How to make Paneer Pasanda at home?

About Paneer Pasanda.

Paneer Pasanda is a delectable Indian vegetarian dish that boasts rich flavors and a creamy texture. This dish features tender slices of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) that are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of nuts and spices, and then simmered in a luscious tomato-based gravy. Paneer Pasanda is known for its indulgent taste and is often reserved for special occasions or celebrations.

The dish typically begins with marinating the paneer slices in a spiced yogurt mixture, which imparts a delightful tanginess to the cheese. After marination, the paneer slices are stuffed with a mixture of finely chopped nuts like cashews and almonds, along with aromatic spices like cardamom and cloves. These stuffed paneer slices are then shallow-fried until they develop a golden crust, enhancing both texture and flavor.

The creamy tomato gravy for Paneer Pasanda is prepared by simmering a blend of tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices. This gravy is enriched with heavy cream or cashew paste, which gives the dish its characteristic creamy consistency and a hint of sweetness. The stuffed and fried paneer slices are added to this luxurious gravy, allowing them to absorb the flavors and become tender.

Paneer Pasanda is often garnished with fresh coriander leaves or chopped nuts, adding a touch of freshness and crunch to the dish. It is typically served with naan, roti, or rice, making it a popular choice in Indian restaurants and homes alike.

With its blend of succulent paneer, aromatic spices, and creamy tomato gravy, Paneer Pasanda is a beloved dish that satisfies both the palate and the senses, making it a cherished part of Indian cuisine.

Here’s a step-by-step recipe for making Paneer Pasanda:

Ingredients:

For Marination:

• 250 grams paneer (cottage cheese), cut into slices
• 1/2 cup thick yogurt
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste

For the Stuffing:

• 2 tablespoons cashews, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons almonds, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon green cardamom powder
• A pinch of clove powder
• Salt to taste

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 large tomatoes, pureed
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or cashew paste
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh coriander leaves and chopped nuts for garnish

Instructions:

1. Marinating the Paneer:

• In a bowl, combine yogurt, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt.
• Dip the paneer slices into the yogurt mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes.

2. Preparing the Stuffing:

• In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped cashews, almonds, cardamom powder, clove powder, and salt. This mixture will be used for stuffing the paneer.

3. Stuffing the Paneer:

• Take a marinated paneer slice and place a small amount of the nut and spice mixture on it.
• Sandwich the paneer slice with another slice to form a stuffed paneer sandwich. Press gently to seal.
• Repeat this process with all the paneer slices.

4. Shallow Frying the Paneer:

• Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Place the stuffed paneer slices in the hot oil and shallow fry them until they turn golden brown on both sides.
• Remove the fried paneer slices and place them on a paper towel to remove excess oil.

5. Making the Gravy:

• In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed.
• Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
• Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for a few minutes until the raw smell disappears.
• Add tomato puree, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook the mixture until the oil begins to separate from the spices.

6. Creamy Finish:

• Reduce the heat and add heavy cream or cashew paste. Stir well to combine.
• Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

7. Assembling Paneer Pasanda:

• Place the fried stuffed paneer slices into the simmering gravy.
• Allow them to simmer in the gravy for a few minutes, ensuring they absorb the flavors.

8. Garnish and Serve:

• Just before serving, add a tablespoon of butter to the dish.
• Garnish Paneer Pasanda with fresh coriander leaves and chopped nuts.

Serve Paneer Pasanda hot with naan, roti, or rice. Enjoy your homemade Paneer Pasanda!

Nutritional Value.

The nutritional value of Paneer Pasanda can vary depending on the specific recipe and serving size. However, here’s a general overview of the nutritional components you can expect in a typical serving of Paneer Pasanda:

Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on the ingredients used and portion size.

1. Calories: A single serving of Paneer Pasanda (approximately 1 cup) can provide around 350-400 calories.

2. Protein: Paneer, being the primary ingredient, is a rich source of protein. A serving of Paneer Pasanda may contain about 10-15 grams of protein.

3. Fat: The dish is known for its creamy texture, which is achieved through the use of heavy cream or cashew paste. As a result, a serving may contain around 20-25 grams of fat, with both saturated and unsaturated fats.

4. Carbohydrates: Paneer Pasanda contains carbohydrates primarily from the yogurt used for marination and the tomato gravy. A serving may have 10-15 grams of carbohydrates.

5. Fiber: This dish typically does not contain much fiber, as it is not primarily vegetable-based.

6. Vitamins and Minerals: Paneer provides essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. Additionally, spices used in the recipe may contribute small amounts of vitamins and minerals.

7. Sodium: The sodium content can vary based on the amount of salt used during preparation. A serving may contain around 600-800 milligrams of sodium.

8. Other Nutrients: Paneer Pasanda may also provide small amounts of dietary fiber, potassium, iron, and other micronutrients from the spices and ingredients used.

It’s important to note that Paneer Pasanda is a relatively rich and indulgent dish due to its creamy gravy and use of paneer. While it’s a flavorful and satisfying option for occasional consumption, it’s advisable to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet, especially if you’re conscious of your calorie and fat intake. You can also make adjustments to the recipe, such as using a lower-fat cream alternative or reducing the amount of oil or ghee, to make it slightly healthier if desired.

Health Benefits.

