How to make Paneer Paratha at home?

About Paneer Paratha.

Paneer Paratha is a popular Indian flatbread stuffed with a flavorful mixture of crumbled paneer (Indian cottage cheese), spices, and herbs. This delicious and hearty dish is a favorite in Indian cuisine, loved for its combination of soft, flaky paratha and the rich, savory filling. Paneer Paratha can be enjoyed as a breakfast item, a lunch or dinner accompaniment, or even as a wholesome snack. It’s often served with yogurt, pickles, or chutney for added taste and balance of flavors.

Here’s a recipe for making Paneer Paratha at home:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• A pinch of salt
• Water for kneading

For the Paneer Filling:

• 200 grams paneer (cottage cheese), crumbled
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• Cooking oil or ghee (clarified butter) for frying

Instructions:

For the Dough:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, a pinch of salt, and water as needed to knead it into a soft and pliable dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and set it aside for 15-20 minutes.

For the Paneer Filling:

1. In a separate bowl, crumble the paneer and add the finely chopped onion, green chilies, cumin seeds, red chili powder, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, salt, and chopped coriander leaves. Mix well to form a uniform filling mixture.

For Assembling and Cooking:

1. Divide the dough into equal-sized portions and roll them into balls. Similarly, divide the paneer filling mixture into portions.
2. Take a portion of the dough and roll it into a small circle (about 3-4 inches in diameter) on a floured surface.
3. Place a portion of the paneer filling in the center of the rolled dough circle.
4. Bring the edges of the dough together to encase the filling and seal it. Flatten it gently with your hands.
5. Roll out the stuffed dough ball into a paratha (flatbread) using a rolling pin. Aim for a thickness of about 6-7 inches.
6. Heat a griddle or flat pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the rolled-out Paneer Paratha on the griddle.
7. Cook one side until you see small bubbles, then flip it over. Apply a little oil or ghee on the cooked side.
8. Cook the other side until it turns golden brown, applying oil or ghee on this side as well. Press the edges with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
9. Remove the Paneer Paratha from the griddle when both sides are crispy and golden brown.
10. Repeat the process for the remaining dough and filling portions.
11. Serve hot Paneer Parathas with yogurt, pickles, or chutney.

Enjoy your homemade Paneer Parathas as a delicious and satisfying meal!

Nutritional Value.

The nutritional value of Paneer Paratha can vary depending on the size of the paratha and the specific recipe used. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for a typical serving size of one Paneer Paratha:

• Calories: A single Paneer Paratha can contain around 200-250 calories, depending on the size and cooking method.
• Protein: Paneer Paratha is a good source of protein, providing approximately 8-10 grams of protein per serving, primarily from the paneer (cottage cheese) filling.
• Carbohydrates: Each paratha typically contains around 20-25 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the whole wheat flour used in the dough.
• Dietary Fiber: It contains a moderate amount of dietary fiber, about 2-3 grams, mainly from the whole wheat flour.
• Fat: Paneer Paratha can have around 8-10 grams of fat, primarily from the cooking oil or ghee used for frying and the paneer filling.
• Calcium: It’s a good source of calcium due to the presence of paneer, providing approximately 150-200 mg of calcium per serving.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Paneer Paratha contributes various vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, vitamin C, iron, and phosphorus from the whole wheat flour, paneer, and spices.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors like the size of the paratha, the amount of filling used, and the cooking method. Additionally, the use of oil or ghee for frying can impact the calorie and fat content.

Health Benefits.

Paneer Paratha offers several health benefits due to its nutritious ingredients and preparation. Here are some of the health benefits associated with Paneer Paratha:

