Stuffed Bhindi with Paneer (Paneer Bharma Bhindi Recipe)
Introduction:
Stuffed Bhindi with Paneer is a delectable North Indian dish where tender bhindi (okra) is stuffed with a flavorful paneer mixture, and cooked to perfection. This unique recipe offers a wonderful combination of soft, aromatic okra and a spiced paneer filling. A delicious twist on a traditional vegetable dish, it can also be made into a curry with a tangy tomato gravy by adding tomato paste. Ideal for a light lunch or dinner, this vegetarian dish is not only nutritious but also offers rich, aromatic flavors. It’s best served with roti or rice, making it a hearty, fulfilling meal.
Ingredients Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bhindi (Okra) | 250 grams |
| Oil | As required |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Tomato | 1, grated |
| Ginger | 1 small teaspoon, grated |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, finely chopped |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Paneer (Cottage Cheese) | 1 cup, crumbled |
| Coriander Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Amchur (Dry Mango) Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Red Chili Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
Allergen Information:
- Contains dairy (Paneer).
- Suitable for vegetarians.
- Ensure the use of gluten-free ingredients if necessary.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian.
- Gluten-free (if using gluten-free ingredients).
- Nut-free, unless using nuts in a variation.
- Can be made vegan by substituting paneer with tofu or any other vegan alternatives.
Preparation and Cooking Instructions:
-
Preparation of Bhindi (Okra):
Wash the bhindi thoroughly and dry them well using a clean kitchen towel. Trim off the ends and make a slit in the center of each bhindi, taking care not to cut them completely. Remove the seeds and set them aside. Repeat this process for all the bhindi. -
Preparation of Stuffing (Paneer Mixture):
In a mixing bowl, combine crumbled paneer with coriander powder, amchur powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix everything well to create a homogenous stuffing mixture. This is the flavorful filling that will go inside the bhindi. -
Stuff the Bhindi:
Carefully stuff each slit bhindi with the prepared paneer mixture, ensuring that they are evenly filled. Set them aside on a plate. -
Cooking the Stuffed Bhindi:
Grease a microwave-safe tray with a little oil. Arrange the stuffed bhindi on the tray and microwave for 3-4 minutes to soften them slightly. -
Preparing the Gravy Base:
Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds and asafoetida. Once they begin to splutter, add finely chopped onion, grated ginger, and garlic. Sauté the mixture until the onions turn golden brown. -
Adding Tomatoes and Further Spices:
Now, add the grated tomato and cook the mixture on high flame, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices. If any paneer stuffing is left over, add it to the pan and mix well. Let it cook for a minute. -
Cooking the Stuffed Bhindi in the Gravy:
Add the microwaved stuffed bhindi to the pan, gently stirring them into the onion-tomato mixture. Cover the pan with a lid and cook the bhindi on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the bhindi softens and is cooked through. -
Final Touches:
Once the bhindi is cooked, squeeze some fresh lemon juice and sprinkle chat masala for added zest. Stir gently and remove from the heat. -
Serving:
Serve the stuffed bhindi hot with roti, paratha, or steamed rice. It also pairs beautifully with a bowl of Gujarati kadhi for a comforting, flavorful meal.
Nutritional Information:
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx. 100g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
| Potassium | 450 mg |
| Vitamin C | 20 mg |
| Calcium | 150 mg |
Tips for Best Results:
- You can customize the spices according to your taste. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the quantity of red chili powder.
- For an added crunch, you can deep fry the stuffed bhindi instead of cooking them with the gravy.
- You can also add a pinch of garam masala to the stuffing mixture to enhance the flavor profile.
- If you don’t have a microwave, you can steam the stuffed bhindi or cook them directly in the pan.
Conclusion:
Stuffed Bhindi with Paneer is a deliciously spiced North Indian dish that’s perfect for a wholesome vegetarian meal. The crunchy bhindi, filled with a flavorful paneer stuffing, offers a wonderful contrast to the smooth and tangy tomato gravy. Whether you enjoy it as a dry dish or with a gravy base, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It pairs perfectly with your choice of Indian flatbreads or rice, creating a complete meal for any occasion.
