Name: Methi Paneer Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 block paneer; 1 small onion; 2 green chiles; oil; ½ tsp cumin; salt; 1 pinch turmeric; ½ cup coconut milk; 1 pinch kasuri methi

This recipe is for a delicious and creamy fenugreek cottage cheese dish. It's a simple, yet flavorful dish that combines the smooth texture of cottage cheese with the unique taste of fenugreek. The addition of coconut milk adds a rich and creamy element to the dish, while the green chiles provide a kick of heat. This recipe is perfect for those who love to experiment with different flavours and textures in their food.

Photos of Methi Paneer Recipe

The key ingredient that might not be commonly found in your kitchen is kasuri methi or dried fenugreek leaves. It's a popular spice in Indian cooking and it adds a unique, slightly bitter note to dishes. In addition, paneer or Indian cottage cheese, might not be a staple in your fridge but it's readily available in most grocery stores or Indian food shops.

Fenugreek Cottage Cheese Ingredients

Paneer: A type of Indian cottage cheese, it's mild and creamy, perfect for absorbing flavours.

Onion: Adds crunch and a sweet note to the dish.

Green chiles: Gives a spicy kick to the dish, adjust amount based on your spice tolerance.

Oil: Used for frying, it brings all the flavours together.

Cumin: It's warm and earthy, essential in many Indian dishes.

Salt: Balances all the other flavours.

Turmeric: Gives a beautiful yellow colour and slight bitterness.

Coconut milk: Adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness.

Kasuri methi: Dried fenugreek leaves, they add a unique, slightly bitter taste.

One reader, Carmine Byrne says:

This fenugreek cottage cheese recipe is a game-changer! The combination of paneer and coconut milk creates a rich and creamy texture, while the fenugreek adds a unique and aromatic flavor. It's a delightful twist on traditional paneer dishes and has become a family favorite in our household. Highly recommended!

Carmine Byrne

Techniques for Making Fenugreek Cottage Cheese

How to scramble paneer: Cut the paneer into small cubes and then crumble it using your hands or a grater.

How to fry onions and green chiles: Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds, followed by chopped onions and green chiles. Sauté until they turn golden brown.

How to adjust the consistency: While cooking with coconut milk, ensure to adjust the consistency by adding more or less coconut milk as needed.

How to crush kasuri methi: Take the kasuri methi leaves in your palms and rub them together to crush them before adding to the dish.

How To Make Methi Paneer

This methi paneer is an Indian delicacy that is made with green chiles cooked in spiced coconut milk. Serve with fenugreek for some nutty flavor and aroma.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1blockpaneer
1small onion
2green chiles
oil,to taste
½tspcumin
salt,to taste
1pinchturmeric
½cupcoconut milk
1pinchkasuri methi,dried fenugreek leaves

Instructions

Scramble paneer.
Chop onions and green chiles.
Heat some oil in a pan, add jeera, onions, chiles. Fry.
Add scrambled paneer, salt, and turmeric. Mix.
Add coconut milk. Mix gently, cover, and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes to the desired consistency.
Turn off heat, nicely crush the Kasuri methi leaves with palms on the paneer.
Mix and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 64.98kcal
Fat: 5.67g
Saturated Fat: 4.34g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.71g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.29g
Carbohydrates: 3.79g
Fiber: 0.55g
Sugar: 1.52g
Protein: 1.02g
Sodium: 129.39mg
Calcium: 12.71mg
Potassium: 136.31mg
Iron: 1.17mg
Vitamin A: 10.76µg
Vitamin C: 44.93mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Fenugreek Cottage Cheese

To enhance the flavor of the kasuri methi, dry roast it in a pan for a few seconds before crushing it with your palms. This will release more aroma and give your dish a more robust flavor. Just be careful not to burn it, as it can turn bitter.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Fenugreek Cottage Cheese

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and prepare whatever you can in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and save time.

Batch cooking: Make larger quantities of certain components, such as sauces or grains, and store them for future use in various recipes.

Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors, slow cookers, or pressure cookers to expedite the cooking process.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the instructions to avoid mistakes that could lead to time-consuming fixes.

Substitute Ingredients For Methi Paneer Recipe

paneer - Substitute with extra-firm tofu: Extra-firm tofu has a similar texture to paneer and can be used as a substitute in this recipe for a vegan option.
coconut milk - Substitute with heavy cream: Heavy cream can be used as a substitute for coconut milk to add richness and creaminess to the dish.

