Kasuri Methi Paneer Sabzi: A Flavorful North Indian Delight
Recipe Overview:
Kasuri Methi Paneer Sabzi is a fragrant and flavorful North Indian dish, perfect for dinner or as a vegetarian side. The combination of homemade paneer (cottage cheese) and the aromatic dried fenugreek leaves, or Kasuri Methi, creates a delightful dish that is both savory and satisfying. With a rich blend of spices and a smooth texture, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Served with warm Roti, Phulka, or Paratha, it’s a wholesome, high-protein vegetarian recipe that brings together the goodness of spices and fresh ingredients.
Ingredients for Kasuri Methi Paneer Sabzi
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 1 cup (cubed) |
| Onions (finely chopped) | 2 medium |
| Tomatoes (finely chopped) | 2 medium |
| Ginger (finely chopped) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Garam masala powder | 2 1/2 teaspoons |
| Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower oil | As required |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Dinner
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Kasuri Methi Paneer Sabzi
-
Heat the Oil:
- Start by heating a non-stick stir-fry pan over medium heat. Add sunflower oil and let it warm up.
-
-
Sauté the Cumin Seeds:
- Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds to the pan. Allow them to sizzle for a few seconds, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
-
Add Onions and Sauté:
- Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they become translucent. This will take about 3-4 minutes, and the onions should soften without browning.
-
Cook the Tomatoes:
- Next, add the finely chopped tomatoes. Stir well and cook until the tomatoes break down and become soft and mushy. This will help form the base of the sauce.
-
Spice It Up:
- Sprinkle the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and garam masala powder into the pan. Mix the spices well with the onions and tomatoes. Let the mixture cook for about a minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
-
Add Kasuri Methi:
- Take the dried fenugreek leaves (Kasuri Methi) and crush them gently between your palms. Stir the crushed Kasuri Methi into the pan, allowing it to infuse the dish with its distinct aroma.
-
Season with Salt:
- Add the required amount of salt to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
-
Add the Paneer:
- Gently add the cubed paneer to the pan, ensuring the pieces are coated with the masala. Be gentle during this step as paneer can break easily. Stir the mixture carefully and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes.
-
Simmer and Serve:
- Allow the dish to simmer on low heat. Avoid stirring too often, as the paneer may crumble. Once everything is well combined and heated through, switch off the flame.
-
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the Kasuri Methi Paneer Sabzi with freshly chopped coriander leaves for an added burst of color and freshness.
-
Pair with Your Favorite Bread:
- Serve this delicious paneer sabzi with hot Roti, Phulka, or Chapati for a complete meal. It also makes a great side dish when paired with Peshawari Chole and Sindhi Pulao for a festive spread.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various Indian breads, such as Roti, Paratha, or even Tawa Paratha. It’s also an excellent choice for serving alongside other Indian delicacies like Peshawari Chole and Sindhi Pulao. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering, Kasuri Methi Paneer Sabzi is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Tips and Variations:
- Paneer Substitute: You can substitute homemade paneer with store-bought paneer if you’re short on time. Just make sure to cut it into cubes or crumble it, depending on your preference.
- For a Creamy Texture: If you prefer a creamier dish, you can add a splash of cream or yogurt to the gravy towards the end of cooking.
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of red chilli powder and garam masala according to your spice tolerance. You can also add green chillies for extra heat.
- Make It Vegan: To make this dish vegan, substitute the paneer with tofu. The flavor profile will remain the same, and it will be a great vegan alternative.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 250 kcal |
| Protein | 15 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 10 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Fat | 18 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 4 grams |
| Cholesterol | 20 mg |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and quantities used.)
This Kasuri Methi Paneer Sabzi is an aromatic and delightful dish that brings the rich flavors of North India right to your table. The combination of fresh spices and the unmistakable taste of dried fenugreek leaves adds depth to the creamy paneer, making it a delicious and satisfying meal option. Enjoy this high-protein vegetarian recipe, perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or as a hearty side dish.
