It is almost impossible to think of a quintessential North Indian spread without two or three classic paneer preparations. Paneer's versatility has made it a popular choice across courses too - you can use the same block of paneer to make the most sizzling starter and the most sinful dessert, all at the same time. Paneer (or cottage cheese) is also one of the best vegetarian sources of protein and is extremely easy to work with. From saunfia chaman of Kashmir to Paneer tikka of Delhi, North India is brimming with options for paneer lovers. Here are some of our favourite recipes.
Here Are 7 North Indian Paneer Recipes That Rule Our Heart:
1. Paneer Butter Masala
Paneer chunks thrown in a rich, creamy, tomato-based gravy, cooked till perfection. The recipe can be called a vegetarian cousin of the famed butter chicken. Pair it with naan or rice and chomp away. Here's a recipe of paneer butter masala.
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2. Kadhai Paneer
Probably one of the most popular paneer recipes of all times, Kadhai paneer, made with an eclectic combination of cottage cheese, hung curd, peppers and garam masala is one decadent treat we can never say no to. Here's a recipe.
3. Saunfia Chaman
'Saunf' is another word for fennel seeds in Hindi and 'Chaman' for paneer. In this recipe, spice infused paneer pieces are dunked in slow-cooked tomato-based gravy. This Kashmiri recipe is sure to tug at your heartstrings. Here's the recipe.
4. Stuffed Malai Kofta
Rich, paneer dumplings tossed in a creamy gravy with hint of chilli, this classic recipe has indulgence written all over it. Pair it with naan or rice with a side of diced onions. Here is a recipe.
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5. Paneer Malpua
It is said that malpua is one of India's oldest known desserts. Here crispy thin paneer pancakes are fried in ghee and dipped in sugar syrup. You can add a dash of saffron to the recipe for a flavourful aroma. Here is a recipe.
6. Paneer Tikka
Marinated cubes of paneer, skewered together with chunky capsicum and onions, baked till perfection. A crowd favourite, paneer tikka has many delish variations, this one here is a classic recipe that appeals to all.
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7. Paneer Pakoda
Our love-affair with chai and pakora is no strange fiction. The lengths to which we can go to ensure we have our pakoras crisp and hot is also worth a chronicle of its own. Paneer pakora is among the most popular pakoras of North India, it is essentially is a deep-fried slice of paneer coated in gram flour batter. It is served with a sprinkling of chaat masala, find the recipe here.
Try these recipe and let us know how you liked it in the comments section below.
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