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About
Paneer Lababdar and Butter Naan is very delicious dish and is easy to make at home. Do make this dish at home by following the steps as stated in this blog. But before making Paneer Lababdar and Butter Naan, let us know some information about this renowned dish.
Paneer Lababdar is a popular North Indian dish made with paneer, a type of Indian cottage cheese, cooked in a rich and creamy tomato-based gravy. It is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is typically served with naan, roti, or rice. The name “lababdar” comes from the Urdu word “lababdar,” which means “strong desire” or “a dish that will leave you craving for more.”
Butter Naan is a popular Indian bread that is soft, fluffy, and buttery. It is made using all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, yogurt, and milk. The dough is rolled out into oval shapes and then baked in a tandoor oven or on a stove-top griddle. It is typically brushed with butter before serving. Butter Naan is a perfect accompaniment to various Indian curries, especially Paneer Lababdar.
Paneer Lababdar recipe:
Ingredients:
- 250 grams paneer, cut into cubes
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 green chillies, chopped
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala powder
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 cup fresh cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp coriander leaves, chopped for garnish
Directions:
- Heat the butter in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once the cumin seeds start to splutter, add chopped onions and green chillies. Sauté till the onions turn golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.
- Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala powder and salt. Mix well and cook for a minute.
- Add paneer cubes and mix gently.
- Pour fresh cream and mix again.
- Cover the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes until the paneer is cooked and the gravy thickens.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with butter naan.
Butter Naan recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Butter, for brushing
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- Add yogurt, milk, and melted butter to the bowl and mix well to form a soft dough.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-6 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rest for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 200°C. Grease a baking sheet with butter.
- Divide the dough into equal sized balls and roll them out into oval shapes. The thickness should be about 1/4 inch.
- Place the naans on the greased baking sheet and brush them with butter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes until they puff up and turn golden brown.
- Brush with more butter and serve hot with Paneer Lababdar or any other curry of your choice.
Nutrional value of Paneer lababdar and Butter Naan
Paneer Lababdar is a rich and creamy dish that is high in protein and fat. Here is the approximate nutritional information for a serving of Paneer Lababdar (200 grams):
- Calories: 440
- Protein: 18 grams
- Fat: 34 grams
- Carbohydrates: 13 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Sugar: 7 grams
- Sodium: 650 milligrams
Butter Naan is a type of Indian bread that is high in carbohydrates and fat. Here is the approximate nutritional information for one Butter Naan (60 grams):
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 5 grams
- Fat: 6 grams
- Carbohydrates: 31 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 300 milligrams
It is important to note that these nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and cooking methods used. It is always a good idea to enjoy these dishes in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Health Benefits
Paneer Lababdar is a popular Indian vegetarian dish made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a rich and creamy tomato-based gravy. It offers several health benefits, such as being a good source of protein, calcium, and phosphorus from the paneer. The tomatoes in the gravy provide antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C, which support immune health.
Butter Naan is a traditional Indian bread made from refined flour and topped with ghee (clarified butter). While it is a delicious accompaniment to Paneer Lababdar, it is important to enjoy it in moderation due to its high calorie and saturated fat content. You can opt for whole wheat naan or enjoy smaller portions for a healthier alternative.
When combined, Paneer Lababdar and Butter Naan create a flavorful and satisfying meal. The paneer provides protein and essential nutrients, while the naan adds a delightful texture. Remember to balance your meal with plenty of vegetables and drink water to stay hydrated. Enjoying these dishes as part of a well-rounded diet can contribute to a delicious and nourishing dining experience.
Tips and Tricks
Tips and Tricks for Paneer Lababdar:
- Soft Paneer: To ensure the paneer remains tender, soak it in warm water for 15-20 minutes before adding it to the gravy.
- Tomato Puree: Use ripe and juicy tomatoes to make a smooth and flavorful puree for the base of the gravy.
- Creamy Texture: To achieve a creamy texture, add a dollop of fresh cream or cashew paste to the gravy while simmering.
- Spices: Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. You can add more or less red chili powder, garam masala, and other spices as per preference.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for added aroma and taste.
Tips and Tricks for Butter Naan:
- Soft Dough: Knead the dough well and let it rest for at least 1 hour to achieve a soft and pliable texture.
- Yogurt: Adding yogurt to the dough helps to make the naan fluffy and adds a slight tanginess.
- Cooking: Cook the naan on a hot tandoor or skillet to get the classic bubbly texture and smoky flavor. Brushing with ghee or butter while cooking enhances the taste.
- Variations: Experiment with different toppings like garlic, sesame seeds, or nigella seeds to add extra flavor to the naan.
- Serving: Serve the Butter Naan hot with a brush of melted butter or ghee for a delightful taste.
By following these tips and tricks, you can create a delicious and restaurant-style Paneer Lababdar and Butter Naan at home, perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought paneer for Paneer Lababdar?
Yes, you can use store-bought paneer for Paneer Lababdar. Store-bought paneer is readily available and convenient to use in various dishes, including Paneer Lababdar. However, if you prefer a softer and fresher texture, you can also make homemade paneer for this recipe. Both options will result in a delicious and flavorful dish, so choose whichever suits your preference and time constraints.
What can I serve with Paneer Lababdar?
Paneer Lababdar pairs well with various Indian bread like Butter Naan, Roti, or Paratha. It also goes perfectly with steamed Basmati rice or Jeera rice. To enhance the dining experience, you can serve it with a side of cucumber and onion salad or pickles. The creamy and rich flavors of Paneer Lababdar complement the mildness of bread and rice, creating a satisfying and enjoyable meal.
Can I make Paneer Lababdar in advance?
Yes, you can make Paneer Lababdar in advance. It is a dish that reheats well and retains its flavors. After preparing the gravy and adding paneer, let it cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat the dish on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm. However, it’s best to add fresh cream and garnishes just before serving to maintain their freshness and texture.
Can I use whole wheat flour to make Naan?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour to make Naan. Whole wheat flour is a healthier alternative to all-purpose flour, and it adds a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to the Naan. To make whole wheat Naan, simply substitute whole wheat flour for part or all of the all-purpose flour in your Naan recipe. The result will be a nutritious and delicious bread that complements the flavors of Paneer Lababdar or other Indian dishes.
What other variations of Naan can I try?
There are several delicious variations of Naan that you can try. Some popular options include:
Garlic Naan: Infused with garlic and butter, this aromatic Naan adds an extra layer of flavor to your meal.
Cheese Naan: Sprinkled with grated cheese, this version adds a delightful cheesy twist to the traditional Naan.
Peshawari Naan: Filled with a sweet and nutty mixture of dried fruits and nuts, this Naan is a delightful treat on its own.
These variations can be served alongside Paneer Lababdar or other Indian dishes, adding variety and excitement to your meal.