A delicious and creamy paneer dish blended with rich flavors of methi and basic spices. Perfect for the winter season.

Methi Malai Paneer recipe
Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
30min
Total Time
45min

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 bowl)

For the tomato puree

  • tomato
    tomato
    4
  • green chilli
    green chilli
    4
  • garlic
    garlic
    8clove
  • ginger
    ginger
    1tbsp
  • coriander stems
    coriander stems
    8

For the methi malai paneer

  • methi leaves
    methi leaves
    1cup
  • oil
    oil
    2tbsp
  • oil
    oil
    1tbsp
  • desi ghee
    desi ghee
    2tbsp
  • cumin seeds
    cumin seeds
    1tsp
  • asafoetida
    asafoetida
    1/2tsp
  • diced onion
    diced onion
    1cup
  • salt
    salt
    1tsp
  • red chilli powder
    red chilli powder
    1/2tsp
  • turmeric powder
    turmeric powder
    1tsp
  • coriander powder
    coriander powder
    1tsp
  • roasted cumin seeds powder
    roasted cumin seeds powder
    1tsp
  • garam masala
    garam masala
    1tsp
  • water
    water
    1cup
  • kashmiri lal mirch
    kashmiri lal mirch
    2tsp
  • fresh cream
    fresh cream
    2tbsp
  • sugar
    sugar
    1tsp
  • milk
    milk
    1cup
  • fresh paneer cubes
    fresh paneer cubes
    300g
  • ginger juliennes
    ginger juliennes
    1tbsp
  • chopped coriander leaves
    chopped coriander leaves
    1tbsp

How to make Methi Malai Paneer

Prepare the tomato puree

  1. Step 1

    Grind tomatoes, green chillies, garlic, ginger, and coriander stems into a puree.

Cook the methi leaves

  1. Step 1

    Take methi leaves, wash and chop them. Cook for 3-4 minutes on low to medium heat in oil.

Prepare the masala

  1. Step 1

    Heat oil and desi ghee. Add cumin seeds, asafoetida, and diced onion. Cook for 3 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Add salt, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, roasted cumin seeds powder, and garam masala. Mix well and cook for a minute.

  3. Step 3

    Add water and cook till the masala is soft and done.

Combine and cook

  1. Step 1

    Add kashmiri lal mirch and the tomato puree. Cook further till the masala releases ghee.

  2. Step 2

    Add fresh cream, cooked methi, and cook further for a minute on medium heat.

  3. Step 3

    Add sugar and milk. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes.

  4. Step 4

    Add fresh paneer cubes, ginger juliennes, and chopped coriander leaves. Cook for a minute.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

365.0kcal (18.25%)

Protein

12.8g (25.5%)

Carbs

12.0g (4.36%)

Sugars

5.3g (10.5%)

Healthy Fat

13.8g

Unhealthy Fat

15.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the masala is cooked well until it releases ghee for the best flavor.

  2. Adjust the spice levels according to your taste preference.

FAQS

  1. How can I make Methi Malai Paneer vegan or dairy-free?

    To make Methi Malai Paneer vegan, you can substitute the fresh paneer with tofu or a plant-based paneer alternative. Replace the fresh cream and milk with coconut cream or cashew cream for a rich, creamy texture without dairy.

  2. What are some good side dishes to serve with Methi Malai Paneer?

    Methi Malai Paneer pairs beautifully with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. You can also serve it with a side of cucumber raita or a simple salad to balance the richness of the dish.

  3. How should I store leftover Methi Malai Paneer?

    To store leftover Methi Malai Paneer, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

  4. Can I use frozen methi leaves for Methi Malai Paneer?

    Yes, you can use frozen methi leaves in Methi Malai Paneer. Just thaw them and squeeze out excess water before adding them to the dish. This is a great time-saving option if fresh methi is not available.

  5. What spices can I substitute in Methi Malai Paneer if I don't have all the ingredients?

    If you don't have specific spices like garam masala or roasted cumin seeds powder, you can use a general curry powder or a combination of cumin and coriander powder. Adjust the quantities to taste, as these substitutions may alter the flavor slightly.

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