Fresh Cheese in Saffron Sauce

Fresh Cheese in Saffron Sauce Recipe from Cambodia

Region / culture: Cambodia | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Fresh Cheese in Saffron Sauce is a delicious and aromatic dish that combines the creamy texture of cheese with the rich flavors of saffron and spices. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

History

This recipe has its origins in Indian cuisine, where paneer (a type of fresh cheese) is a popular ingredient in many dishes. The addition of saffron to the sauce adds a luxurious touch and elevates the flavors of the dish.

Ingredients

375 g/12 oz of panir or 1 block of ricotta cheese
2 tbsp of ghee
2 tbsp of oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
500 g/1 lb of ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped
1 tsp of ground turmeric
1 tsp of chilli powder
3 whole cloves
3 cardamom pods, bruised
1 tsp of sugar or to taste
0.25 tsp of saffron strands

How to prepare

Cut the paneer into slices about 1 cm (0.5 in) thick and cut each slice in half to make serving-sized pieces.
Fry the paneer in half of the ghee and oil until golden. Put it on a plate and set it aside.
If using ricotta cheese (it must be in a block, not in a tub), bake it to make it firm like paneer.
Cut the ricotta block into 3 or 4 thick slices.
Place the slices on a baking tray lined with non-stick paper and bake in a moderate oven for 30–35 minutes until they turn golden.
Heat the remaining oil and ghee in a saucepan. Fry the onion until it becomes golden brown.
Add tomatoes, spices, salt, and sugar to the saucepan and simmer until the gravy thickens.
Add the slices of cheese to the gravy and allow them to simmer.
Toast saffron in a dry pan over low heat for about 1 minute.
Crush the saffron with the back of a spoon and dissolve it in a tablespoon of hot water.
Stir in the saffron mixture about 5 minutes before the end of cooking.

Variations

Add vegetables such as bell peppers or peas to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
Use different spices like cumin or coriander for a unique twist on the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to fry the paneer or bake the ricotta cheese until golden to enhance the flavor and texture.

- Toasting the saffron before adding it to the dish helps to release its aromatic flavors.

- Adjust the amount of sugar and spices to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Fresh Cheese in Saffron Sauce with steamed rice or naan bread for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the paneer or baking the ricotta cheese helps to enhance the texture and flavor of the dish.

- Simmering the cheese in the sauce allows it to absorb the flavors and become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use tofu instead of paneer or ricotta cheese for a vegan version of this dish.

- Substitute ghee with butter or oil for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat the sauce and add the cheese before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Fresh Cheese in Saffron Sauce in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of saffron threads for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a light and refreshing salad or a side of roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the cheese sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 12g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 22g per serving

Saturated Fat: 10g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 15g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Calcium: 20% of the daily recommended intake per serving

Iron: 10% of the daily recommended intake per serving

Vitamin C: 15% of the daily recommended intake per serving

Alergens

Contains dairy

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and calcium, but it is also high in fat and calories. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Fresh Cheese in Saffron Sauce is a flavorful and indulgent dish that is perfect for a special meal. With the rich flavors of saffron and spices, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Enjoy this dish with rice or bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her quaint little village. Maria was known for her incredible cooking skills, and I always looked forward to learning new recipes from her.

On this particular day, as we sat in her kitchen sipping on cups of hot tea, Maria mentioned a dish called Fresh Cheese in Saffron Sauce that was a specialty in her village. My ears perked up at the sound of this unique dish, and I begged Maria to teach me how to make it.

With a twinkle in her eye, Maria agreed to show me the recipe. She led me to her garden, where she plucked fresh saffron flowers from her saffron plants. The vibrant red color of the flowers was mesmerizing, and I couldn't wait to see how they would transform the dish.

Back in the kitchen, Maria guided me through the process of making the saffron sauce. We gently simmered the saffron flowers in a pot of milk until the liquid turned a beautiful golden hue. The aroma that wafted through the air was intoxicating, and I knew this sauce would be nothing short of magical.

Next, we crumbled fresh cheese into the saffron-infused milk and let it simmer until the cheese had melted and the sauce had thickened. Maria explained that the key to this dish was using the freshest ingredients possible, as it would elevate the flavors and make the dish truly unforgettable.

As we sat down to enjoy the Fresh Cheese in Saffron Sauce, I couldn't help but marvel at the delicious combination of flavors. The saffron added a subtle floral note to the creamy cheese, creating a dish that was both comforting and exotic at the same time.

From that day on, Fresh Cheese in Saffron Sauce became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and any time I wanted to impress my guests with a dish that was both simple and sophisticated.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of Fresh Cheese in Saffron Sauce to the next generation. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that warm summer day in Maria's kitchen, where I first learned the magic of saffron and fresh cheese.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing this dish for my grandchildren, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary adventures that have shaped my life. The recipes I have learned from friends like Maria are not just instructions for making a meal – they are a reflection of the love and memories that have enriched my life.

And so, as I serve up the Fresh Cheese in Saffron Sauce to my eager grandchildren, I know that I am passing on more than just a recipe – I am passing on a piece of my heart, a piece of my history, and a piece of the joy that comes from sharing good food with the ones you love.