Whether or not you have fulfilled your life-long dream to visit Kashmir, you have all tried at least one Kashmiri dish. From Kashmiri dum aloo, to rogan josh to yakhni pulao- the list of popular Kashmiri dishes is endless. And just when you start finding a pattern or try to stereotype it, a dish comes and takes you by surprise for its unique qualities. On such dish is Methi chaman or Methi paneer, while Kashmiri cuisine does boast of rich and robust meat preparations, the extensive range of vegetarian dishes is also super fascinating.
(Also Read: 11 Best Paneer Recipes | Easy Paneer Recipes | Popular Cottage Cheese Recipes)
Methi chaman is a toothsome blend of methi leaves or fenugreek leaves, fresh cubes of paneer and hot spices. The idea of eating seasonal and local food is gaining quite some momentum in the world of health and nutrition. As we brace ourselves for the winters that is upon us, it would be a good idea to explore and experiment with the winter greens like methi. Methi leaves have a slightly bitter taste, that goes excellently well with paneer. The choice of spices further elevates the taste of the dish.
What sets this dish apart is the softness of paneer, so make sure you only choose the freshest quality of paneer. Cut them in cubes, fry them golden brown. You can use ghee for more richness. Chef Niru Gupta also recommends soaking your paneer in milk to keep it soft.
(Also Read: Methi Muthia, A Popular Gujarati Snack, Can Fill In Your Healthy Snack Menu (Watch Recipe Video)
There are many vegetarian dishes in Kashmiri cuisine
To make the masala, make sure you chop the fenugreek leaves and wash them well to make sure it is rid of dirt and pest. It is recommended that in season, that you cook your greens or at least boil or gently sautee them- to make sure there is no risk of contamination. Strain the chopped leaves. Fry the leaves in a little bit of oil, season it with rest of the spices. Cook till it starts to leave a little bit of water, then add the paneer that you had just fried, bring it boil. Reduce the flame, cook till gravy thickens, garnish with nuts and raisins and serve hot.
Fenugreek leaves are slightly bitter in taste
This is an excellent recipe that will make greens tempting even for the little fussy-eaters at your place. Here's the recipe of methi chaman on NDTV Food. Try and let us know.
(This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.)