The Paneer Pasanda Recipe is a luxurious North Indian dish made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) stuffed and simmered in a rich, creamy gravy. Traditionally served in restaurants and for festive occasions, this dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Soft paneer slices are filled with spiced stuffing, fried to perfection, and drenched in a smooth, nutty gravy. Whether you serve it with naan, paratha, or basmati rice, Paneer Pasanda promises to elevate your meal with its indulgent taste and royal feel.
Why is it Called “Paneer Pasanda”?
The term Paneer Pasanda comes from the word pasanda, which translates to “favorite” in Hindi. This dish was a favorite in royal kitchens, where rich gravies and stuffed foods were a mark of indulgence. The stuffed paneer slices represent the dish’s luxurious nature, making it a sought-after delicacy in restaurants and special occasions. Over time, Paneer Pasanda has become synonymous with festive meals and celebrations, symbolizing a blend of traditional Indian flavors and sophisticated cooking techniques.
How Should Paneer Pasanda Taste?
A well-made Paneer Pasanda offers a creamy, mildly spiced taste with a nutty undertone from the use of cashews and almonds. The paneer is soft on the inside, with a crispy outer layer from frying. The rich gravy, made with tomatoes, onions, and aromatic spices, has a slight sweetness balanced by the warmth of garam masala. Every bite provides a combination of creamy richness, delicate spices, and tender paneer, making it an irresistible dish perfect for indulgent meals.
How to Make it Super Yummy or Perfect?
To make the best Paneer Pasanda, follow these expert tips:
- Use Fresh Paneer: Fresh paneer ensures a soft, creamy texture.
- Prepare a Flavorful Stuffing: Use a mix of dry fruits and spices for the stuffing.
- Fry the Paneer Gently: Fry on medium heat to achieve a crispy texture without overcooking.
- Blend the Gravy Smoothly: A smooth gravy gives the dish a restaurant-quality finish.
- Finish with Cream: A touch of cream at the end enhances the richness of the gravy.
Read More: Delicious Potato Curry Recipe: A Simple and Flavorful Delight
Paneer Pasanda Recipe
Equipment
- Frying pan
- Blender
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
For the Paneer:
- 200 gm paneer (sliced into thick pieces)
- 2 tbsp oil for frying
For Stuffing:
- 2 tbsp crushed cashews and almonds
- 1 tsp grated paneer
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- Salt to taste
For Gravy:
- 2 onions (chopped)
- 3 tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder
- 1/4 cup fresh cream
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Stuffed Paneer:
- Mix crushed nuts, grated paneer, cardamom powder, and salt to make the stuffing.
- Cut each paneer slice halfway to create a pocket and fill it with the prepared stuffing.
Fry the Paneer:
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry the stuffed paneer pieces until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
Make the Gravy:
- In the same pan, add cumin seeds and sauté until fragrant.
- Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Add tomato puree, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates.
Blend the Gravy:
- Let the mixture cool, then blend it into a smooth puree.
Simmer the Paneer in Gravy:
- Return the gravy to the pan and add the fried paneer slices.
- Simmer for 10 minutes on low heat.
Finish with Cream:
- Stir in fresh cream and garam masala. Simmer for 2 more minutes.
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with naan, paratha, or basmati rice.
Notes
- Variation: Add raisins to the stuffing for a sweeter taste.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Serving Tip: Pair with garlic naan or jeera rice for the best experience.
Conclusion
This Paneer Pasanda Recipe is the perfect dish for special occasions or indulgent meals. The combination of stuffed paneer and creamy gravy offers a luxurious experience that is sure to impress your guests. Serve it with naan, paratha, or rice, and enjoy the richness of this royal delicacy. Try it today to bring the flavors of fine dining to your home!
