Methi Malai Paneer Recipe: A Creamy Delight of North India
Methi Malai Paneer is a beloved North Indian dish known for its delicate balance of flavors, making it a hit at every gathering. This rich, creamy dish showcases the unique taste of fresh fenugreek leaves (methi) combined with the smoothness of homemade paneer, making it an irresistible treat for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. The blend of aromatic spices and the velvety texture of the gravy makes it a perfect addition to any lunch or dinner spread. Whether you’re entertaining guests or preparing a family meal, Methi Malai Paneer will undoubtedly win hearts with its delightful, flavorful appeal.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Methi Leaves (Fenugreek Leaves), chopped | 1 cup |
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese), diced | 100 grams |
| Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) | 1 teaspoon |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh cream | 2 tablespoons |
| Butter (Salted), or ghee/oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Bay leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
For Masala to Grind:
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onions, sliced | 2 |
| Garlic cloves | 4 |
| Tomatoes | 2 |
| Green Chillies | 2 |
| Cashew nuts, soaked in water | 10 |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Cashews:
Begin by soaking the cashew nuts in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes to soften them. Once soaked, set them aside. -
Cook Methi Leaves:
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter (or ghee/oil) in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add the chopped fenugreek leaves (methi) and a pinch of salt. Sauté the leaves until the raw smell fades and they soften. -
Prepare the Masala:
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if necessary, then toss in the sliced onions, garlic cloves, and green chillies. Sauté the mixture until the raw smell of the garlic disappears and the onions turn translucent. Add the chopped tomatoes and salt, and cook until the tomatoes soften and turn mushy. -
Grind the Masala Paste:
Once the onion-tomato mixture has cooled, grind it into a smooth paste in a blender, adding the soaked cashews for a creamy texture. -
Cooking the Gravy:
In a separate pan, heat the remaining butter or ghee and add the bay leaf and cumin seeds. Let them sizzle for about 15 seconds to release their aromatic oils. -
Combine with Ground Masala:
Add the freshly ground onion-tomato-cashew paste to the pan, cooking it for 2 to 4 minutes, allowing it to release its oils and deepen in flavor. -
Add Spices:
Stir in the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, kasuri methi, and salt. Sauté everything together for a minute or two. -
Incorporate Methi and Paneer:
Add the cooked methi leaves to the pan, followed by the diced paneer cubes, milk, and a little water to achieve your desired curry consistency. Stir well and cover the pan. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally. -
Finish the Dish:
Once the curry comes to a boil and the flavors are well-mixed, add fresh cream and garam masala powder. Cook for another minute and then turn off the heat. -
Serve:
Your Methi Malai Paneer is ready to serve! Enjoy it with Whole Wheat Lachha Paratha, Burani Raita, and a refreshing Kachumber Salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Paneer: You can use store-bought paneer or homemade paneer for this dish. If you prefer a softer texture, you can gently fry the paneer cubes before adding them to the curry.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the cream and paneer with coconut milk and tofu for a vegan-friendly version.
- Consistency: Adjust the amount of water and milk based on your desired gravy consistency. If you like a thicker gravy, reduce the water and increase the milk or cream.
- Spiciness: Adjust the number of green chillies and red chilli powder according to your spice preference.
This Methi Malai Paneer recipe is an ideal comfort food that pairs perfectly with flatbreads, rice, or even as a side dish to your main course. Whether for a casual lunch or a festive gathering, this dish brings the warmth and richness of North Indian cuisine right to your table.