Paneer Pasanda, while delicious, is a dish that tends to be rich and indulgent due to its creamy gravy and fried paneer slices. While it may not be considered a health food, it does offer some potential health benefits when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here are a few health benefits of Paneer Pasanda:

1. Good Source of Protein: Paneer, the main ingredient in Paneer Pasanda, is a rich source of high-quality protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining overall health.
2. Calcium and Vitamin D: Paneer is also a good source of calcium and vitamin D, which are crucial for strong bones and teeth. Consuming Paneer Pasanda can help contribute to your daily calcium intake.
3. Nutrient-Rich Spices: The dish incorporates various spices like cardamom, cloves, and turmeric, which can have potential health benefits. For example, turmeric contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
4. Nuts for Healthy Fats: The use of nuts like cashews and almonds in the stuffing of Paneer Pasanda adds healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to the dish. These fats can support overall health and provide sustained energy.
5. Moderate Source of Energy: Paneer Pasanda is a calorie-dense dish, which can be beneficial for individuals with higher energy requirements or those looking to gain weight. However, portion control is important to avoid excessive calorie intake.
6. Satiety: The combination of protein and fat in Paneer Pasanda can promote a feeling of fullness and satiety, which may help control appetite and prevent overeating.

It’s essential to enjoy Paneer Pasanda in moderation due to its high fat and calorie content. Overconsumption may contribute to weight gain and other health issues if not balanced with a variety of nutrient-rich foods. You can make Paneer Pasanda healthier by using low-fat dairy options or reducing the amount of oil and cream used in the recipe. Additionally, serving it with whole-grain roti or brown rice can add more fiber and nutrients to the meal.

Ultimately, while Paneer Pasanda can offer some nutritional benefits, it should be part of a diverse and balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources for optimal health.

Tips and Tricks.

Making Paneer Pasanda can be a delightful culinary adventure. Here are some tips and tricks to help you prepare this dish to perfection:

1. Use Fresh Paneer:

• Start with fresh paneer for the best texture and flavor. You can make your own paneer at home or buy it from a trusted source.

2. Marinate the Paneer:

• Allow the paneer slices to marinate in the yogurt and spice mixture for at least 15-20 minutes. This helps infuse flavor and tenderize the paneer.

3. Stuff Carefully:

• When stuffing the paneer slices, be gentle to avoid breaking them. Use a small amount of the nut and spice mixture for each slice.

4. Fry with Care:

• Shallow fry the stuffed paneer slices over medium heat until they are golden brown on both sides. Be patient and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even frying.

5. Control Oil Temperature:

• Maintain a consistent oil temperature while frying to prevent the paneer from becoming too oily or undercooked.

6. Make a Smooth Gravy:

• Blend the tomato puree well to ensure a smooth and silky gravy. This helps achieve a restaurant-quality finish.

7. Adjust Creaminess:

• You can control the level of creaminess in the gravy by adjusting the amount of heavy cream or cashew paste. For a lighter version, use a low-fat cream alternative.

8. Balance Spices:

• Adjust the amount of red chili powder and other spices to your preferred level of spiciness. Taste the gravy as you go along to ensure it’s balanced to your liking.

9. Fresh Ingredients:

• Use fresh ginger, garlic, and spices for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients can make a significant difference in the final taste of the dish.

10. Garnish Well: – Garnish Paneer Pasanda with fresh coriander leaves and chopped nuts just before serving. This adds a pop of color, freshness, and texture to the dish.

11. Serve Hot: – Paneer Pasanda is best enjoyed hot. Serve it immediately to savor its rich flavors and creamy texture.

12. Accompaniments: – Serve Paneer Pasanda with naan, roti, or rice for a complete meal. A side salad or raita can complement the dish nicely.

13. Customize to Your Taste: – Feel free to adjust the recipe to your personal preferences. You can make it spicier, milder, creamier, or even experiment with different types of nuts for the stuffing.

14. Practice Patience: – Like many Indian dishes, Paneer Pasanda benefits from slow cooking and patience. Allow the gravy to simmer and the flavors to meld for the best results.

With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to preparing a delicious and satisfying Paneer Pasanda that you and your loved ones will enjoy.

Serving Suggestions.

Paneer Pasanda is a rich and flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

1. Indian Bread (Roti or Naan):

• Paneer Pasanda goes wonderfully with Indian bread like roti or naan. The soft and slightly crispy texture of these bread options complements the creamy and saucy nature of the dish.

2. Steamed Basmati Rice:

• Enjoy Paneer Pasanda with fragrant steamed basmati rice. The mild, fluffy rice is an excellent foil for the rich and creamy gravy.

3. Jeera Rice:

• Cumin-flavored jeera rice is another great rice option to serve with Paneer Pasanda. The earthy, aromatic rice pairs nicely with the dish.

4. Pulao:

• Consider serving Paneer Pasanda with a flavorful vegetable or biryani pulao. The combination of the spiced rice and the creamy paneer dish can be truly delightful.

5. Paratha:

• Paneer-stuffed parathas make for a hearty and indulgent combination. These flaky, layered flatbreads enhance the overall dining experience.

6. Salad:

• Balance the richness of Paneer Pasanda with a simple side salad. A cucumber and tomato salad with a sprinkle of chaat masala and lemon juice can provide a refreshing contrast.

7. Raita:

• A cooling cucumber or mint raita can be a refreshing side dish that complements the spicy elements of Paneer Pasanda.

8. Pickles and Chutneys:

• A selection of Indian pickles or chutneys can add an extra layer of flavor and complexity to the meal.

9. Papadums:

• Crispy papadums or poppadoms can be served as a crunchy accompaniment, offering a contrast in texture.

10. Sliced Onions and Lemon Wedges: – Sliced onions sprinkled with a pinch of salt and lemon wedges can be served as a traditional accompaniment to add a burst of freshness to the meal.

11. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: – Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander or mint leaves over the Paneer Pasanda just before serving. This adds a burst of color and an extra layer of flavor.

12. Chopped Nuts: – You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts like cashews or almonds on top of the dish for added texture and richness.

Remember to customize your serving based on your personal preferences and the preferences of your guests. Whether you choose to serve it with bread, rice, or a combination of accompaniments, Paneer Pasanda is sure to be a delightful and satisfying meal.

FAQs.