Manipuri Style Sana Thongpa: Paneer and Green Beans in Milk Gravy
Welcome to a delightful culinary experience from the Northeastern region of India, where the rich flavors and unique ingredients come together in the comforting dish known as Sana Thongpa. This recipe features succulent paneer and vibrant green beans simmered in a luscious milk gravy, making it a perfect dish for a leisurely lunch or a special weekend brunch. Let’s embark on this flavorful journey, embracing the essence of Manipuri cuisine.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 100 grams, cubed |
| Green Beans (French Beans) | 1 cup, chopped |
| Onion | 1, chopped |
| Ginger Garlic Paste | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 2 sprigs |
| Salt | To taste |
| Mustard Oil | For cooking |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 120 |
| Protein | 8 grams |
| Fat | 7 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 10 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 grams |
| Calcium | 150 mg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 5 |
| Cooking | 15 |
| Total | 20 |
Servings
- 4 servings
Cuisine
- North East India Recipes
Course
- Lunch
Diet
- Vegetarian
Instructions
To begin crafting this exquisite Manipuri Style Sana Thongpa, heat a generous drizzle of mustard oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cumin seeds and allow them to crackle, releasing their earthy aroma into the air. This step sets the stage for the layers of flavor to come.
Next, incorporate the chopped onions along with the ginger garlic paste into the skillet, stirring well to ensure the ingredients meld together beautifully. Sauté the mixture until the onions become a rich golden brown, a process that takes about 3-4 minutes and infuses the oil with a sweet, aromatic quality.
Once the onions are perfectly caramelized, introduce the chopped green beans and the cubed paneer to the skillet. Stir everything together and sauté until the beans are tender yet still crisp, maintaining their vibrant green color, which typically takes around 5-7 minutes.
With the vegetables cooked to perfection, it’s time to add the turmeric powder and salt, giving the dish its signature warm hue and flavor. Pour in the milk, stirring gently to combine all the ingredients. Allow the Sana Thongpa to simmer for a few seconds, letting the flavors meld together in a harmonious blend.
Finally, just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves over the dish, adding a touch of freshness that brightens the overall flavor profile. The Manipuri Style Sana Thongpa is now ready to be enjoyed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting paneer and green bean dish alongside traditional Indian breads such as puri or Matar Ki Puri, making for a delightful and hearty weekend brunch that embodies the warmth and hospitality of Manipuri cuisine.
This Sana Thongpa not only satisfies the taste buds but also warms the heart, showcasing the beauty of North East Indian cooking. Enjoy this lovely dish with family and friends, creating memories that linger long after the last bite.
As you savor the flavors of this Manipuri Style Sana Thongpa, you’ll appreciate the unique blend of ingredients and the cultural heritage they represent, reminding us that food is not just sustenance but a celebration of tradition and love.
