Paneer Bhurji
Paneer Bhurji is a delicious and quick Indian dish made with scrambled paneer (Indian cottage cheese), onions, tomatoes, and spices. It's a simple and easy dish that can be enjoyed anytime of the day. In the next blog you will learn how to make simple paneer at home. Why buy it from the store for $6, when you can make it for $10. Here's a simple recipe to make Paneer Bhurji:
Ingredients:
- 250 grams paneer (Indian cottage cheese), crumbled
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 large tomato, finely chopped
- 1 fresh/ frozen green chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Paneer:**
- Crumble the paneer using your hands or a fork. If using store-bought paneer, you can also grate it.
2. **Cook the Base:**
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until they release their aroma.
- Add finely chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
3. **Add Tomatoes and Spices:**
- Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for another minute.
4. **Add Paneer:**
- Add the crumbled or grated paneer to the pan. Mix well to combine with the masala.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Do not overcook, as paneer can become rubbery.
5. **Finish the Dish:**
- Add garam masala and mix well.
- Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
6. **Serve:**
- Serve hot with parathas, rotis, bread, or as a side dish with rice.
- You can also squeeze some fresh lemon juice on top before serving for an added tangy flavor.
Tips:
- You can add more vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste preference.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a splash of milk or cream towards the end of cooking.
