AMRITSARI PANEER BHURJI is rustic, flavorful dish brings the essence of Punjab to your plate with crumbled paneer (cottage cheese) tossed in a medley of spices, tomatoes, and onions. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this recipe is quick, easy, and pairs wonderfully with hot parathas, rotis, or even toasted bread. Lets cook in totally Dhaba Style.
Whether you’re reminiscing about roadside dhabas or craving a comforting home-cooked meal, this Amritsari Paneer Bhurji gravy is sure to hit the spot.
Amritsari Paneer Bhurji Ingredients
For the Paneer Bhurji:
- Paneer: 250g, crumbled
- Onion: 2 medium, finely chopped
- Tomato: 2 medium, finely chopped
- Green Chilies: 2, finely chopped
- Ginger-Garlic Paste: 1 tsp
- Capsicum (optional): 1 small, diced
- Oil or Ghee: 2 tbsp
- Cumin Seeds: 1/2 tsp
- Turmeric Powder: 1/4 tsp
- Red Chili Powder: 1/2 tsp (adjust to taste)
- Coriander Powder: 1 tsp
- Garam Masala: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: To taste
- Fresh Coriander Leaves: 2 tbsp, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Garnish:
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh cream
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 15 minutes | 25 minutes | Serves 3–4 |
Step By Step Process
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Crumble the paneer into small, soft pieces using your hands or a fork.
- Chop the onions, tomatoes, green chilies, and capsicum (if using).
Step 2: Saute the Base
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Cook for 1 minute until the raw aroma disappears.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they soften and the oil starts to separate.
- Mix in the turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for 1–2 minutes to blend the spices.
Step 4: Toss in the Paneer
- Add the crumbled paneer to the pan and mix well with the masala.
- Stir gently and cook for 2–3 minutes on low heat to allow the flavors to infuse into the paneer.
Step 5: Finish with Freshness
- Sprinkle garam masala and mix.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Optionally, add a dollop of fresh cream for richness.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Serve the Paneer Bhurji with warm parathas, naan, or buttered toast. Add a lemon wedge for an extra zing.
Tips for Perfect Dhaba-Style Paneer Bhurji
- Fresh Paneer: Use homemade or fresh paneer for the softest texture.
- Creamy Touch: A small spoon of cream can make it extra indulgent.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the chili and garam masala to match your spice tolerance.
- Capsicum: Adding diced capsicum gives it a slight crunch and enhances the flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from paneer and loaded with flavorful veggies.
- Versatile: Great as a main dish or side with almost any Indian bread.
- Comfort Food: Brings the dhaba vibes straight to your kitchen.
Conclusion
This Amritsari Paneer Bhurji is a must-try recipe that’s bursting with authentic flavors and hearty goodness. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, it’s a fail-safe dish that never disappoints. Pair it with buttery parathas and a glass of lassi for the ultimate Punjabi experience!
Let me know how your Paneer Bhurji turns out or if you add your own twist to it. Happy cooking!
FAQ: Amritsari Paneer Bhurji –
Q1: What is Paneer Bhurji?
A: Paneer Bhurji is a popular North Indian dish made by crumbling paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and cooking it with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. The Amritsari/Dhaba-style version is known for its rustic, flavorful, and slightly spicier twist.
Q2: Is Amritsari Paneer Bhurji spicy?
A: It can be mildly or moderately spicy depending on the amount of chili and spices you add. You can always adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences.
Q3: Can I make this dish vegan?
A: Yes! To make a vegan version, substitute paneer with crumbled tofu and use plant-based butter or oil for cooking.
Q4: What type of paneer is best for this recipe?
A: Fresh, soft paneer works best for Paneer Bhurji. Homemade paneer or store-bought paneer that’s soaked in warm water for 5 minutes before crumbling ensures the perfect texture.
Q5: Can I add more vegetables to Paneer Bhurji?
A: Absolutely! You can add diced bell peppers, grated carrots, green peas, or even finely chopped spinach to make the dish more nutritious.
Q6: What can I serve Paneer Bhurji with?
A: Paneer Bhurji pairs well with:
- Parathas
- Buttered toast
- Roti or naan
- Jeera rice or plain rice
It’s also delicious as a filling for wraps, sandwiches, or even stuffed parathas.
Q7: How long does Paneer Bhurji stay fresh?
A: Paneer Bhurji is best consumed fresh, but you can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat it on a stovetop or microwave before serving.
Q8: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While Paneer Bhurji is quick to prepare and best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the masala (onion, tomato, and spices) ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Add crumbled paneer just before serving for the freshest taste.
Q9: Is Paneer Bhurji healthy?
A: Yes! Paneer is rich in protein and calcium, making it a nutritious choice. By adding vegetables and using minimal oil, Paneer Bhurji can be a wholesome, balanced meal.
Q10: How can I make it creamier?
A: To make Paneer Bhurji creamier, add a spoonful of fresh cream, malai (clotted cream), or cashew paste during the final step of cooking.
Q11: Can I freeze Paneer Bhurji?
A: Freezing Paneer Bhurji isn’t recommended as paneer tends to lose its texture after thawing. However, you can freeze the masala base and add fresh paneer when reheating.
Q12: Can I use store-bought paneer?
A: Yes, store-bought paneer works fine. Just ensure you soak it in warm water for 5 minutes to soften it before crumbling.
Q13: What makes this recipe ‘Amritsari’ or ‘Dhaba-style’?
A: The rustic preparation, the use of bold spices, and the inclusion of garam masala or dhaba-style seasoning make it distinctively Amritsari. The slight smokiness and earthy flavors give it that roadside dhaba charm.
Q14: How can I customize the spice level?
A:
- For milder spice, reduce the amount of green chilies and red chili powder.
- For more heat, add finely chopped green chilies or a pinch of chili flakes.
Q15: Can I use paneer bhurji as a filling?
A: Yes! Paneer Bhurji makes an excellent filling for wraps, sandwiches, frankies, or even stuffed parathas. Just ensure the masala isn’t too watery to avoid spills.
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