Presentation Ideas for Fenugreek Cottage Cheese

Elevate the paneer scramble: Gently shape the paneer scramble into a quenelle using two spoons for a refined presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro and mint over the paneer for a pop of color and fresh aroma.
Incorporate edible flowers: Place a few edible flowers, such as marigold petals or pansies, on the plate for an elegant touch.
Create a coconut milk drizzle: Drizzle a small amount of coconut milk around the paneer scramble for a visually appealing and creamy element.
Use a unique serving dish: Present the fenugreek cottage cheese in a stylish, handcrafted ceramic bowl to add a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Add a sprinkle of edible gold leaf: For a luxurious touch, delicately place a few edible gold leaf flakes on top of the paneer scramble.
Serve with artisanal bread: Accompany the dish with warm, freshly baked naan bread or paratha to elevate the overall dining experience.
Incorporate a touch of spice: Dust a hint of paprika or chili powder around the edges of the plate for a visually striking presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Fenugreek Cottage Cheese

Cutting board: A flat, sturdy surface used for cutting, chopping, and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing a variety of ingredients.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan with sloping sides, used for frying, sautéing, and searing ingredients.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade, used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A deep bowl used for mixing ingredients, marinating, and preparing various components of a dish.
Grater: A kitchen tool used to grate ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, or spices into fine pieces.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential tools for accurately measuring and portioning ingredients in cooking and baking.
Cooking spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring, mixing, and tasting dishes as they cook.
Tongs: A versatile kitchen tool with two arms and a pivot, used for gripping, lifting, and turning food items while cooking.
Garlic press: A tool used to crush and mince garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.
Grill pan: A pan with raised ridges, used for grilling and creating grill marks on various ingredients.
Blender: A kitchen appliance used for blending, pureeing, and emulsifying ingredients to create smooth textures.
Strainer: A perforated bowl-shaped kitchen tool used for straining liquids, sifting dry ingredients, and rinsing foods.
Rolling pin: A cylindrical tool used to flatten and shape dough for baking and pastry preparation.
Pastry brush: A kitchen tool with bristles, used for applying glazes, sauces, or butter to food items.
Whisk: A kitchen tool with a handle and wire loops, used for whipping, beating, and incorporating air into ingredients.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and cooking a wide range of dishes.
Stove: A cooking appliance with burners or heating elements, used for cooking food in pots and pans.
Food processor: A versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and processing ingredients quickly and efficiently.
Mortar and pestle: A tool used for grinding and crushing spices, herbs, and other ingredients to release their flavors.

Storing and Freezing Fenugreek Cottage Cheese

Allow the fenugreek cottage cheese to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the paneer dish, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification later on.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen fenugreek cottage cheese in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the thawed dish in a pan over low to medium heat, stirring gently until it's heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or coconut milk to restore the desired consistency.
Note: The texture of the paneer may change slightly after freezing and thawing, becoming a bit softer or crumblier. However, the flavor should remain delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Fenugreek Cottage Cheese

Reheat in a skillet or frying pan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or milk to help rehydrate the paneer and prevent it from drying out. Stir gently until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
Place the leftover fenugreek cottage cheese in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through (about 1-2 minutes total).
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover paneer dish to an oven-safe container, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the top to slightly crisp up.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place the leftover fenugreek cottage cheese in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 3-5 minutes or until heated through. This method helps retain the moisture and texture of the paneer.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover paneer dish. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), place the leftovers in the basket, and cook for 3-5 minutes or until heated through. This method will help crisp up the exterior while keeping the interior soft and moist.

Interesting Fact About Fenugreek Cottage Cheese

Fenugreek is a versatile herb that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It is known for its distinct flavor and is often used in curries, pickles, and spice blends. In addition to its culinary uses, fenugreek is also believed to have various health benefits, including improving digestion and reducing inflammation.

Is Making Fenugreek Cottage Cheese at Home Cost-Effective?

This fenugreek cottage cheese recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, paneer, is reasonably priced, and the other ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens. The dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and economical choice. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and deliciousness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12, making it a budget-friendly option for a flavorful meal.

Is Fenugreek Cottage Cheese Healthy?

