Creamy and Flavorful Paneer Pulav Recipe

Introduction: 

Paneer Pulav is a delightful rice dish that combines the richness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with fragrant basmati rice and aromatic spices. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to a delicious and satisfying meal. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a creamy and flavorful Paneer Pulav that's sure to impress your taste buds.

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Ingredients:

1 cup basmati rice

200g paneer, cubed

1 large onion, thinly sliced

1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, beans, etc.)

2 tomatoes, finely chopped

2 green chilies, finely chopped

1/4 cup cashews or almonds

1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves (cilantro)

1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped

2 tablespoons ghee or butter

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

4-5 cloves

4-5 green cardamom pods

1-inch cinnamon stick

1 bay leaf

1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon red chili powder

1/2 cup yogurt

Salt to taste

2 cups water

Instructions:

Rinse and Soak the Rice:

Rinse 1 cup of basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear.

Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.

Sauté Paneer:

In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or butter.

Add paneer cubes and sauté until they turn golden brown. Set aside.

Prepare Vegetables:

Chop a mix of vegetables such as peas, carrots, and beans.

Thinly slice one large onion and chop two tomatoes.

Sauté Aromatics:

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or butter.

Add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, 4-5 cloves, 4-5 green cardamom pods, 1-inch cinnamon stick, and 1 bay leaf. Sauté until the spices release their aroma.

Add Vegetables and Tomatoes:

Add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

Add 1 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste and chopped green chilies. Sauté for another minute.

Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes.

Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they are soft.

Add Spices and Yogurt:

Stir in 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder and 1 teaspoon red chili powder.

Add 1/2 cup yogurt and mix well. Cook until the mixture thickens.

Cook the Rice:

Add the soaked and drained basmati rice to the pot. Mix well to coat the rice with the vegetables and spices.

Pour in 2 cups of water, add salt to taste, and bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed.

Combine with Paneer:

Gently fold in the sautéed paneer cubes into the rice mixture.

Finish with Nuts and Herbs:

Add cashews or almonds and mix gently.

Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and mint leaves.

Serve Hot:

Transfer the Paneer Pulav to a serving dish.

Serve hot with raita or your favorite yogurt-based side dish.

Enjoy your homemade Paneer Pulav, a creamy and flavorful dish that showcases the richness of paneer in every bite!