Stuffed Palak Paneer Paratha
Protein-Packed & Flavorful Indian Breakfast Delight
Stuffed Palak Paneer Paratha is a wholesome, protein-rich Indian dish that combines the goodness of spinach (palak) and paneer (homemade cottage cheese). This comforting breakfast recipe is not only packed with essential nutrients but is also loaded with the vibrant flavors of spices that enhance the taste of the parathas. The paneer is tossed in dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), red chili powder, turmeric, and other spices, lending a delicate and aromatic flavor to these parathas. Ideal for a hearty meal to kickstart your day, this dish is perfect when served with a side of refreshing boondi raita and tangy aam ka achaar.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Indian Breakfast
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the dough:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 2 cups |
| Water | As needed |
| Salt | A pinch |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
For the filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 1 cup (grated/crumbled) |
| Spinach Leaves (Palak) | 2 cups (finely chopped) |
| Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) | 2 tablespoons (crushed) |
| Red Chilli Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Amchur (Dry Mango Powder) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Nutralite Classic Spread | For cooking |
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 6-8 Parathas
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
To begin making the palak paneer paratha dough, take 2 cups of whole wheat flour in a large bowl. Add a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of oil. Gradually add water, a little at a time, and knead the dough until it becomes soft, smooth, and pliable. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
While the dough is resting, prepare the stuffing. In a separate bowl, crumble or grate the homemade paneer and set it aside. In a pan, heat a little oil and sauté the finely chopped spinach leaves (palak) until they shrink down and release excess moisture. Allow the spinach to cool slightly.
Once cooled, combine the sautéed spinach with the crumbled paneer. Add crushed kasuri methi, red chili powder, turmeric powder, amchur, cumin powder, and salt. Mix all ingredients thoroughly. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or chili powder if needed.
Step 3: Shape the Parathas
Divide the dough into small equal-sized portions (about the size of a golf ball). Similarly, divide the palak paneer stuffing into portions corresponding to the dough balls. Roll each dough ball into a small, 3-inch diameter disc using a rolling pin, dusting it lightly with flour.
Place a portion of the prepared palak paneer stuffing in the center of the dough disc. Carefully fold the edges of the dough up and around the filling to seal it, pinching the edges together. Gently flatten the stuffed dough ball into a thicker disc.
Step 4: Roll and Cook the Parathas
Lightly dust the stuffed dough ball with dry flour and roll it out into a larger circle, taking care not to let the filling spill out. If the dough sticks, sprinkle more dry flour.
Heat a tawa or flat griddle on medium heat. Once hot, melt a little Nutralite Classic Spread on the tawa. Place the stuffed paratha on the tawa and cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, until light golden brown spots appear. Flip the paratha and cook the other side, pressing gently with a spatula for an even cook. Add a little more spread if needed and continue cooking until both sides are crispy and golden brown.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the stuffed palak paneer paratha from the tawa and serve hot with a side of boondi raita and aam ka achaar for an extra zing. These parathas make a satisfying and filling breakfast or can be served for dinner as well.
Pro Tip: You can make the dough and stuffing ahead of time and refrigerate them for an easier, quicker meal preparation. Simply roll and cook the parathas when you’re ready to serve!
Stuffed Palak Paneer Paratha combines the goodness of spinach, cottage cheese, and a blend of aromatic spices in a crispy, soft paratha shell. It’s a nutrient-packed, flavor-filled dish that will be loved by all members of your family, making it a perfect addition to your Indian breakfast repertoire. Enjoy it as part of a healthy meal with the goodness of high-protein ingredients and a delightful taste.
