Published on

Methi Paneer Recipe - Authentic North Indian Dish with Paneer and Fenugreek

Authors
  • avatar
    Name
    ChefPandas
    Twitter

🍲 About This Dish

Methi Paneer is a classic North Indian dish that beautifully combines the richness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with the earthy bitterness of fresh fenugreek leaves, known as methi in Hindi. This dish is a testament to the vibrant flavors and aromatic spices that define North Indian cuisine. It is a favorite among vegetarians and paneer lovers for its unique taste profile.

🌶️ Ingredients Overview

  • Paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
  • Fresh fenugreek leaves (methi)
  • Onions (pyaaz)
  • Tomatoes (tamatar)
  • Ginger (adrak)
  • Garlic (lehsun)
  • Green chilies (hari mirch)
  • Turmeric powder (haldi)
  • Coriander powder (dhania powder)
  • Cumin seeds (jeera)
  • Garam masala
  • Salt
  • Oil
  • Water

✨ What Makes It Special

In North India, Methi Paneer is often prepared with a touch of cream or yogurt to enhance its richness. Some variations include the addition of cashew paste for a creamier texture. The dish showcases the use of fresh fenugreek leaves, which impart a distinctive flavor and aroma to the dish. Each region in North India may have its unique twist on this classic recipe, adding to the diversity of flavors in Indian cuisine.

📝 Ingredients

  • 250g paneer, cubed
  • 1 cup fresh fenugreek leaves, chopped
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1-inch ginger, grated
  • 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Water as needed

🥄 Spice Blend (Masala)

To make the spice blend:

  1. Dry roast and grind 1 tsp cumin seeds, 1 tsp coriander seeds, and 2-3 dry red chilies.
  2. Store in an airtight container for future use.

👨‍🍳 Preparation Method

  1. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
  2. Add onions and sauté until golden brown. Add ginger, garlic, and green chilies.
  3. Add tomato puree and cook until oil separates.
  4. Add turmeric, coriander powder, and the prepared spice blend. Cook for a minute.
  5. Add fenugreek leaves and cook for a few minutes.
  6. Add paneer cubes, garam masala, and salt. Mix gently.
  7. Add water as needed for the desired consistency and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  8. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

⏰ Timing Guide

  • Preparation: 15 minutes
  • Cooking: 20 minutes
  • Total: 35 minutes

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Methi Paneer pairs well with warm rotis or steamed rice. It is often served with a side of raita (yogurt-based condiment) and pickles to balance the flavors. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving for a burst of freshness.

💭 Chef's Notes

  • For a richer dish, add a dollop of fresh cream or a spoonful of yogurt towards the end.
  • Adjust the spice levels by adding or reducing the number of green chilies.
  • Use fresh paneer for the best texture and taste.

📦 Storage

Methi Paneer can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving to retain the flavors.

Enjoy the authentic flavors of North India with this aromatic Methi Paneer dish that celebrates the essence of Indian spices and ingredients.