Creamy Delight: Paneer Malai Recipe
Introduction
Paneer Malai is a delectable Indian dish that showcases the richness of Indian cuisine. It is a creamy and flavorful dish made with fresh paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a luscious malai (cream) sauce. Paneer Malai is a popular choice among vegetarians and is often served as a main course or a side dish in Indian households and restaurants. The dish is known for its creamy texture, aromatic spices, and delicate balance of flavors. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, instructions, nutritional facts, health benefits, and conclude with why Paneer Malai is a must-try dish.
Ingredients for Paneer Malai
To prepare Paneer Malai, you will need the following ingredients:
- 250 grams of paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cubed
- 1 cup of fresh cream (malai)
- 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2 tablespoons of ghee (clarified butter) or cooking oil
- 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of garam masala
- 1 teaspoon of dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
Instructions to prepare Paneer Malai
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make Paneer Malai:
1) Heat ghee or cooking oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
2) Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3) Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
4) Pour the tomato puree into the pan and cook until the mixture thickens and the oil separates.
5) Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
6) Lower the heat and add fresh cream (malai) to the pan. Stir gently to combine with the spice mixture.
7) Add the cubed paneer and mix gently, ensuring that the paneer pieces are coated with the creamy sauce.
8)Crush the dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) between your palms and sprinkle them over the paneer. This will add a distinct flavor to the dish.
9) Cover the pan and let the paneer cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
10) Once the paneer is cooked, garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
11) Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.
Nutritional Facts of Paneer Malai
Here is the approximate nutritional information per serving of Paneer Malai:
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
Health Benefits of Paneer Malai
a) Good source of protein: Paneer Malai provides a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. It is especially beneficial for vegetarians who may have limited sources of protein in their diet.
b) Calcium-rich: Paneer, the main ingredient in Paneer Malai, is a rich source of calcium. Adequate calcium intake is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and it also plays a role in muscle function and nerve transmission.
C) Vitamin B12: Paneer contains vitamin B12, which is primarily found in animal-based foods. This vitamin is essential for red blood cell production, brain function, and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
d) Healthy fats: While Paneer Malai contains some saturated fats from the cream, it also provides healthy fats from the paneer. These fats help in maintaining proper hormone levels, promoting cell growth, and supporting brain health.
Conclusion
Paneer Malai is a delightful dish that combines the richness of paneer and the creaminess of malai to create a flavorful and indulgent experience. With its aromatic spices and creamy texture, it has become a favorite among Indian food lovers worldwide. In addition to its delightful taste, Paneer Malai also offers several health benefits. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin B12, making it a nutritious choice for vegetarians. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, Paneer Malai is sure to leave you craving for more. So, gather the ingredients, follow the instructions, and treat yourself to this heavenly dish that truly embodies the essence of Indian cuisine.
