Paneer, the versatile Indian cheese, is a staple in many vegetarian households. Its creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors make it a perfect ingredient for creating delectable dishes. However, traditional recipes often call for the use of onion and garlic, which may not be suitable for everyone’s dietary preferences or restrictions.
But fear not! In this article, we will explore some mouthwatering paneer recipes that omit onion and garlic without compromising on taste. Whether you follow a Jain diet, have allergies, or simply want to try something new, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds.
1. Palak Paneer – Spinach and Cottage Cheese Delight
Palak Paneer is a classic Indian dish loved by many. The combination of vibrant spinach puree and succulent paneer cubes creates a harmony of flavors that is hard to resist. To make this recipe without onion and garlic:
- Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds.
- Add finely chopped ginger and green chilies for a spicy kick.
- Stir in pureed spinach along with spices like turmeric, coriander powder, and garam masala.
- Gently place paneer cubes into the simmering spinach gravy.
- Allow the flavors to meld together before serving with roti or rice.
2. Paneer Tikka Masala – Grilled Cheese in Rich Tomato Gravy
Paneer Tikka Masala is a popular restaurant-style dish that combines marinated paneer with a luscious tomato-based gravy. To make this recipe without onion and garlic:
- Marinate paneer cubes in yogurt mixed with spices like red chili powder, cumin powder, and chaat masala.
- Grill or sauté the marinated paneer until golden brown.
- In another pan, heat oil and add whole spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and bay leaf.
- Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates.
- Sprinkle in powdered spices like turmeric, Kashmiri red chili powder, and garam masala.
- Gently place the grilled paneer into the rich tomato gravy and simmer for a few minutes.
- Finish with a dollop of cream and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
3. Paneer Butter Masala – Creamy Delight Sans Onion and Garlic
Paneer Butter Masala is a quintessential North Indian dish that pairs succulent paneer cubes with a rich and creamy tomato-based gravy. To make this recipe without onion and garlic:
- Heat butter in a pan and add whole spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom.
- Sauté ginger paste until fragrant.
- Add tomato puree along with spices like turmeric, red chili powder, and kasseri methi (dried fenugreek leaves).
- Let the gravy simmer until the oil separates from the sides.
- Gently drop paneer cubes into the silky smooth sauce.
- Stir in fresh cream for added richness before serving with naan or jeera rice.
4. Paneer Kofta Curry – Fried Cheese Balls in Savory Gravy
Paneer Kofta Curry is an indulgent dish where soft cottage cheese balls are deep-fried to perfection and then simmered in a flavorful curry. To make this recipe without onion and garlic:
- Mix mashed paneer with besan (gram flour), cornflour, chopped green chilies, ginger paste, salt, and spices like cumin powder and garam masala.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and deep-fry until golden brown.
- In a separate pan, heat oil and add whole spices such as bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, and fennel seeds.
- Add tomato puree and cook until the raw smell disappears.
- Sprinkle in spices like turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and kasuri methi.
- Gently place the fried paneer koftas into the curry and let them simmer for a few minutes.
- Finish with a drizzle of fresh cream and garnish with chopped cilantro.
5. Paneer Bhurji – Scrambled Cottage Cheese Delight
Paneer Bhurji is a quick and easy dish made by scrambling paneer with aromatic spices and vegetables. To make this recipe without onion and garlic:
- Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds, ginger paste, and green chilies.
- Sauté finely chopped tomatoes until they become soft and pulpy.
- Stir in powdered spices such as turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala.
- Crumble paneer into the pan along with peas or any other desired vegetables.
- Cook until the flavors meld together, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve hot with roti or paratha.
These delightful paneer recipes without onion and garlic prove that you don’t need to compromise on taste when accommodating dietary preferences or restrictions. Whether you choose to indulge in the creamy Palak Paneer or savor the rich flavors of Paneer Tikka Masala, each dish offers a unique twist on traditional recipes. So go ahead, experiment in your kitchen, and enjoy these delicious paneer creations that are sure to impress your family and friends.