1. Rich in Protein: Paneer Paratha is a protein-rich dish due to the paneer (cottage cheese) filling. Protein is essential for muscle repair, tissue growth, and overall body function.
2. Calcium for Bone Health: Paneer is a good source of calcium, which is vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth. This can contribute to better bone health, especially in growing children and older adults.
3. Fiber from Whole Wheat: The use of whole wheat flour in the dough provides dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
4. Balanced Nutrients: Paneer Paratha combines protein from paneer, carbohydrates from wheat flour, and essential vitamins and minerals from spices, offering a balanced mix of nutrients.
5. Energy Source: It provides sustained energy due to the combination of carbohydrates and protein, making it a filling and satisfying meal.
6. Vitamins and Minerals: The dish contains various vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, vitamin C, iron, and phosphorus, contributing to overall well-being.
7. Vegetarian Protein Source: It offers a tasty vegetarian protein option, making it suitable for vegetarians and those looking to reduce their meat consumption.
8. Customizable: You can customize the spiciness and flavor of Paneer Paratha to suit your taste preferences and dietary requirements.
9. Wholesome Meal: Paneer Paratha can be a complete and wholesome meal when paired with yogurt, pickles, or chutney, providing a well-rounded taste experience.
10. Controlled Ingredients: When prepared at home, you have control over the quality of ingredients and cooking methods, making it a healthier choice compared to processed foods.

While Paneer Paratha offers several health benefits, it’s essential to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The nutritional value may also vary based on factors such as portion size and cooking methods.

Tips and Tricks.

Here are some tips and tricks to make delicious Paneer Parathas:

1. Fresh Paneer: Use fresh and soft paneer (cottage cheese) for the filling to ensure a creamy texture and rich flavor.
2. Knead the Dough Well: Ensure that the dough for the parathas is soft and pliable by kneading it thoroughly. Add a little oil or ghee to the dough for added softness.
3. Spice Level: Adjust the spiciness of the filling to your taste by varying the amount of green chilies or red chili powder.
4. Even Filling Distribution: When adding the paneer filling to the rolled-out dough, ensure even distribution for a consistent taste in each bite.
5. Seal Properly: Seal the edges of the stuffed dough ball securely to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
6. Rolling Technique: Roll out the stuffed dough gently and evenly to avoid tearing. Use a light hand when rolling.
7. Heat Control: Preheat the griddle or pan over medium-high heat. Cooking on too high heat can lead to uneven cooking or burning.
8. Use a Non-Stick Pan: If possible, use a non-stick pan or griddle to minimize the use of oil or ghee while cooking.
9. Oil or Ghee: Apply a small amount of oil or ghee on both sides of the paratha while cooking to make it crisp and flavorful.
10. Press While Cooking: Use a spatula to gently press the paratha while cooking to ensure even browning and to make it flaky.
11. Serve Hot: Paneer Paratha tastes best when served hot off the griddle. Serve it immediately with your choice of condiments.
12. Variations: Experiment with different spices, herbs, and vegetables in the filling to create unique variations of Paneer Paratha.

With these tips and tricks, you can master the art of making Paneer Parathas that are both delicious and satisfying.

Serving Suggestions.

Paneer Paratha is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy Paneer Paratha:

1. Yogurt: Serve Paneer Paratha with plain yogurt or raita (yogurt with spices and herbs) for a cooling and complementary side.
2. Pickles: Enjoy it with a side of Indian pickles, like mango pickle or mixed vegetable pickle, for an added burst of flavor.
3. Chutney: Pair Paneer Paratha with green chutney (coriander and mint sauce) or tamarind chutney for a tangy kick.
4. Salad: Serve a fresh, crisp salad on the side to add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the paratha.
5. Tomato Ketchup: For a kid-friendly option, offer tomato ketchup or a mild dipping sauce.
6. Onion Rings: Top your Paneer Paratha with crispy fried onion rings for added texture and flavor.
7. Sliced Onions: Garnish with thinly sliced onions sprinkled with a pinch of salt and lemon juice for a simple yet tasty accompaniment.
8. Curd-Based Side Dishes: Paneer Paratha goes well with dishes like kadhi (spiced yogurt-based curry) or aloo raita (yogurt with spiced potatoes).
9. Butter or Ghee: For an extra indulgent touch, top your Paneer Paratha with a small amount of melted butter or ghee before serving.
10. Mixed Vegetables: Serve with sautéed or grilled mixed vegetables for a wholesome and balanced meal.

Feel free to mix and match these serving suggestions to create a meal that suits your taste and preferences. Paneer Paratha is versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making it a delightful and satisfying meal.

FAQs.