilli powder.
This Paneer Biryani recipe captures the rich tapestry of Indian flavors, ensuring a fulfilling dining experience that is both satisfying and wholesome. Enjoy this beloved dish that brings warmth and joy to any table!
