Chaman Qaliya: A Delightful Kashmiri Paneer Dish
Chaman Qaliya, a treasured dish from the beautiful region of Kashmir, is a perfect embodiment of comfort and warmth, making it an ideal choice for a delightful dinner. This vegetarian recipe highlights the creamy richness of paneer, infused with aromatic spices that tantalize the taste buds. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual treat, with its vibrant colors and inviting aroma.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (cottage cheese) | 500 grams, cut |
| Mustard seeds (rai) | As required |
| Saffron | A pinch |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Cinnamon stick | 1 |
| Cloves | 4 |
| Full-fat milk | 1 cup |
| Water | 6 cups |
| Turmeric powder | 2 tablespoons |
| Cumin powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Fennel powder | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Cardamom powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh coriander | A handful, chopped |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 320 kcal |
| Protein | 14 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 15 grams |
| Fat | 22 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 4
Cuisine
- Cuisine: Kashmiri
- Course: Dinner
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
To prepare this delicious Chaman Qaliya, begin by heating some oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai. Once the oil is hot, add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and cloves, allowing them to sizzle for about 30 seconds until they release their aromatic fragrance. Next, pour in the water and bring it to a vigorous boil.
Once the water is boiling, carefully add the turmeric powder, cumin powder, salt, and fennel powder, stirring to combine all the spices thoroughly. Allow the mixture to simmer until the water reduces by half, which should take around 10-15 minutes.
After the water has reduced, introduce the paneer cubes into the pot, stirring gently. Cook the paneer for 3 to 4 minutes, ensuring that it absorbs the flavorful broth. Following this, add the full-fat milk and saffron, stirring until well blended. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Finally, sprinkle in the cardamom powder and turn off the heat. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped coriander before serving.
Serve the Chaman Qaliya hot alongside boondi raita and fresh phulkas for an authentic Kashmiri experience that is sure to impress your family and friends. This rich, creamy dish is not only a delight to the senses but also a comforting addition to your dinner table, perfect for cozy evenings. Enjoy the flavors of Kashmir right in your own home!
