Paneer Parathas
Authentic Paneer Parathas Recipe from India - Vegetarian Food
Introduction
Paneer Parathas are a popular Indian flatbread stuffed with a delicious mixture of shredded cottage cheese, spices, and herbs. These parathas are a perfect combination of crispy outer layer and soft, flavorful filling, making them a favorite among both kids and adults.
History
Paneer Parathas have been a staple in Indian cuisine for centuries. The dish originated in the northern regions of India, where paneer (cottage cheese) is a common ingredient in many dishes. The combination of paneer with spices and herbs stuffed inside a wheat flour dough creates a hearty and satisfying meal that is enjoyed by many.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of whole wheat flour (atta)
- 1 cup of shredded paneer (cottage cheese)
- 1 tsp of fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped
- 0.25 tsp of red chili powder
- 0.25 tsp of garam masala
- salt, to taste
- 3 tbsp of ghee
- water as needed
How to prepare
- In a pan, sauté shredded paneer in a little oil along with salt, coriander leaves, red chili powder, and garam masala. Set it aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour (atta), salt, and one tablespoon of ghee. Mix well and gradually add water to form a smooth dough.
- Divide the dough into golf ball-sized portions and set them aside.
- Take each dough ball and roll it out into a small circle. Place approximately one tablespoon of the paneer mixture in the center of the circle. Bring the ends of the circle together and shape it into a ball.
- Ensure that the edges are sealed completely to prevent the stuffing from coming out. Roll out these dough balls into 6-inch circles.
- Heat a pan and add a little ghee around the edges. Fry the dough balls until they become crispy.
- Serve the dish hot.
Variations
- You can customize the filling of Paneer Parathas by adding different spices, vegetables, or herbs. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or tofu as a substitute for paneer.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to seal the edges of the parathas properly to prevent the filling from spilling out while cooking.
- Cook the parathas on medium heat to ensure that they cook evenly and become crispy on the outside.
- You can add other vegetables like grated carrots or spinach to the filling for added nutrition and flavor.
- Serve the parathas hot with a dollop of butter or yogurt for a delicious meal.
Serving Suggestions
Paneer Parathas can be served with a side of yogurt, pickle, or chutney. They can also be enjoyed with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Cooking Techniques
The key to making perfect Paneer Parathas is to roll out the dough evenly and stuff it with a generous amount of filling. Cook the parathas on a hot griddle until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have paneer, you can use grated cheese or tofu as a substitute. You can also use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend for the dough.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the filling for Paneer Parathas in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to cook the parathas.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Paneer Parathas on a platter with a garnish of fresh coriander leaves and a side of yogurt or chutney. You can also cut the parathas into wedges and arrange them in a circular pattern for a visually appealing presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Paneer Parathas pair well with a variety of side dishes such as dal (lentil curry), raita (yogurt dip), or sabzi (vegetable curry). They can also be enjoyed with a refreshing salad or a glass of lassi (yogurt drink).
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Paneer Parathas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a pan or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Paneer Parathas contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Paneer Parathas contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Paneer Parathas contains approximately 10 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Paneer Parathas contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Paneer Parathas are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.
Alergens
Paneer Parathas contain dairy (paneer) and gluten (wheat flour).
Summary
Paneer Parathas are a nutritious and delicious meal option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a wholesome choice for a meal.
Summary
Paneer Parathas are a delicious and nutritious Indian flatbread stuffed with a flavorful mixture of cottage cheese, spices, and herbs. They are easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy these parathas as a hearty meal or snack with your favorite side dishes for a satisfying dining experience.
How did I get this recipe?
I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Paneer Parathas. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the bustling city of Mumbai. My grandmother, who was known for her amazing cooking skills, had invited some of her friends over for a dinner party.
I remember walking into the kitchen and seeing her kneading the dough for the parathas. The smell of the spices and the sizzle of the frying pan filled the air, and I couldn't help but be drawn to the delicious aroma. As I watched her work her magic in the kitchen, I knew that I wanted to learn how to make these delectable parathas myself.
I asked my grandmother where she had learned to make Paneer Parathas, and she told me that she had acquired the recipe from a dear friend of hers who had grown up in Punjab. She explained that Paneer Parathas were a popular dish in the northern regions of India, particularly in Punjab, where they were often served as a hearty breakfast or as a snack.
My grandmother's friend had taught her the traditional way of making Paneer Parathas, using fresh homemade paneer cheese and a blend of aromatic spices. She had also shared some tips and tricks for getting the perfect texture and flavor, which my grandmother had perfected over the years through trial and error.
After that dinner party, I asked my grandmother to teach me how to make Paneer Parathas. She was more than happy to pass down her knowledge and skills to me, and we spent many hours together in the kitchen, kneading dough, grating paneer, and rolling out the parathas.
I learned that the key to making perfect Paneer Parathas lies in the dough. It needs to be soft and pliable, but not too sticky. My grandmother showed me how to mix the flour, water, and a pinch of salt together until it formed a smooth, elastic dough. Then, she let it rest for a while to allow the gluten to relax and the flavors to meld together.
While the dough was resting, we prepared the filling for the parathas. We crumbled fresh paneer cheese and mixed it with chopped onions, green chilies, cilantro, and a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The filling was fragrant and flavorful, with just the right amount of heat and tanginess.
Once the dough had rested, we divided it into small balls and rolled them out into thin circles. My grandmother showed me how to place a spoonful of the paneer mixture in the center of each circle and then fold the dough over to seal the filling inside. We then rolled out the parathas again, careful not to break the dough or let the filling spill out.
As we cooked the Paneer Parathas on a hot griddle, the kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of toasting bread and sizzling cheese. I watched as the parathas puffed up and turned golden brown, their crispy edges and soft, chewy centers calling out to me.
Finally, we sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The Paneer Parathas were warm and comforting, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy paneer cheese melted in my mouth, while the spices danced on my tongue, leaving a lingering warmth that warmed me from the inside out.
As I savored each bite of the Paneer Parathas, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. I had learned a new skill from my grandmother, a skill that had been passed down through generations and was now a part of me. I knew that I would continue to make Paneer Parathas for years to come, sharing the recipe and the memories with my own loved ones.
And so, that is how I learned to make Paneer Parathas, a recipe that holds a special place in my heart and my kitchen. It is a dish that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul, connecting me to my roots and the rich culinary traditions of my Indian heritage.
Categories
| Chapati Flour Recipes | Chili Powder Recipes | Clarified Butter Recipes | Cottage Cheese Recipes | Garam Masala Recipes | Hooked On Heat | Indian Recipes | Indian Vegetarian | Paneer Recipes | Whole Wheat Flour Recipes |