Name: Amritsari’s Special Paneer Paratha Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 1
Ingredients: 1 Cup Of Wheat Flour; 1 tsp Ghee; Required Amount Of Salt And Water (lukewarm); 200 g Paneer; 1 No Of Onion (finely chopped); 1 No Of Tomato (finely chopped); ¼ No Of Bell Pepper (finely chopped); 3 Nos Of Green Chili (finely chopped); 1 tbsp Cilantro (finely chopped); Garam Masala; Ginger Garlic Paste; Kasuri Methi; Required Amount Of Salt; 4 tbsp Butter or Ghee

AuthorNithya Lakshmi

RatingDifficultyAdvanced

Amritsari Paneer Paratha, with its irresistible aroma, exquisite flavors, and comforting texture transcends mere food to become an experience. Take a bite of hot spongy paneer paratha with your favorite accompaniment and have a sip of chilled jaljeera inbetween for a feel of zing..

"Relish the food with a little bit of its incredible history"

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Jump Into:

Amritsari Paneer Paratha
A Word On Astounding Amritsar Cuisine
A Sneak peek Into Amritsar Parathas
A Preface On Amritsar Paneer Paratha
Needed Ingredients To Make Perfect Amritsar Paneer Paratha
Step wise Directions To Make Delicious Amritsar Paneer Paratha
Some Tried And Tested Tips
Faqs

9. Amritsar Paneer Paratha In A Nutshell

10. Fantastic Dips For Amritsari Paneer Paratha

11. Suitable Accompaniments For Amritsari Paneer Paratha

12. Best Garnishments For Amritsari Paneer Paratha

13. Delicious Desserts To Serve Along With Amritsar Paneer Paratha

14. A Typical Punjabi Lunch Scenario

15. Takeaway

16. Nutritional Value

Amritsar Special Paneer Paratha is a culinary masterpiece that captivates both the senses and the soul. With its tantalizing aroma wafting through the air, it beckons you to indulge in a gastronomic adventure like no other. Each bite of this divine creation is a symphony of flavors, where the softness of the paneer blends harmoniously with the subtle spices, creating a sensation that dances on your taste buds. This iconic dish is not just food; it's a celebration of tradition, culture, and culinary excellence, reminiscent of the vibrant streets of Amritsar. Prepare to embark on a journey of indulgence and delight as you savor every mouthful of Amritsar Special Paneer Paratha.

A Word On Astounding Amritsar Cuisine:

Amritsar cuisine is a culinary treasure trove deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of Punjab's culture and heritage. Renowned for its robust flavors and hearty textures, Amritsari dishes are a reflection of the region's agricultural abundance and vibrant culinary traditions. From the iconic Amritsari Kulcha, with its crispy exterior and soft, flavorful filling, to the fragrant and indulgent Amritsari Fish, marinated in an array of aromatic spices and fried to golden perfection, each dish embodies the essence of Punjabi hospitality and warmth.

The cuisine is characterized by its generous use of ghee, butter, and cream, elevating simple ingredients into extraordinary feasts for the senses. Whether it's the iconic street food delights of the bustling lanes or the lavish spreads served in traditional Punjabi homes, Amritsar cuisine offers a culinary experience that is both soul-satisfying and unforgettable, leaving a lasting imprint on the palate and the heart alike.

A Sneak peek Into Amritsar Parathas:

Amritsar Parathas hold a special place in the heart of Punjabi cuisine, embodying the essence of comfort food with their hearty flavors and satisfying textures. These flaky, layered breads are a culinary delight, crafted with expertise and care by skilled hands. What sets Amritsar Parathas apart is their indulgent filling, often consisting of a rich blend of spices, vegetables, or meats, meticulously folded into the dough to create layers of flavor. Whether it's the iconic Amritsari Aloo Paratha, generously stuffed with spiced mashed potatoes, or the delectable Paneer Paratha, oozing with creamy cottage cheese and aromatic spices, each bite is a celebration of culinary craftsmanship and tradition. Served piping hot with a dollop of butter or accompanied by tangy pickles and cooling yogurt, Amritsar Parathas offer a sensory experience that is as comforting as it is satisfying, leaving a lingering warmth that resonates long after the last crumb has been savored.

A Preface On Amritsar Paneer Paratha:

Paneer Paratha, a quintessential dish in Amritsari cuisine, is a delectable flatbread generously stuffed with a filling of paneer (cottage cheese) and aromatic spices. The dough is prepared from whole wheat flour, kneaded to a soft and pliable consistency, ensuring a perfect balance between firmness and tenderness when cooked. The filling, a mixture of crumbled paneer, finely chopped onions, green chilies, fresh coriander leaves, and an assortment of spices such as red chili powder, garam masala, and dry mango powder(optional) imparts a burst of flavors with every bite.

The paratha is skillfully rolled out, enclosing the filling within layers of dough, before being cooked on a hot griddle with a drizzle of ghee or butter until golden brown and crispy. Served hot off the griddle, Paneer Paratha is often accompanied by creamy yogurt, tangy pickle, or spicy chutney, enhancing its already tantalizing taste and making it a wholesome and fulfilling meal that satisfies both hunger and cravings alike.

