Methi Paneer Bhurji Recipe – A Flavorful North Indian Dish
Methi Paneer Bhurji is a vibrant and hearty North Indian dish made from fenugreek leaves (methi) and crumbled paneer (Indian cottage cheese). This dish is packed with flavors from spices and herbs, making it a perfect choice for lunch or dinner. It is light, healthy, and high in protein, perfect for vegetarians who are looking for a nutritious meal option.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomato puree | 1 cup |
| Garlic cloves | 2 cloves |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Fresh ginger (1-inch piece) | 1 piece |
| Turmeric powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Garam masala powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Red chili powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Oil (for frying) | As required |
| Cumin seeds | 1/2 tsp |
| Fresh cream | 2 tbsp |
| Green chilies (finely chopped) | 2 chilies |
| Bell pepper (finely chopped) | 1 green bell pepper |
| Fresh tomatoes (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Fresh fenugreek leaves (chopped) | 3/4 cup |
| Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) | 2 tsp |
| Paneer (crumbled) | 200 grams |
| Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish) | 4 sprigs |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Start by preparing all the ingredients. Make the tomato puree and crumble the paneer. Keep these aside. Next, finely chop the onions, green chilies, bell pepper, and fresh tomatoes. Grate the ginger. Chop the fresh fenugreek leaves and set them aside as well.
Step 2: Preparing the Onion-Ginger-Garlic Paste
In a deep pan or kadhai, heat some oil. Add chopped onions, grated ginger, and garlic cloves. Sauté the mixture on medium heat until the onions turn golden brown. Allow the mixture to cool down slightly, and then grind it into a smooth paste using a blender or mixer grinder. Set aside.
Step 3: Preparing the Tomato Gravy
Return the paste to the kadhai and sauté it for 1 minute on medium heat. Now, add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala powder. Cook the spices for 2 minutes to release their aroma. Next, add the tomato puree and stir well. Allow the mixture to cook for 3-4 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together. Add a pinch of butter and salt to taste. Stir again and let it simmer for a minute before adding the cream. Mix everything well and then switch off the heat.
Step 4: Making the Methi Paneer Bhurji
In a separate pan, heat some oil and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter for about 10 seconds. Add chopped onions, bell pepper, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté the mixture until the onions and bell peppers soften. Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, fenugreek leaves, and kasuri methi. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the methi to release its distinct flavor and aroma.
Step 5: Combining the Paneer
Add the crumbled paneer, salt, and red chili powder to the pan. Mix everything well, and cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors. Now, pour this paneer mixture into the prepared tomato gravy, stirring to combine. Let it cook together for 2-3 more minutes, allowing all the flavors to integrate.
Step 6: Garnishing and Serving
Once cooked, remove the pan from heat and garnish with finely chopped fresh coriander leaves. Your delicious Methi Paneer Bhurji is ready to serve!
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Methi Paneer Bhurji hot with panchmel dal, tomato onion cucumber raita, and phulkas (soft Indian flatbreads) for a wholesome meal. This dish is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, providing a balance of flavors and nutrition.
Enjoy the rich taste of Methi Paneer Bhurji, a healthy, high-protein, and vegetarian delight that everyone will love!
This recipe is not just flavorful but also nutritious, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to add more protein to their vegetarian diet. Try this recipe for your next meal and delight in the wonderful fusion of spices and textures that come together in this comforting Indian classic.
