In this recipe blog, we will learn how to make paneer at home and use it in a delicious dish - Paneer Butter Masala.
Paneer is a versatile and delicious Indian cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is made by curdling milk with an acidic agent like lemon juice or vinegar, which separates the curd from the whey. The curd is then pressed to form a firm block of cheese. Paneer is a great source of protein and calcium and is a popular ingredient in vegetarian and vegan diets.
Making Paneer at Home:
Ingredients:
1 liter of whole milk
2-3 tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar
Cheesecloth or muslin cloth
A heavy object to press the cheese (like a cast-iron skillet or a heavy pot)
Instructions:
Pour the milk into a heavy-bottomed pot and heat it on medium heat.
Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from scorching.
When the milk comes to a boil, turn off the heat and add the lemon juice or vinegar. Stir well.
You should see the milk start to curdle immediately. If it doesn't, add more lemon juice or vinegar.
Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the curd to separate from the whey.
Line a strainer with cheesecloth or muslin cloth and pour the mixture into the strainer.
Rinse the curd under cold water to remove any sour taste from the lemon juice or vinegar.
Gather the corners of the cloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
Place the cheesecloth bundle on a plate and place a heavy object on top to press the cheese for about 1 hour.
Remove the paneer from the cheesecloth and cut it into small cubes or any desired shape.
Paneer Butter Masala Recipe:
Ingredients:
200 grams of paneer, cubed
2 tablespoons of butter
1 onion, chopped
2 tomatoes, chopped
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
2-3 garlic cloves, grated
1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder
1/2 teaspoon of coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder
1/2 teaspoon of garam masala powder
Salt, to taste
1/4 cup of cream
Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Heat the butter in a pan and add the chopped onions.
Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
Add the grated ginger and garlic and sauté for a minute.
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn mushy.
Add cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a few minutes.
Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Blend the mixture to a smooth paste.
Heat the pan again and add the blended mixture.
Add the paneer cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes.
Add cream and mix well.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with rice or naan.
Conclusion:
Paneer is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, and making it at home is easy and fun. This paneer recipe is perfect for a comforting meal at home, and it is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy!
