Are you craving some mouthwatering paneer bliss but would want to exclude the onions and garlic? Look nowhere else! Your taste buds will be satisfied by this paneer recipe sans onion and garlic, but you’ll also want more. This dish is a must-try whether you’re a seasoned chef or just getting started in the kitchen. Prepare yourself for a delicious journey through the paneer world!
Introduction to Paneer Recipe Without Onion and Garlic
In this delicious meal, paneer—an adaptable component in Indian cooking—takes centre stage. This dish will suit your needs whether you’re on a Jain diet, need to avoid onions and garlic for health reasons, or are just seeking for a fresh take on an old favourite.
Serving Size: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Vitamin A | 15% |
| Vitamin C | 20% |
| Calcium | 35% |
| Iron | 10% |
| Potassium | 8% |
| Phosphorus | 15% |
| Magnesium | 6% |
| Zinc | 4% |
| Copper | 2% |
| Selenium | 12% |
| Folate | 10% |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer | 250g |
| Tomato | 2 (medium-sized) |
| Cashews | 15g |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Yogurt | 1/4 cup |
| Green Chilies | 2 |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 tsp |
| Coriander Powder | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Red Chili Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Garam Masala | 1/2 tsp |
| Cooking Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh Coriander Leaves | For garnish |
| Salt | To taste |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Preparing the Base
- To begin, blanch the tomatoes. The tomatoes are added to a pot of boiling water. To get the skin to start peeling off, heat them for around 2 to 3 minutes.
- After removing the tomatoes from the boiling water, submerge them right away in ice water. The skin will be simpler to peel as a result. Peel and finely chop the tomatoes when they have cooled.
- Use a little water to blend the cashews, ginger, and green chilies into a smooth paste.
2. Sautéing the Ingredients
- In a pan, heat two tablespoons of cooking oil. Stir in the cumin seeds and watch them puff up.
- The cashew-ginger-chili paste should be added and sautéed for a few minutes until golden brown.
- Cook the tomatoes until they are mushy and the oil begins to separate after adding the diced tomatoes.
3. Adding Spices and Paneer
- Salt, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and other dry spices should be added. Mix thoroughly, then heat for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add milk and yoghurt now. Continually stir to prevent curdling.
- Add the paneer cubes once the liquid has thickened and the oil has separated. Mix them gently into the gravy.
4. Garnish and Serve
- Cook the paneer for five minutes at a moderate temperature to let it absorb the flavours.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and garam masala.
- It’s time to serve your flavorful and creamy paneer meal without onion or garlic!
Video Tutorial – Paneer Recipe Without Onion and Garlic
What to Serve Alongside
With steaming rice, naan, or parathas, this paneer meal tastes fantastic. It may also be served with your preferred pulao as a side dish.
Different Variations of the Dish
- Matar Paneer: For a pleasant touch and a splash of colour, add green peas.
- Palak Paneer: The gravy can be made healthier by include pureed spinach.a
- Paneer Tikka Masala: Adding bell peppers and onions will make it hotter.
How to Make a Healthier Version
You can use low-fat yoghurt, fewer cashews, and little to no oil while sautéing this meal to make it healthier. In addition, think about grilling the paneer rather than frying it.
How to Make the Vegan Version
Use tofu in place of the paneer and dairy-free milk and yoghurt for a vegan twist. The rest of the recipe stays the same, so a satisfying vegan experience is guaranteed.
How to Make the Non-Vegetarian Version
Cooked chicken, lamb, or prawns can be incorporated into the gravy to give it a non-vegetarian flavour. Before including the meat in the recipe, make sure it has been cooked properly. Though i am sure the non-vegetarian twist is not relevant for folks who are looking for this recipe 🙂
History of the Dish
This dish has a long culinary history that may be traced back to India. Jainism has a long history of avoiding foods like onion and garlic.
Fun Facts About the Dish
- Indian cottage cheese, or paneer, is a fantastic source of calcium and protein.
- The Persian word “paneer” is thought to have been introduced to India by the Mughals.
- Because of its creamy texture and flavour-absorbing properties, paneer is a favourite component in many North Indian recipes.
- Read more here.
Conclusion
This onion- and garlic-free paneer recipe takes you on a delectable culinary tour of the Indian cuisine. This recipe won’t let you down, whether you have dietary requirements or just want to enjoy a fresh take on an old favourite. Try with several variations, modify it to suit your dietary requirements, and enjoy paneer’s creamy richness in a brand-new way.
FAQs
Can I make this dish with paneer from the store?
If you’re pressed for time, you can use paneer that was purchased in a store. However, homemade paneer is typically creamier and softer.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! The flavours of this dish actually merge together the following day, making it taste even better.
Is this paneer dish freezer-friendly?
Although it can be frozen, the texture of the paneer could alter slightly when it is thawed.
