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Paneer Do Pyaza - Authentic North Indian Paneer Dish with Double Onion Delight

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    ChefPandas
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🍲 About This Dish

Paneer Do Pyaza is a beloved dish hailing from North India, known for its rich flavors and unique preparation method. The name "Do Pyaza" translates to "double onion," highlighting the significant use of onions in this dish. It is a medium-spiced curry that beautifully showcases the versatility of paneer, a fresh Indian cheese widely used in vegetarian cooking.

🌶️ Ingredients Overview

  • Paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
  • Onions (Pyaaz)
  • Tomatoes (Tamatar)
  • Ginger (Adrak) and Garlic (Lehsun) paste
  • Green Chilies (Hari Mirch)
  • Cumin Seeds (Jeera)
  • Garam Masala
  • Turmeric Powder (Haldi)
  • Coriander Powder (Dhaniya)
  • Fresh Cream
  • Oil
  • Salt

✨ What Makes It Special

In North India, Paneer Do Pyaza is prepared with a generous amount of onions, adding a unique sweetness and texture to the dish. Variations of this recipe can be found across India, with some regions using different spice combinations or adding vegetables like bell peppers or peas.

📝 Ingredients

  • 250g Paneer, cubed
  • 2 large Onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 Tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 tbsp Ginger-Garlic paste
  • 2 Green Chilies, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
  • 1 tsp Garam Masala
  • 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder
  • 1 tsp Coriander Powder
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Cream
  • 2 tbsp Oil
  • Salt to taste

🥄 Spice Blend (Masala)

To make the Garam Masala:

  • 1-inch Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini)
  • 3-4 Cloves (Laung)
  • 3-4 Green Cardamom Pods (Elaichi)
  • 1 Black Cardamom Pod (Badi Elaichi)
  • 1/2 tsp Black Peppercorns (Kali Mirch)
  • 1/2 Nutmeg (Jaiphal), grated

Dry roast the whole spices and grind them into a fine powder.

👨‍🍳 Preparation Method

  1. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds.
  2. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add ginger-garlic paste, green chilies, and sauté for a minute.
  4. Mix in turmeric, coriander powder, and chopped tomatoes.
  5. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and oil separates.
  6. Add paneer cubes, garam masala, and salt. Mix gently.
  7. Pour fresh cream and simmer for a few minutes.
  8. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.

⏰ Timing Guide

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

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Paneer Do Pyaza pairs perfectly with fluffy naan bread, steamed basmati rice, or even simple jeera rice. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot for a delightful dining experience.

💭 Chef's Notes

For a richer flavor, you can marinate the paneer cubes in yogurt and spices before adding them to the curry. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference, and feel free to add a dash of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for an extra flavor dimension.

📦 Storage

Paneer Do Pyaza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain the consistency.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of Paneer Do Pyaza, a classic North Indian dish that showcases the beauty of paneer and the art of Indian spice blending.