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Paneer Jalfrezi - A Spicy Bengali Delight with Indian Cottage Cheese

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    ChefPandas
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🍲 About This Dish

Paneer Jalfrezi is a popular dish that hails from the vibrant culinary landscape of Bengal, known for its rich history and diverse flavors. This dish combines the succulent texture of paneer with a medley of aromatic spices, creating a tantalizing experience for the taste buds. In Bengal, where food is not just sustenance but a way of life, Paneer Jalfrezi holds a special place on dining tables during festive occasions and family gatherings.

🌶️ Ingredients Overview

  • Paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
  • Bell peppers (capsicum)
  • Onions
  • Tomatoes
  • Ginger (Adrak)
  • Garlic (Lehsun)
  • Green chilies (Hari Mirch)
  • Cumin seeds (Jeera)
  • Coriander powder (Dhania)
  • Turmeric powder (Haldi)
  • Red chili powder (Lal Mirch)
  • Garam masala
  • Salt
  • Oil

✨ What Makes It Special

Paneer Jalfrezi showcases the culinary diversity within India, with each region adding its unique twist to the dish. While the Bengali version tends to be medium-hot spiced, other regions may vary the heat levels or incorporate local ingredients to suit their palate. This dish represents the fusion of flavors and techniques that make Indian cuisine so dynamic and exciting.

📝 Ingredients

  • 250g Paneer, cubed
  • 1 large bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1-inch ginger, julienned
  • 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2-3 green chilies, slit
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp oil

🥄 Spice Blend (Masala)

To make the spice blend, combine:

  • 1 tsp coriander seeds
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp black peppercorns
  • 2-3 dried red chilies
  • Dry roast and grind to a fine powder.

👨‍🍳 Preparation Method

  1. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds.
  2. Add ginger, garlic, and green chilies. Sauté until aromatic.
  3. Add onions and cook until translucent.
  4. Add tomatoes and cook until they soften.
  5. Mix in the spice blend, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt.
  6. Toss in bell peppers and cook until slightly tender.
  7. Add paneer and garam masala. Mix gently to coat the paneer.
  8. Cook for a few more minutes, ensuring the paneer is heated through.
  9. 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 Jalfrezi pairs beautifully with steamed rice, naan, or roti. For a complete meal, serve it with a side of cucumber raita and mango chutney. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

💭 Chef's Notes

  • For a richer texture, you can pan-fry the paneer before adding it to the dish.
  • Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of red chili powder.
  • Experiment with different colored bell peppers for a visually appealing presentation.

📦 Storage

Paneer Jalfrezi 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 preserve the flavors and texture.

Enjoy the bold flavors and aromatic spices of this authentic Bengali dish that celebrates the essence of Indian cuisine!