Introduction:
Tomato Paneer Pulao is a delightful one-pot dish that effortlessly combines the tanginess of tomatoes, the richness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese), and the aromatic blend of spices. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy days when you crave a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let's dive into the steps of creating this flavorful Tomato Paneer Pulao that will surely become a family favorite.
SOURCE
Ingredients:
Basmati rice - 1 cup
Paneer (cubed) - 1 cup
Tomatoes - 3 medium-sized (pureed)
Onion - 1 large (finely chopped)
Green peas - 1/2 cup (fresh or frozen)
Green chili - 1 (finely chopped)
Ginger-garlic paste - 1 tablespoon
Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon
Bay leaf - 1
Cinnamon stick - 1 inch
Cardamom pods - 2
Cloves - 4
Red chili powder - 1/2 teaspoon
Turmeric powder - 1/4 teaspoon
Garam masala - 1/2 teaspoon
Fresh coriander leaves - a handful (chopped)
Cooking oil - 2 tablespoons
Salt - to taste
Water - 2 cups
Instructions:
Prepare the Rice:
Rinse basmati rice in cold water and soak it for 30 minutes. Drain the water and set aside.
Sauté Paneer:
In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Sauté the paneer cubes until they turn golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Tempering:
In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves. Allow them to splutter.
Add Aromatics:
Add finely chopped onions, green chili, and ginger-garlic paste. Sauté until the onions become translucent.
Tomato Puree:
Add the pureed tomatoes to the pan. Cook until the tomato puree thickens and the oil starts to separate.
Spice it Up:
Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
Add Vegetables and Paneer:
Stir in green peas and the sautéed paneer cubes. Cook for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Rice Addition:
Add the soaked basmati rice to the pan. Stir gently to coat the rice with the tomato-spice mixture.
Water and Cooking:
Pour 2 cups of water into the pan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the pan with a lid, and let the rice cook until it's tender and the water is absorbed.
Garnish with Garam Masala:
Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle garam masala and fresh coriander leaves. Give it a gentle mix.
Serve Hot:
Fluff the rice with a fork, ensuring that the paneer is evenly distributed. Serve the Tomato Paneer Pulao hot, accompanied by raita or a side salad.
Conclusion:
This Tomato Paneer Pulao is a delightful combination of vibrant flavors and textures. The juicy tomatoes, succulent paneer, and aromatic spices come together to create a wholesome and satisfying meal. With its quick preparation and delicious outcome, this pulao is a perfect addition to your repertoire of go-to recipes for a fuss-free yet tasty dining experience. Enjoy the simplicity and tastefulness of this Tomato Paneer Pulao any day of the week!
0 Comments