If you're a fan of Indian cuisine, you'll know that paneer, or Indian cottage cheese, plays a pivotal role in many dishes. Among these, Paneer Burji, a delightful scrambled version of paneer, stands out for its simplicity and rich flavors. Here's an easy guide on how to make paneer burji at home effortlessly!
Ingredients Needed for Paneer Burji
- 250 grams of paneer (crumbled)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 2 medium tomatoes (pureed or finely chopped)
- 1 green chili (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1⁄2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon garam masala
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or ghee
Preparation Steps for Paneer Burji
- Heat the Oil or Ghee: Start by heating oil or ghee in a non-stick pan or skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Sauté Onions and Spices: Add the chopped onions and green chili. Sauté until the onions turn translucent. Mix in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a couple of minutes until the raw smell fades away.
- Add Tomatoes: Add the pureed or chopped tomatoes to the pan, along with salt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Cook until the tomatoes break down and the masala thickens.
- Add Paneer: Reduce the heat to low. Gently add the crumbled paneer into the masala. Mix well to ensure the paneer is well coated with the spices. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Season and Finish: Sprinkle garam masala over the paneer and give it one last gentle stir. Turn off the heat, and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
⚠️ Note: If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a splash of milk or cream towards the end.
Serving Suggestions
Paneer burji can be enjoyed in several ways:
- Serve it hot with freshly made chapati or roti.
- It can be wrapped in a paratha for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
- Use it as a filling in sandwiches or toasted bread.
- Accompany it with paav (bread rolls) for an authentic street food experience.
| Nutritional Benefits | Advantages |
|---|---|
| High Protein Content | Ideal for muscle growth and repair |
| Rich in Calcium | Supports bone health |
| Low in Calories | Great for a healthy diet |
| Vitamins and Minerals | Good source of Vitamin A, B12, Phosphorus, Zinc |
📢 Note: Paneer burji is not just delicious but also nutritious, making it a perfect dish for all age groups.
Can I make paneer burji without tomatoes?
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Yes, you can substitute tomatoes with a little more lemon juice for the tanginess and skip the tomato-based step. Use additional spices to ensure flavor.
Is there a vegan version of paneer burji?
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Replace paneer with crumbled firm tofu or soy paneer to make a vegan version of paneer burji.
What can I do with leftover paneer burji?
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Leftover paneer burji can be refrigerated and used within 2 days. Use it as a filling for parathas, in sandwiches, or even as a topping for pizza.
In closing, making paneer burji at home is not only a breeze but also a journey through the flavors of Indian cuisine. This dish, with its crumbly texture and aromatic spices, brings a taste of the subcontinent’s street food directly to your kitchen table. By following these easy steps, you can master this delightful dish, ensuring that it’s not only delicious but also packs a nutritional punch. Whether served with roti, wrapped in a paratha, or enjoyed on its own, paneer burji is versatile and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. Try experimenting with different spice levels or adding your own touch, like a sprinkle of dried fenugreek leaves or a dollop of butter for richness. Enjoy this culinary adventure and make paneer burji a staple in your home cooking!
