Achari Paneer Recipe – Spicy Pickled Paneer Gravy
Description:
Achari Paneer, a delectable dish that brings together the soft richness of paneer and the spicy, tangy flavors of pickled masala, is a North Indian favorite. This vibrant dish is an absolute treat, made with homemade paneer cooked in a flavorful gravy that combines the zestiness of pickled onions and tomatoes. Perfectly balanced with the sweetness of honey and the richness of fresh cream, Achari Paneer makes for a delightful vegetarian main course. It’s an ideal recipe for a weekend lunch, offering a satisfying meal with an aromatic blend of spices and textures.
Whether you’re a paneer lover or new to North Indian cuisine, Achari Paneer will surely steal your heart with its mouthwatering flavor and inviting aroma. Serve it with a warm whole wheat lachha paratha or jeera rice, and add a refreshing lauki raita on the side for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 200 grams |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion (chopped) | 2 onions |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Ginger | 1 inch piece |
| Pachranga Pickle (with masala) | 2 tablespoons |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | ½ teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Water | 1½ cups (as required) |
| Homemade Tomato Puree | 1½ cups |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh Cream | ¼ cup |
| Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) | ¼ tablespoon |
Preparation Time:
30 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Ground Paste:
Begin by grinding the ingredients to be used in the paste: chopped onion, garlic, ginger, pachranga pickle, and fennel seeds. Blend them together into a smooth paste. The pachranga pickle will add the signature tangy and spicy flavor that defines this dish. -
Sauté the Ground Paste:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the freshly ground paste to the pan and sauté for about 3–4 minutes, or until the raw smell of the onions, garlic, and ginger dissipates. The oil should start separating from the paste, indicating that it’s cooked well. -
Spices and Tomato Gravy:
Next, add the red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and garam masala powder to the pan. Stir them in well to combine and cook the spices for another minute. The aromatic spices will infuse the oil and paste with an inviting fragrance. -
Add Tomato Puree and Simmer:
Stir in the homemade tomato puree, along with salt and honey. Mix everything together and bring the gravy to a brisk boil. The honey will provide a hint of sweetness, balancing the tanginess of the pickle and the spices. -
Add Cream and Paneer:
Reduce the heat and add the fresh cream, stirring it into the sauce until it becomes smooth and velvety. Now, gently stir in the cubes of paneer. You can add a little water at this stage to adjust the consistency of the gravy to your liking. Let the mixture simmer for 4–5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. -
Final Touches:
Once the gravy is rich and aromatic, sprinkle in the kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for an added burst of flavor. Stir gently to incorporate the fenugreek, which will add a lovely herbal note to the dish. -
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the gravy and adjust the salt or spices if necessary. Add more honey if you prefer a sweeter taste, or more chili powder for extra heat. -
Serve:
Garnish the Achari Paneer with fresh coriander leaves, if desired. Serve the dish hot with whole wheat lachha paratha, jeera rice, and a side of lauki raita for a wholesome North Indian lunch experience.
Serving Suggestions:
For the perfect meal, pair your Achari Paneer with soft, flaky whole wheat lachha paratha or fragrant jeera rice. The raita, made with bottle gourd (lauki), adds a refreshing touch to balance the spiciness of the paneer. For dessert, try a sweet apple mawa kheer to round off the meal on a comforting note.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Protein | ~15g |
| Fat | ~18g |
| Carbohydrates | ~15g |
| Fiber | ~3g |
| Sugars | ~5g |
| Sodium | ~400mg |
Achari Paneer is a high-protein vegetarian dish, perfect for a satisfying lunch. The paneer provides the protein, while the spices contribute to a flavor-packed, balanced meal. The fresh cream adds richness to the gravy, making each bite absolutely indulgent.
Conclusion:
Achari Paneer is a fantastic choice for anyone craving a flavorful and spicy North Indian dish. With its robust and tangy flavors, this dish brings the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and aromatic spices to your table. Easy to prepare and always a hit with guests, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves authentic Indian cuisine. Whether you’re preparing it for a weekend lunch or a special family meal, Achari Paneer will surely impress!
