Creamy Paneer Kalimirch: A Spicy Black Pepper Gravy Delight
Paneer Kalimirch Recipe (Paneer in Black Pepper Flavored Gravy)
Discover the aromatic and delightful Paneer Kalimirch, a North Indian dish that showcases paneer in a rich and creamy black pepper-flavored gravy, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. This recipe is designed to impress your guests with its unique flavor profile and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 250 grams |
| Fresh Cream | 1/4 cup |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 2 teaspoons, pounded coarsely |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower Oil | For cooking |
| Onion | 1, roughly chopped |
| Cashew Nuts | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Ginger | 1 inch, peeled and chopped |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 4 cloves |
| Sunflower Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1 pinch |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 300-350 |
| Protein | 12 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 15 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 grams |
| Total Fat | 24 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 10 grams |
| Cholesterol | 40 mg |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
Preparation Time
| Time Component | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 35 minutes |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
Instructions
-
Make the Paste: Begin by preparing a smooth paste using a mixer for the onion, cashew nuts, garlic, and ginger. Once blended, transfer the paste to a bowl and set it aside for later use.
-
-
Prepare the Paneer: Cut the paneer into equal-sized square pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.
-
Grill the Paneer: Heat one tablespoon of sunflower oil in a griddle pan over medium heat. Once hot, arrange the paneer pieces on the pan. Grill the paneer until charred marks appear on one side, which should take about 5 minutes. Flip the paneer over, brush the top side with oil, and continue grilling until charred on both sides. Once done, turn off the heat and place the grilled paneer on a plate, setting it aside.
-
Prepare the Gravy: In a saucepan, heat two tablespoons of sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the prepared onion-cashew paste to the hot oil. Fry this mixture, stirring continuously to avoid sticking, until the oil begins to separate from the masala.
-
Add Cream and Milk: Once the masala is cooked, lower the heat and add the fresh cream and milk. Stir well to combine and create a smooth gravy.
-
Season the Gravy: Add salt, turmeric powder, and garam masala to the mixture. Stir everything together and let the gravy simmer for a few minutes. If the gravy is too thick, adjust the consistency by adding a little water, then allow it to simmer so the flavors meld beautifully.
-
Combine Paneer and Gravy: Carefully add the crushed black pepper and the grilled paneer pieces to the simmering gravy. Stir gently to combine all ingredients, ensuring the paneer is well-coated in the flavorful sauce. Let the gravy cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes over medium heat.
-
Garnish: For a delightful finishing touch, heat a small amount of oil in a separate pan. Once hot, add the finely chopped garlic and sauté until golden brown. Drizzle this aromatic garlic oil over the Paneer Kalimirch and sprinkle a pinch of black pepper on top for added flavor.
-
Serve: Transfer the Paneer Kalimirch to a serving bowl and enjoy it hot, ideally paired with warm parathas, naan, or rice. This dish not only makes for a fantastic weeknight meal but also stands out as an impressive option for parties and gatherings.
Cooking Tips
- Freshness of Ingredients: Ensure that your paneer is fresh for the best texture and flavor. If using store-bought paneer, consider lightly grilling it before adding it to the gravy to enhance its flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of black pepper to suit your heat preference; feel free to add more or less according to taste.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan alternative, substitute paneer with tofu and use coconut cream in place of dairy cream.
Enjoy the rich and creamy Paneer Kalimirch as a delightful side dish that showcases the warmth of North Indian cuisine while offering a luxurious dining experience. This dish is sure to become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire!
