Paneer Shimla Mirch

Paneer Shimla Mirch Recipe - Vegetarian Indian Dish

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Paneer Shimla Mirch is a delicious and flavorful Indian dish made with paneer (cottage cheese), bell peppers, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices. This vegetarian dish is a popular choice for those looking for a protein-rich and satisfying meal.

History

Paneer Shimla Mirch has its origins in North Indian cuisine, where paneer is a staple ingredient in many dishes. The combination of paneer and bell peppers creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

Ingredients

400 g of paneer (cottage cheese), cut into 1 inch cubes
1 large green bell pepper, chopped
1 large onion, sliced
2 tomatoes, chopped
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tbsp chopped green chillies
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp coriander powder
0.5 tsp red chili powder
0.25 tsp turmeric powder
0.25 tsp cumin powder
salt, to taste
1 cup water
1 tbsp cooking oil
fresh chopped coriander leaves for garnish

How to prepare

In a non-stick pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. Once they start to sizzle, add chopped green chillies and sliced onions.
Fry until the onions start to brown, then add ginger-garlic paste and tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes tenderize and start to pulp, then add coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, and turmeric powder.
Cook for a minute or two until the spices blend in. Add tomato paste and salt, and cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add water and let it come to a boil. Add paneer chunks and bell pepper, cover, and cook for 6-7 minutes until the paneer is done.
Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot over rice or rotis.

Variations

You can add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or potatoes to make it more hearty. You can also add cashew paste or cream for a richer and creamier sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh paneer for the best taste and texture.

- Adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences.

- You can add other vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.

- Be careful not to overcook the paneer, as it can become tough and rubbery.

Serving Suggestions

Paneer Shimla Mirch can be served with rice, rotis, or naan bread. It pairs well with a side of raita or salad.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Paneer Shimla Mirch is to cook the spices well to enhance their flavors. Make sure to cook the paneer just until it is heated through to prevent it from becoming tough.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use tofu instead of paneer for a vegan version of this dish. You can also use different colored bell peppers for a more colorful presentation.

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 paneer and bell peppers before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Paneer Shimla Mirch with fresh coriander leaves or a dollop of cream for a beautiful presentation. Serve it in a colorful bowl or plate for an eye-catching dish.

Pairing Recommendations

Paneer Shimla Mirch pairs well with a side of jeera rice, pulao, or rotis. You can also serve it with a side of dal or salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Paneer Shimla Mirch can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a pan or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Paneer Shimla Mirch contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Paneer Shimla Mirch contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Paneer Shimla Mirch contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Paneer Shimla Mirch contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Paneer is a good source of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12. Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (paneer) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Paneer Shimla Mirch is a nutritious and protein-rich dish that is perfect for a balanced meal. It is high in protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and delicious option for vegetarians.

Summary

Paneer Shimla Mirch is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a vegetarian meal. With its blend of spices and flavors, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this flavorful dish with rice or rotis for a satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Paneer Shimla Mirch. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Patel, in her bustling kitchen. The aroma of spices filled the air, and I could hear the sizzle of onions and peppers on the stove.

Mrs. Patel was a master in the kitchen, and I always admired her skill and passion for cooking. As we chatted and sipped on chai, she suddenly exclaimed, "I have a new recipe to try today, it's called Paneer Shimla Mirch."

Intrigued, I watched as she pulled out a notepad and began to jot down the ingredients and instructions. Paneer, bell peppers, tomatoes, spices... it all sounded so delicious. Mrs. Patel explained that this dish originated from the northern region of India, where paneer (an Indian cottage cheese) and bell peppers were commonly used in cooking.

As she cooked, I observed her every move, taking mental notes on how she chopped the vegetables, sautéed the paneer, and blended the spices together. The rich, vibrant colors of the dish were mesmerizing, and I could already imagine the flavors bursting in my mouth.

Once the Paneer Shimla Mirch was ready, Mrs. Patel served it with steaming hot rotis and a dollop of creamy yogurt. The first bite was a revelation - the soft paneer paired perfectly with the crunchy bell peppers, and the blend of spices was just right. I couldn't get enough of it!

From that moment on, I was determined to learn how to make Paneer Shimla Mirch on my own. Mrs. Patel graciously shared her recipe with me, and I made sure to write it down in my own notepad, along with all the tips and tricks she had shared with me.

Over the years, I perfected my own version of Paneer Shimla Mirch, adding my own twist to the recipe. I experimented with different spices, adjusted the cooking time, and even tried using different types of paneer. Each time I made the dish, it brought back memories of that sunny day in Mrs. Patel's kitchen, where my love for Paneer Shimla Mirch began.

I also learned other recipes from family members, friends, and even strangers I met along the way. Each dish had a story behind it, a connection to its origins and the people who had passed it down through generations. Cooking became not just a hobby for me, but a way to preserve these precious memories and traditions.

As I grew older, I became known in my family as the go-to person for delicious homemade meals. My grandchildren would often come over for Sunday dinners, eagerly awaiting the new dishes I had prepared for them. And of course, Paneer Shimla Mirch was always a favorite among them.

Now, as I sit in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the aroma of spices and the warmth of memories, I realize how much cooking has shaped my life. It has taught me patience, creativity, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. And through each recipe I learned, I carry a piece of the past into the present, keeping traditions alive for future generations to savor and enjoy.