Achari Paneer
Ingredients
- 14oz paneer cut in ½ inch cubes (paneer you can find in Indian grocery store)
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1/8 tbsp turmeric (haldi)
- 1/4 cup yogurt (dahi)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 whole red chilies Sabut lal mirch)
- Pinch of asafetida (hing)
- 1/4 tbsp nigella (onion seeds or kalonji)
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds (dhania)
- 1/4 tbsp fenugreek seeds (mathi)
- 1/2 tbsp black pepper
- 1/2 tbsp fennel seeds (saunf)
- 1 ½ cup baby spinach leaves (palak)
Instructions
- Mix paneer, yogurt, turmeric and salt. Set aside.
- In a frying pan over medium heat, dry roast nigella, coriander seeds, fenugreek seeds, fennel seeds, and black pepper for 1-2 minutes. Seeds will become darker in color and give off a beautiful aroma.
- Crush the roasted seeds using a mortar or rolling pin. Set aside.
- Add oil to the same pan, at low-medium heat. Roast red chilies till they turn a darker color. Remove from pan and break each one into 2-3 pieces.
- Increase to medium heat; add asafetida, followed by paneer mixture. Stir fry for 3-4 minutes until most of the moisture has evaporated. Do not overcook the paneer as it will become dry.The yogurt should coat the paneer nicely so it remains moist. Turn off the heat.
- Add all the dry spices and mix well.
- Serve warm achari paneer over a bed of spinach leaves.
Notes
What is Achari Paneer ?
Paneer Achari isn’t quite an appetizer or snack, but it can definitely be enjoyed in those settings! It’s a delicious vegetarian dish originating in North India. The star is paneer, a soft Indian cheese, cooked in a creamy, flavorful gravy.
The “Achari” part comes from the pickling spices used in the recipe, giving it a tangy and slightly spicy kick. It’s often enjoyed with rice or naan, a type of leavened flatbread.
While the exact origin is unknown, achari paneer tikka recipe is believed to have emerged in North India, particularly in the regions of Punjab and Delhi. Its popularity has spread throughout the country and even internationally, capturing hearts (and taste buds) with its delightful combination of textures and flavors.
So, while not technically an appetizer, Achari Paneer is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free thanks to the paneer, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
How to make Achari Paneer ?
To make achari paneer masala, first, mix paneer (Indian cheese), yogurt, turmeric, and salt together and set it aside. In a pan over medium heat, dry roast nigella, coriander seeds, fenugreek seeds, fennel seeds, and black pepper for 1-2 minutes until they darken and release a nice smell. Crush these roasted seeds using a mortar or rolling pin and keep them aside.
In the same pan, add oil over low-medium heat and roast red chilies until they darken. Remove them from the pan and break each chili into 2-3 pieces. Increase the heat to medium, add asafetida, then pour in the paneer mixture. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until most of the moisture evaporates, being careful not to overcook the paneer.
Now, turn off the heat and add the crushed spices, mixing everything well. The paneer needs to be nicely coated with the yogurt to keep it moist. Serve the warm achari paneer tikka over a bed of spinach leaves for a delicious and flavorful dish. Enjoy!
Other Paneer Variants
Diving into Manjula’s Kitchen, a treasure trove of Indian recipes, we can discover a delectable world of paneer dishes! Here are 5 enticing paneer variations that will tantalize your taste buds:
Butter Paneer: This classic dish features paneer cubes deep-fried to a golden crisp. Manjula’s recipe guides you through creating a rich and creamy tomato gravy infused with aromatic spices like coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder. The addition of whipped yogurt adds a touch of tang, perfectly complementing the melt-in-your-mouth paneer.
Paneer Tikka Masala: This vibrant dish takes inspiration from the tandoor oven. Here, marinated paneer pieces are pan-fried until slightly browned, then bathed in a luxurious gravy. The gravy boasts a symphony of flavors – the sweetness of tomatoes, the warmth of red chili powder, and a hint of smokiness. A touch of cornstarch lends a delightful silky texture, making it an ideal main course with rice or naan.
Paneer Methi (Methi Malai Paneer): This comfort food features paneer simmered in a creamy and flavorful fenugreek sauce. Manjula’s recipe uses dried fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi) to impart a unique, slightly bitter taste that beautifully complements the creamy cashew and tomato base. The addition of milk further enhances the smooth texture, making it a perfect dip for roti or a comforting side dish.
Paneer Tomato Curry: This vibrant curry showcases the beauty of simplicity. Fresh tomatoes are blended into a smooth puree, then cooked with aromatic spices like cumin and coriander. Chunks of paneer are added to the gravy, allowing them to soak up all the delicious flavors. Bell peppers add a touch of sweetness and crunch, making this a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Palak Paneer: This vibrant green curry is a nutritional powerhouse. Fresh spinach forms the base of the gravy, providing a rich source of iron and vitamins. Manjula’s recipe guides you through incorporating spices like ginger, garlic, and garam masala, creating a flavorful and aromatic sauce. Paneer cubes nestled in this emerald green gravy make for a visually stunning and incredibly delicious dish.
FAQs Frequently Asked Question for Achari Paneer
Is Achari Paneer Spicy?
Achari paneer can range from mild to spicy, depending on the recipe. The “achari masala” itself has a kick, but the level of heat can be adjusted by controlling the amount of red chili powder used.
What Does Achari Paneer Taste Like?
The dominant flavors are tangy and savory, thanks to the pickling spices. You’ll also experience hints of spice, creaminess (often from yogurt or cashews), and the mild flavor of paneer itself.
Is Achari Paneer Vegetarian?
Yes, achari paneer is traditionally a vegetarian dish. Paneer is made from milk and the masala typically uses vegetarian ingredients.
Is Achari Paneer Vegan?
Not always. Some recipes incorporate yogurt or cream in the gravy. You can find vegan versions that use plant-based yogurt alternatives or coconut milk for creaminess.
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