Paneer Peshawari Recipe – Cottage Cheese In Rich Gravy
Paneer Peshawari is a rich and creamy Punjabi curry that combines the goodness of homemade paneer with a luscious gravy made from a blend of aromatic spices, cashews, and tomatoes. This delightful vegetarian dish is perfect for a lunch or dinner and is an excellent addition to a party spread when served alongside naan, rice, and a refreshing salad. The creamy texture and delicate flavors of this dish are sure to satisfy anyone who loves indulgent, flavorful food.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 1-1/2 cups (cut into big cubes) |
| Onions (finely chopped) | 2 onions |
| Homemade tomato puree | 1 cup |
| Whole cashews (soaked in warm water) | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh cream | 2 tablespoons |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Bay leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 leaf |
| Ginger garlic paste | 1 tablespoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Kashmiri red chili powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Coriander powder (Dhania) | 2 teaspoons |
| Kasuri methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) | 1 tablespoon |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Punjabi
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
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Soak the Cashews: Begin by soaking the cashews in hot water for about 10 minutes. Once soaked, drain the water and transfer the cashews to a mixer jar. Grind them into a smooth paste and set the cashew paste aside.
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Heat Butter and Temper Spices: In a wide pan, heat the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add cumin seeds and bay leaf. Allow the cumin seeds to sizzle and release their aroma.
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Sauté Onions and Ginger-Garlic Paste: Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they turn translucent and soft. Next, stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw smell.
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Add Spices: Once the onions and ginger-garlic paste are well cooked, add the following spices: cumin powder, turmeric powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, garam masala powder, and coriander powder. Stir the spices for a few seconds to allow them to bloom and release their fragrance.
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Cook the Tomatoes and Cashew Paste: Pour in the homemade tomato puree and add the cashew paste. Mix well, and let the mixture cook on medium heat for 5 minutes, allowing the spices and tomato puree to combine into a rich, creamy gravy. If the gravy thickens too much, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little water (about 1/4 cup).
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Add Paneer and Kasuri Methi: Once the gravy has thickened and the flavors are well blended, add the paneer cubes, kasuri methi, and honey. Stir gently to coat the paneer with the gravy and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
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Final Touches: Check the salt and spice levels, adjusting as needed. Stir in the fresh cream to give the gravy a creamy texture and richness. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes.
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Serve: Your Paneer Peshawari is now ready! Serve it hot with Kashmiri Pulao, Butter Garlic Naan, Boondi Raita, and Kala Chana Salad for a complete and satisfying party meal.
Tips for Perfect Paneer Peshawari
- Paneer: For the best texture, use homemade paneer, which is softer and fresher than store-bought versions. Cut the paneer into larger cubes for a more hearty bite.
- Spices: Kashmiri red chili powder not only adds color to the dish but also brings a mild heat. If you prefer a spicier version, you can increase the chili powder or add fresh green chilies.
- Adjusting Consistency: Cashews make the gravy thick and creamy, but if you prefer a thinner consistency, feel free to add a bit more water or cream to achieve your desired texture.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this creamy paneer dish with naan, roti, or pulao for a fulfilling meal. It’s also perfect with a side of crispy salad or raita to balance the richness of the gravy.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-400 kcal |
| Protein | 15-20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18-22 g |
| Fat | 25-30 g |
| Fiber | 2-3 g |
| Sodium | 500-700 mg |
| Sugars | 4-5 g |
Paneer Peshawari is a luxurious and flavorful dish that showcases the best of Punjabi cuisine. Its creamy, nutty gravy pairs perfectly with the soft cubes of paneer, making it a hit at any meal. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or a grand party spread, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.
