Afghani Paneer, a dish that seamlessly blends rich flavours with wholesome ingredients, is a culinary delight worth savouring. This dish is inspired by the rich flavours of Afghan cuisine and has gained popularity in India and beyond for its creamy texture and aromatic spices. Afghani Paneer is a rich and delicious paneer recipe that celebrates the union of flavours, textures, and wholesome ingredients. But we found a healthier version of this delicacy that is too tempting to resist. Paneer is fried without oil, and the gravy is healthier than the usual gravy used. Whether you're looking for a satisfying meal or a nutritious option to add to your culinary repertoire, this recipe ticks all the boxes.
Also Read: Indian Cooking Tips: How To Make Ajwaini Paneer - A Spicy And Flavourful North-Indian Sabzi
Why Choose Afghani Paneer for a Healthy Meal?
Afghani Paneer offers a perfect balance of taste and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome meal. Here's why:
- High Protein Content: Paneer, or cottage cheese, is the star ingredient of this dish and is packed with protein, making it a satiating option for vegetarians and meat lovers alike.
- Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: From the aromatic spices to the fresh herbs and cashews, every component of Afghani Paneer contributes essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to the dish.
- Low in Unhealthy Fats: By using hung curd instead of heavy cream or butter, this recipe keeps unhealthy fats in check without compromising on the creamy texture and indulgent taste.
- Delicious and Wholesome: Afghani Paneer proves that healthy eating doesn't have to be bland or boring. With its rich flavours and creamy texture, it satisfies cravings while nourishing the body from within.
Can't wait to try out this creamy paneer gravy recipe? The recipe video shared on the Instagram page 'mynutritionpalette' will help you easily recreate it at home. Watch the recipe video here:
Also Read: Watch: Want A Simple, Unique Paneer Recipe? Try This 15-Min Paneer Tomato Curry
How To Make Healthy Afghani Paneer: Recipe In 6 Simple Steps
Step 1. Marinate the Paneer: Begin by marinating cubes of paneer in a paste made from freshly ground ginger and garlic. This step infuses the paneer with a robust flavour base.
Step 2. Create the Flavourful Base: Heat a teaspoon of oil in a pan and add a generous amount of ginger-garlic paste, along with finely chopped green chillies, onions, soaked cashews, and fresh coriander leaves and stems. Saute the ingredients until they release their aroma and turn golden brown.
Step 3. Blend to Perfection: Transfer the sauteed mixture to a blender and grind it into a smooth paste. This forms the foundation of the rich and creamy gravy that envelops the paneer cubes.
Step 4. Prepare the Yogurt Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine hung curd with a blend of aromatic spices such as turmeric, cumin powder, garam masala, coriander powder, and rock salt. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to create a flavorful yoghurt base.
Step 5. Cook the Dish: Heat a teaspoon of oil in a pan and add whole spices like bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, and green cardamom. Then, add the green paste prepared earlier along with the yoghurt mixture. Adjust the consistency of the gravy by adding a little water as needed.
Step 6. Finishing Touches: Once the gravy is cooked to perfection, add the marinated paneer cubes to the pan. Gently stir to coat the paneer with the creamy sauce. Finally, sprinkle crushed kasuri methi over the dish to enhance its aroma and flavour.
Give this creamy paneer recipe a try and experience the goodness of restaurant-style flavours right in your kitchen!