All About Paneer Khurchan Recipe

Paneer Khurchan is a delectable Indian dish that tantalizes taste buds with its rich flavors and unique texture. A beloved vegetarian option, it’s a favorite among paneer (Indian cottage cheese) enthusiasts. The dish involves cooking paneer with an assortment of vibrant spices, onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes.

To prepare Paneer Khurchan, chunks of paneer are sautéed until they acquire a slightly crispy exterior. Onions and bell peppers are then added, contributing crunch and sweetness. The magic lies in the process of “khurchan,” which translates to scraping. As the dish cooks, the paneer is continuously scraped and stirred, resulting in shreds of paneer blending harmoniously with the aromatic medley of vegetables and spices.

The marriage of textures and flavors in Paneer Khurchan is truly delightful. The softness of paneer contrasts with the crispiness of onions and peppers, while the spices infuse the dish with warmth and depth. Often enjoyed with naan, roti, or rice, Paneer Khurchan offers a delightful combination of simplicity and sophistication, making it a must-try for both paneer aficionados and those new to Indian cuisine.

Ingredients Of Paneer Khurchan Recipe:

To start, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients:

• 250g paneer, cut into thin strips or cubes
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 medium bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee
• Salt to taste

Step By Step Instructions Of Paneer Khurchan Recipe:

Step 1: Prepare the Paneer

Cut the paneer into thin strips or cubes. You can adjust the size according to your preference. Keep them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Paneer

In a large pan or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil or ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add the paneer pieces. Gently sauté them until they turn golden brown on all sides. This step adds a nice texture and flavor to the paneer. Once done, remove the paneer from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil or ghee if needed. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds. Then, add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until they turn translucent.

Step 4: Add Spices and Tomatoes

Add the ginger-garlic paste and chopped green chilies to the onions. Sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears. Now, add the coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well. Incorporate the finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and the oil starts to separate from the masala.

Step 5: Cook the Bell Peppers

Add the thinly sliced bell peppers to the pan and stir-fry for a few minutes until they start to soften. The bell peppers should retain some crunch, so avoid overcooking.

Step 6: Incorporate Paneer

Gently reintroduce the sautéed paneer to the pan. Mix well, ensuring that the paneer is coated with the flavorful masala and veggies.

Step 7: Enhance the Flavor

Sprinkle garam masala over the paneer mixture and give it a final mix. Garam masala adds a wonderful aroma and complexity to the dish.

Step 8: Add Fresh Coriander

Turn off the heat and garnish the Paneer Khurchan with chopped fresh coriander leaves. This adds a burst of freshness to the dish.

Step 9: Serve

Your Paneer Khurchan is now ready to be served! It pairs well with naan, roti, paratha, or even steamed rice.

In just a few easy steps, you’ve created a delicious and aromatic Paneer Khurchan that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Enjoy your homemade creation with family and friends!