Step-by-Step Guide to Making Gemstone Paneer Bhurji

Paneer bhurji is a popular and delicious North Indian dish that is made with crumbled paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and a blend of spices, creating a vibrant, flavorful and utterly satisfying vegetarian meal. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a tasty breakfast option, this dish boasts a myriad of health benefits, such as protein, calcium, and vitamins, making it a versatile and nutritious addition to any diet. Enjoy your gemstone paneer bhurji with a side of crispy rotis or parathas, or simply relish it over a bed of steamed rice or mixed greens.

Ingredients

250 grams crumbled paneer 1 medium finely chopped onion 1 medium finely chopped tomato 1-2 finely chopped green chili (adjust to taste) 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste 1 small finely chopped bell pepper (optional) 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon garam masala 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds Salt to taste 2 tablespoons oil or ghee fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

Preparation:

Crumble the paneer using your hands or a fork and set it aside. Chop the vegetables—onion, tomato, green chili, and bell pepper (if using)—and keep them ready.

Cooking:

Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.

Adding Vegetables:

Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy. If using bell pepper, add it at this stage and sauté for a few minutes. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes.

Adding Paneer:

Add the crumbled paneer to the mixture. Stir gently to combine everything. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors.

Finishing Touches:

Sprinkle garam masala over the bhurji and mix well. Cook for another minute. Turn off the heat.

Garnishing:

Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with rotis or parathas. Enjoy it with steamed rice. Use it as a filling in sandwiches.

Paneer bhurji is not only a delightful dish but also packed with nutritional benefits. Its health quotient can be elevated by adding various vegetables to the recipe. Experiment with different greens or adding a pinch of cumin or turmeric powder for a flavorful twist. Cooking paneer bhurji can be a fun task, especially for those who love to explore new flavors and cooking techniques. Invite family and friends to share their feedback and make adjustments to suit your taste. Enjoy your scrumptious and healthy Gemstone Paneer Bhurji!