The fenugreek cottage cheese recipe is a relatively healthy dish with some room for improvement. Here's a breakdown of the ingredients:

Paneer (cottage cheese) is a good source of protein and calcium, but it's also high in saturated fat.
Onions and green chiles provide flavor and some nutrients, such as vitamin C and antioxidants.
Cumin and turmeric are beneficial spices with anti-inflammatory properties.
Coconut milk adds creaminess but is high in saturated fat.
Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) is a flavorful herb with potential health benefits, such as blood sugar regulation and digestive support.

While this dish has some nutritious components, the main concerns are the high saturated fat content from the paneer and coconut milk, and the lack of vegetables.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use low-fat or reduced-fat paneer to decrease the saturated fat content
Replace some of the paneer with firm tofu for a lower-fat, plant-based protein option
Increase the amount of onions and green chiles, or add other vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or spinach to boost the nutrient content and fiber
Use light coconut milk or replace it with a lower-fat alternative, such as plain yogurt or cashew cream
Add more aromatic spices like ginger, garlic, and garam masala to enhance the flavor without increasing the calorie content
Serve the dish with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables and a whole grain like brown rice or quinoa to create a balanced meal

Editor's Opinion on Fenugreek Cottage Cheese

This fenugreek cottage cheese recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The use of coconut milk adds a creamy richness, while the kasuri methi imparts a subtle earthy aroma. The dish is well-balanced with the perfect amount of spice from the green chiles and cumin. The simplicity of the recipe allows the natural flavors of the paneer to shine through, making it a satisfying and comforting dish. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the unique combination of fenugreek and cottage cheese.

Enhance Your Methi Paneer Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Naan: Try serving this fenugreek cottage cheese with some warm and fluffy garlic naan to soak up all the delicious flavors.

Mango Chutney: Add a touch of sweetness to your meal with some tangy mango chutney on the side.

Cucumber Raita: Cool down the heat of the green chiles with a refreshing cucumber raita, perfect for balancing out the flavors of the dish.

Recipes Similar to Fenugreek Cottage Cheese

Spicy Chicken Curry: This spicy chicken curry recipe is perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals. It's packed with flavor and will leave you wanting more!

Mango Salsa: Fresh, tangy, and sweet, this mango salsa is the perfect accompaniment to any dish. It's great with grilled fish, chicken, or just as a dip with some tortilla chips!

Creamy Tomato Soup: Warm up with a bowl of creamy tomato soup on a cold day. It's comforting, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.

Banana Bread: Got some overripe bananas? Turn them into a delicious loaf of banana bread! It's moist, sweet, and makes for a great breakfast or snack.

Appetizer and Dessert Combinations with Fenugreek Cottage Cheese

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious bite-sized treat.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with freshly toasted bread topped with a vibrant mixture of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. The combination of flavors and textures will leave your guests wanting more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth after a delicious meal.

Tiramisu: Savor the layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese, and a dusting of cocoa powder in this classic Italian dessert. The perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.

Why trust this Methi Paneer Recipe:

This recipe uses fresh paneer and aromatic kasuri methi, ensuring authentic flavors. The combination of coconut milk and turmeric adds a creamy texture and a hint of warmth. The use of cumin and green chiles infuses the dish with a subtle heat, while the onions provide a sweet and savory balance. The careful blending of these ingredients creates a dish that is both comforting and flavorful, making it a trustworthy addition to your culinary repertoire.

Share your thoughts on the Methi Paneer Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

What is paneer and where can I find it?

Paneer is a type of Indian cheese that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It is made by curdling hot milk with an acidic substance like lemon juice or vinegar. You can find paneer in most Indian grocery stores or in the dairy section of some supermarkets.

Can I substitute paneer with another type of cheese?

While paneer has a unique texture and taste, you can substitute it with firm tofu or halloumi cheese if you cannot find paneer. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the dish may vary with the substitution.

Is coconut milk necessary for this recipe?

Coconut milk adds a creamy and slightly sweet flavor to the dish. If you prefer, you can substitute it with heavy cream or half-and-half, but it will alter the taste slightly.

What does kasuri methi add to the dish?

Kasuri methi, or dried fenugreek leaves, adds a distinct earthy and slightly bitter flavor to the dish. It also provides a pleasant aroma. If you cannot find kasuri methi, you can omit it, but it does enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it before serving. The flavors tend to meld together, making it even more delicious the next day. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.