Methi Paneer Bhurji in Creamy Gravy Recipe
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Description
Methi Paneer Bhurji in Creamy Gravy is a delectable North Indian dish that combines the rich flavors of fresh fenugreek leaves (methi) with soft, crumbled paneer in a creamy tomato gravy. The subtle bitterness of the fenugreek perfectly balances the richness of the gravy, creating a dish that is both savory and comforting. Ideal for a hearty lunch, this dish is packed with protein and full of flavor, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner repertoire. Serve it with soft phulkas or steamed rice for a wholesome meal.
Ingredients
| For Gravy | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Homemade tomato puree | 1 cup |
| Onion (roughly chopped) | 1 large |
| Garlic (cloves) | 2 cloves |
| Ginger (1-inch piece) | 1-inch |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | For cooking |
| For Paneer Bhurji | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh cream | 2 tablespoons |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 large |
| Green chilies (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Ginger (grated) | 1-inch |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum) (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Tomato (finely chopped) | 1 large |
| Methi leaves (Fenugreek leaves, finely chopped) | 3/4 cup |
| Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) | 2 teaspoons |
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese, crumbled) | 200 grams |
| Salt | To taste |
| Red chili powder | To taste |
| Oil | For cooking |
| Coriander leaves (Dhania, finely chopped) | 4 sprigs |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Serves: 4
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients
- Begin by prepping all the ingredients. Make the homemade tomato puree and crumble the homemade paneer. Set both aside.
- Finely chop the onions, ginger, garlic, green chilies, and green bell pepper. Chop the fresh methi leaves and coriander leaves as well.
-
Make the Gravy
- Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the roughly chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté them until the onions are browned and caramelized.
- Once the onions are caramelized, remove the pan from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Then, grind the mixture into a smooth paste using a small jar or food processor.
- In the same pan, add a little more oil and return the onion paste. Turn the heat back on to medium and sauté the paste for a few seconds.
- Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala powder. Stir to combine and let the spices cook for a minute.
- Pour in the homemade tomato puree, stir well, and bring it to a gentle boil. If you’d like, add a tablespoon of butter for extra richness.
- Season with salt to taste and adjust the spices. Stir in the fresh cream and simmer the gravy for a few more minutes before turning off the heat. Set it aside.
-
Prepare the Paneer Bhurji
- In a separate heavy-bottomed pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. Allow the seeds to crackle.
- Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, green chilies, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onions turn soft and golden brown.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, and the fresh methi leaves. Stir well and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the methi wilts down and softens.
- Sprinkle in the kasuri methi and mix everything together.
- Stir in the crumbled paneer, followed by salt and red chili powder. Combine the ingredients well and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
-
Combine the Gravy and Bhurji
- Once the paneer bhurji is ready, add it to the prepared creamy tomato gravy. Stir gently to combine the two.
- Let the dish come to a brisk boil, then check the seasoning and adjust the salt and spices to suit your taste.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.
-
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the Methi Paneer Bhurji in creamy gravy hot, accompanied by soft phulkas, naan, or steamed rice.
- For a wholesome and satisfying meal, pair it with a light summer lettuce salad or raita.
Tips & Variations
- Paneer Variations: You can use store-bought paneer or homemade paneer for this recipe, depending on what’s convenient for you. Homemade paneer gives a fresher taste.
- Adjust Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder according to your spice preference.
- Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like peas or carrots to the paneer bhurji for added texture and nutrition.
- Butter for Richness: For a richer taste, feel free to add more fresh cream or a bit of butter while preparing the gravy.
Methi Paneer Bhurji in Creamy Gravy is a flavorful and satisfying dish, perfect for lunch or dinner. The combination of paneer and fenugreek leaves, cooked in a creamy, aromatic tomato gravy, offers a delightful balance of tastes. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and vibrant textures. Enjoy!
