Kashmiri Style Chaman Recipe – Qaliya Cottage Cheese Curry
Description: A traditional Kashmiri dish, Kashmiri Style Chaman features rich and creamy paneer simmered in a fragrant blend of spices, making it the ultimate vegetarian delight for dinner. Perfectly paired with Kashmiri Kesar Pulao or homemade butter naan, this dish will transport your taste buds to the serene valleys of Kashmir.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 500 grams, cut into cubes |
| Mustard oil or refined oil | As required |
| Saffron strands | 2 to 3 |
| Bay leaf (tej patta) | 1 |
| Cinnamon stick (Dalchini) | 1 |
| Cloves (Laung) | 4 |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Water | 6 cups |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 2 tablespoons |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Fennel powder | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Cardamom powder (Elaichi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh coriander (Dhania) leaves | For garnish |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 320 |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Instructions
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Preparation of Base: Begin by heating mustard oil or refined oil in a wok or kadai over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and cloves, allowing the spices to infuse the oil for a minute.
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Creating the Gravy: Carefully add 6 cups of water to the wok and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, stir in the turmeric powder, cumin powder, salt, and fennel powder. Allow the mixture to boil and reduce slightly, deepening the flavors.
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Cooking the Paneer: Add the paneer cubes to the wok, stirring gently. Cook until the paneer is soft and the curry begins to thicken, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
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Finishing Touches: Pour in 1 cup of whole-fat milk and add the saffron strands, stirring well to incorporate. Continue cooking until the curry reaches your desired consistency, typically another 5 minutes.
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Seasoning: Finally, sprinkle in the cardamom powder and turn off the heat. Give the curry one last gentle stir.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish the Kashmiri Style Chaman with freshly chopped coriander leaves. This dish is best enjoyed with Kashmiri Kesar Pulao or warm, homemade butter naan.
Enjoy this delightful Kashmiri curry, a true representation of the region’s rich culinary heritage, and share it with family and friends for an unforgettable dining experience!
