Asparagus With Paneer And Balsamic Butter Glaze Recipe
Description:
Asparagus With Paneer And Balsamic Butter Glaze is a tantalizing vegetarian appetizer that combines the earthy flavors of tender asparagus and roasted paneer with the rich, tangy depth of a balsamic butter glaze. Balsamic vinegar, an Italian classic known for its complex, sweet-tart profile, elevates the dish, making each bite an aromatic delight. The creamy paneer or tofu (as an alternative) perfectly complements the glaze, creating a harmonious fusion of flavors that is both satisfying and light. This recipe is perfect for a dinner gathering or an elegant appetizer to kick off a special meal.
Cuisine:
Continental
Course:
Appetizer
Diet:
Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 250 grams |
| Asparagus | 200 grams (trimmed and halved) |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, sliced |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, finely chopped |
| Ginger | 1/4 inch, peeled and grated |
| Butter (Salted) | 2 tablespoons |
| Bay Leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 leaf |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Balsamic Vinegar | 3 tablespoons |
| Brown Sugar (Demerara Sugar) | 1 tablespoon |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) | 1 sprig, roughly chopped |
| Water | 3 tablespoons |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
35 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prep the Ingredients:
- Start by chopping the vegetables. Cut the paneer into even-sized square pieces and set aside.
- Trim the asparagus and cut it into halves. Slice the red bell pepper into thin strips, and finely chop the garlic. Grate the ginger and chop the mint leaves roughly.
-
Cooking the Asparagus:
- Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the ginger, garlic, and bay leaf to the pan, sautéing for about 30 seconds until aromatic. Avoid browning the garlic and ginger to preserve the fresh flavor.
- Stir in the salted butter and brown sugar, allowing the butter to melt and the sugar to dissolve. The mixture will create a fragrant, buttery base for the glaze.
- Add the balsamic vinegar, cinnamon powder, and water, stirring to combine. Let this simmer for about a minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
-
Cook the Asparagus:
- Add the trimmed asparagus to the pan, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Allow the asparagus to cook for 6–7 minutes until it turns tender but still maintains its bright green color. Remove the asparagus from the pan and transfer it to a bowl. Set aside.
-
Roasting the Paneer and Bell Pepper:
- In the same pan, add the sliced red bell pepper, paneer cubes, mint leaves, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Cook for 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure that the paneer is roasted evenly on all sides. The paneer should become golden and slightly crispy on the outside, while remaining soft and creamy on the inside.
- Once roasted, remove from heat and set aside.
-
Assemble the Dish:
- To serve, arrange the cooked asparagus on a serving platter, followed by the roasted paneer and bell pepper mixture.
- Drizzle the remaining balsamic butter glaze over the top to enhance the flavors and create a glossy finish.
-
Serving Suggestions:
- Asparagus with Paneer and Balsamic Butter Glaze is perfect as an appetizer. Pair it with a warming Cream of Mushroom & Spring Onion Soup or a crispy Mushroom Cutlet Vegetarian Sizzler for a full, delightful meal. For added satisfaction, serve alongside Whole Wheat Rosemary Focaccia Bread to round out the dining experience.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
| Sugars | 7 g |
Tips and Variations:
- Tofu Alternative: For a lighter, dairy-free version, replace paneer with firm tofu. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cubing and roasting.
- Add More Vegetables: Try adding other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to the pan for extra flavor and texture.
- Vegan Option: Replace the butter with plant-based margarine or olive oil to make the dish vegan-friendly.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red chili flakes or a finely chopped green chili to the balsamic glaze.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
The combination of roasted paneer (or tofu) with the tangy-sweet balsamic butter glaze creates a memorable appetizer. The crispness of the asparagus, paired with the soft and creamy texture of the paneer, offers a delightful contrast, while the mint leaves add a refreshing note. This dish is not only rich in flavor but also a feast for the eyes, making it an ideal choice for your next dinner party or special occasion.
Enjoy this deliciously unique appetizer, and let the flavors transport you to a world of culinary bliss!
