Achaari Paneer Recipe
Achaari Paneer is a delicious North Indian dish made with soft paneer cubes cooked in a spicy and tangy pickle-flavored gravy. It is a perfect dish for spice lovers and pairs well with roti or rice.
Ingredients
- 250 gram paneer (cottage cheese), cut into cubes
- 2 tbsp mustard oil
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp fennel seeds
- ½ tsp nigella seeds (kalonji)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, pureed
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp achar masala (pickling spice mix)
- 2 tbsp yogurt
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped
Instructions
- Marinate the Paneer:Mix paneer cubes with yogurt, red chili powder, turmeric, and salt. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Achaari Masala: Heat mustard oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds, fennel seeds, nigella seeds, and cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
- Cook the Masala: Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Then add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
- Add Tomato Puree: Pour in the tomato puree, and cook until oil separates.
- Spice it Up: Add coriander powder, garam masala, and achar masala. Stir well.
- Cook the Paneer: Add marinated paneer cubes and mix gently so they are well coated with the masala.
- Final Touch: Add lemon juice, mix, and garnish with fresh coriander. Serve hot with naan or rice.
Notes
- Mustard oil enhances the authentic taste, but you can use any cooking oil if preferred.
- Adjust spices based on your taste preference.