When it comes to Indian cuisine, one ingredient that stands out for its versatility and widespread use is paneer. Paneer is a fresh cheese that is commonly used in Indian cooking, especially in vegetarian dishes. While it may resemble cottage cheese in texture, paneer is firmer and has a mild, creamy flavor that makes it an ideal ingredient for a wide range of dishes.
Paneer can be made at home using milk, lemon juice, or vinegar to curdle the milk, and then the curd is drained and pressed to form a solid block. It can also be purchased at most Indian grocery stores and some supermarkets. Once you have paneer in hand, there are countless ways to use it in your cooking. Here are just a few examples:
- Saag Paneer
Saag paneer is a classic Indian dish made with pureed spinach and cubes of paneer. The spinach is usually cooked with onions, garlic, ginger, and spices, and then pureed into a silky sauce. The paneer is added at the end and gently simmered in the sauce until heated through. This dish is typically served with naan or rice and is a vegetarian favorite.
- Paneer Tikka Masala
If you’re a fan of chicken tikka masala, you’ll love paneer tikka masala. This dish is made with marinated cubes of paneer that are grilled or baked until slightly charred and then simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. The sauce is flavored with a blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, and finished with cream or yogurt. This is another popular vegetarian dish that is often served with rice or naan.
- Palak Paneer Pizza
Paneer isn’t just for traditional Indian dishes – it can also be used to add a unique twist to Western-style dishes. Palak paneer pizza is a great example. This pizza is topped with a creamy spinach sauce (similar to the saag paneer mentioned earlier) and cubes of paneer. The pizza crust can be made from scratch or purchased pre-made, and the pizza is typically baked in a hot oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Paneer Bhurji
Paneer bhurji is a dish that is similar in texture to scrambled eggs, but made with crumbled paneer instead. The paneer is cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices until heated through and slightly crispy. This dish is often served for breakfast or brunch, but can be enjoyed at any time of day.
- Paneer Kebabs
Soft paneer can also be used to make vegetarian kebabs that are just as flavorful as their meat-based counterparts. The paneer is marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, then skewered with vegetables like bell peppers and onions and grilled or baked until slightly charred. These kebabs are perfect for a summer barbecue or as a fun appetizer.
These are just a few examples of the many ways Pazhasi paneer can be used in cooking. Its versatility and mild flavor make it an ideal ingredient for both traditional Indian dishes and creative Western-inspired recipes. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to mix up your cooking routine, paneer is a great ingredient to keep on hand.