Malai Paneer

Malai Paneer is a rich and creamy paneer recipe that’s perfect for those who enjoy mild, flavorful dishes. Made with yogurt and cream, this dish has a smooth texture. It has lower spice levels. This makes it ideal for kids and anyone preferring a milder taste. The subtle blend of spices enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish. Malai Paneer pairs perfectly with any Indian bread like naan, roti, or paratha, creating a delightful and satisfying meal. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients for Malai Paneer

• Oil (4 tablespoons): Used for sautéing and shallow frying the paneer, giving the dish a golden finish.
• Onion Paste: Adds sweetness and depth to the gravy, forming the base of the dish.
• Cashew Paste: Provides a creamy texture and rich flavor to the gravy, enhancing its richness.
• Ginger Garlic Paste: Adds warmth and aromatic flavor, balancing the creaminess with a hint of spice.
• Coriander Powder: Adds a subtle earthy taste, blending well with other spices in the dish.
• Yogurt: Brings a tangy richness and helps in tenderizing the ingredients while maintaining a smooth texture.
• Green Chilli Paste: Adds a mild heat, balancing the creaminess without overpowering the dish.
• Black Pepper Powder: Adds a gentle spice and enhances the overall flavor profile of the gravy.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg Powder: Lends a warm, slightly sweet, and fragrant note to the dish.
• Cream: Adds a luxurious, smooth texture and balances the spices, making the dish rich and kid-friendly.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, ensuring the dish is well-seasoned.
• Mace Powder: Contributes a delicate spiciness, adding complexity to the flavor.
• Kasuri Methi: Adds a hint of bitterness and enhances the aroma, giving the dish a distinct, earthy flavor.
• Cardamom Powder: Adds a fragrant, sweet aroma, rounding off the spice mix with a delicate finish.
• Paneer: The star ingredient, shallow-fried until golden and added to the creamy gravy, providing a soft and rich texture.

Method

• To make Malai Paneer, start by heating 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan. Add onion paste and sauté until golden. Next, add cashew paste and ginger-garlic paste, cooking until the raw aroma fades. Stir in coriander powder and yogurt, then mix well. Add some water and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes.
• For flavour, mix in green chilli paste, black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg powder. Then, add cream, salt, mace powder, and kasuri methi, stirring everything together. Add a dash of cardamom powder, cook for 3-4 minutes, and switch off the heat.
• In a separate pan, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil. Cut paneer into your preferred shape and shallow fry until golden on both sides. Finally, combine the fried paneer with the creamy gravy, mixing well to coat the paneer evenly. Your rich, flavourful Malai Paneer is ready to serve!

Pro tips for best Malai Paneer

• Soften the Paneer: If using store-bought paneer, soak the pieces in warm water for 10-15 minutes. This helps to keep them soft and tender before frying.
• Cashew Paste: For a smoother gravy, soak cashews in warm water for 15-20 minutes before blending. This helps achieve a creamier texture.
• Balancing Yogurt: Whisk the yogurt before adding it to the gravy to avoid curdling. You can also bring the gravy to a lower heat when mixing yogurt to maintain a smooth consistency.
• Creamy Texture: Don’t skip the cream—it adds a luxurious richness. If you want a lighter version, you can reduce the amount or use milk, but cream provides a velvety finish.
• Layering Flavors: Toast the kasuri methi in a dry pan before adding it to the gravy. This releases its aroma and enhances the dish’s complexity.
• Even Frying: Shallow-fry the paneer on medium heat. High heat can make it tough, so patience here ensures a golden crust with a soft interior.
• Resting the Gravy: After cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the paneer to absorb the flavors from the gravy.

Reasons to try this Malai Paneer

• Rich, Creamy Texture: Cream, cashew paste, and yogurt combine to create a luxurious, velvety gravy. This gravy is ideal for those who enjoy rich and comforting dishes.
• Balanced Spices: This recipe blends aromatic spices like cinnamon, cardamom, mace, and nutmeg. These spices give the dish a fragrant, warm flavor profile. This complements the mildness of paneer.
• Protein-Packed: Paneer is a great source of protein, especially for vegetarians. Pairing it with a creamy, spiced gravy makes for a satisfying and nourishing meal.
• Customizable Heat: You can control the level of spice with green chilli paste and black pepper. This allows you to adjust the heat to suit your preference.
• Restaurant-Style Dish at Home: This dish offers a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your own kitchen. It is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a special meal.
• Versatile Pairing: It pairs beautifully with naan, roti, or rice, making it a versatile dish that can complement a variety of Indian breads or grains.
• Indulgent Yet Nutritious: It’s rich in flavor. The use of yogurt and cashews adds a wholesome touch. They offer healthy fats and probiotics alongside the creaminess.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: The intricate blend of spices and creamy texture makes this a dish ideal for celebrations, gatherings, or festive meals.

This dish is a must-try for anyone who enjoys bold flavors, creamy textures, and the richness of Indian cuisine!

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