Paneer, a versatile ingredient, has become a favorite in Indian kitchens, enjoyed by people of all classes and ages. It holds a special place in Punjabi cuisine. Today, we're bringing you a delicious, tangy, and flavorful recipe: Amritsari Paneer Bhurji. This recipe is particularly for those who want to try paneer in a new and exciting way. This bhurji is made with a special paste and spices, which make its flavor so unique that you'll want to eat it with pav, paratha, or naan every time.
Ingredients for Amritsari Paneer Bhurji (for 4 servings)
For the Paste:
- 4 tablespoons yogurt
- 1 teaspoon Kitchen King Masala
- 1 teaspoon Garam Masala
- 1 teaspoon Chaat Masala
- 1 teaspoon Pav Bhaji Masala
- 1 teaspoon Chhole Masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons roasted gram flour (besan)
For the Bhurji:
- 2 tablespoons onion (finely chopped)
- 4 tablespoons tomato (grated)
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon ginger and green chili paste
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)
- 1 cup lukewarm water
- 50 grams paneer (grated)
For Garnishing and Serving:
- Thin ginger slices
- Fresh coriander leaves
- Fresh Pav (bread rolls)
- Green chutney
Instructions
1. Preparing the Spicy Paste
First, take yogurt in a deep bowl. Add all the dry spices – Kitchen King Masala, Garam Masala, Chaat Masala, Pav Bhaji Masala, Chhole Masala, turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix these spices well. Then add the roasted gram flour and prepare a thick paste. This paste will give the bhurji a special Punjabi flavor.
2. Tempering and Sautéing the Onions
Now, heat oil and butter in a pan. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. When the onions turn light brown, add the garlic paste and sauté well.
3. Mixing Spices and Tomatoes
Now, add the kasuri methi and sauté for a few seconds. Then add the ginger-green chili paste and cook until fragrant. Then add the grated tomatoes and mix well. Cook on medium heat, stirring constantly, until the tomatoes are completely softened.
4. Adding the Yogurt Spice Paste
Now add the previously prepared yogurt and spice paste. Keep stirring it on low heat so that the yogurt doesn't curdle. When the spices are cooked well and the oil starts to separate from the mixture, add lukewarm water little by little. Adjust the gravy to your desired consistency.
5. Adding Paneer and Giving the Final Touch
Now add the grated paneer to this mixture. Be careful not to cook the paneer for too long after adding it, otherwise, its texture may become hard. Cook for only 2-3 minutes and then turn off the gas.
Some Additional Tips
- You can also use vegetables like capsicum or sweet corn.
- Those who don't like it spicy can reduce the amount of red chili.
- For a healthier option, you can grill the paneer in less oil and then add it.
Amritsari Paneer Bhurji is not just a simple dish, but a powerful experience of Punjabi flavors. Its special spicy paste, tomato-onion gravy, and soft paneer combine to create a taste that lingers on the tongue for a long time. If you want to make something new and flavorful in your daily meals, then definitely try this recipe.