Yields1 Serving

Prep Time15 minsCook Time10 minsTotal Time25 mins

Needed Ingredients To Make Perfect Amritsar Paneer Paratha:

For The Paratha

1 Cup Of Wheat Flour

1 tsp Ghee

Required Amount Of Salt And Water (lukewarm)

For The Filling

200 g Paneer

1 No Of Onion (finely chopped)

1 No Of Tomato (finely chopped)

¼ No Of Bell Pepper (finely chopped)

3 Nos Of Green Chili (finely chopped)

1 tbsp Cilantro (finely chopped)

Spices Required

Garam Masala

Ginger Garlic Paste

Kasuri Methi

Required Amount Of Salt

For Cooking The Paratha

4 tbsp Butter or Ghee

Step wise Directions To Make Delicious Amritsar Paneer Paratha:

Step 1: For The Dough

Take the whole wheat flour in a large mixing bowl. Add water little by little and knead it into a soft dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Make The Balls

Make even sized balls out of the dough and roll them into smooth balls. Place them in a bowl and cover it the a damp cloth until you take it for rolling.

Step 3: Prepare Ingredients For The Stuffing

Meanwhile, get the ingredients ready in the given proportion to make the stuffing.

Step 4: Make The Stuffing

Heat a saucepan and tip in a little oil. When it is heated drop in the grated paneer, chopped onion, tomato, green chilies, coriander leaves, chopped bell pepper, ginger garlic paaste, garam masala powder, kasuri methi and salt. Mix everything well so that the spices are evenly distributed. Let it get cooked for two minutes and turn off the flame when it is done.

Step 5: Fill The Paratha With Stuffing

Take one dough ball and roll it out into a small circle (about 4-5 inches in diameter) using a rolling pin. Place a spoonful of the paneer stuffing in the center of the rolled-out dough circle. Bring the edges of the dough together to cover the stuffing completely and seal it properly. Flatten the stuffed dough ball gently with your palms. Dust the flattened dough ball with some dry flour and roll it out carefully into a paratha of desired thickness (usually about 5-6 inches in circumference approximately) with a rolling pin.

Step 6: Make The Paratha

Heat a tawa or griddle over medium heat. Once the tawa is hot, carefully place the rolled-out paratha on it. Cook the paratha for a minute or two on one side until you see bubbles forming on the surface. Flip the paratha and spread some ghee or butter on the cooked side. Cook the other side until it turns golden brown, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Flip again and spread ghee or butter on this side as well. Cook until both sides are evenly cooked and golden brown. Repeat the same process for the remaining dough balls. Serve hot with yogurt, pickle, or any chutney of your choice.

Some Tried And Tested Tips:

Dos:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh paneer, onions, tomato, bell peppers, green chilies, and coriander leaves to ensure the best flavor in your parathas.
Properly Seal the Parathas: Ensure that the edges of the parathas are properly sealed after stuffing to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
Roll Out Evenly: Roll out the dough evenly to ensure that the parathas cook uniformly and have a consistent texture.
Control Heat: Adjust the heat on the griddle or tawa to cook the parathas thoroughly without burning them.
Apply Ghee or Butter: Apply ghee or butter generously while cooking for that authentic Amritsari flavor and crispy texture.
Serve Hot: Serve the parathas hot off the griddle to enjoy them at their best texture and flavor.

Don'ts:

Avoid Over stuffing: Be careful not to over stuff the parathas, as it can make them difficult to roll out and may cause them to break during cooking.
Don't Roll Out Too Thin: Avoid rolling out the dough too thin, as it can lead to the filling leaking out while cooking.
Don't Use Excessive Pressure: When rolling out the parathas, avoid applying too much pressure, as it can cause the filling to spill out or the dough to tear.
Don't Cook on High Heat: Cooking the parathas on excessively high heat can lead to burning and uneven cooking.
Don't Skip Resting the Dough: Allow the dough to rest for some time after kneading to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out and resulting in softer parathas.
Avoid Dry Parathas: Ensure that the griddle or tawa is properly greased with ghee or butter to prevent the parathas from becoming dry and sticking to the surface.

Faqs:

. What makes Amritsar Paneer Paratha special?

Amritsar Paneer Paratha is special because of its indulgent filling of paneer (cottage cheese) and aromatic spices, enclosed within layers of soft, whole wheat dough. The richness of the paneer combined with the flavors of onions, green chilies, and spices creates a delightful culinary experience that is both satisfying and flavorful.

2. Can I use store-bought paneer for making Paneer Paratha?

Yes, you can use store-bought paneer for making Paneer Paratha. However, for the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to use freshly made paneer. If using store-bought paneer, ensure it's soft and crumbly for the filling.

3. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out while rolling the parathas?

To prevent the filling from leaking out while rolling the parathas, make sure to seal the edges of the dough properly after stuffing. Press the edges firmly to seal them, and if necessary, use a little water to help seal the edges securely.

4. Can I make Paneer Paratha ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling for Paneer Paratha ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, assemble the parathas and cook them fresh on the griddle or tawa for the best taste and texture.

5. Can I freeze Paneer Paratha?

Yes, you can freeze Paneer Paratha for later use. After cooking the parathas, allow them to cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper between each paratha to prevent sticking. Place the stack in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and store them in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw the parathas in the refrigerator overnight and then heat them on a griddle or microwave until warmed through.

Amritsar Paneer Paratha In A Nutshell:

Nature: Comfortingly indulgent
Color: Golden brown
Taste: Richly spiced
Smell: Aromatic delight
Texture: Flaky goodness

Fantastic Dips For Amritsari Paneer Paratha:

Plain Yogurt: A dollop of creamy yogurt on the side helps balance the spices in the paneer paratha and adds a cooling contrast to each bite.
Pickles: Tangy and spicy pickles, such as mango pickle or mixed vegetable pickle, provide a burst of flavor that enhances the overall taste experience.
Fresh Mint Chutney: A vibrant and refreshing mint chutney adds a burst of freshness to the meal, complementing the richness of the paneer paratha.

Tamarind Chutney: Tangy tamarind chutney offers a sweet and sour flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the savory paratha.

Suitable Accompaniments For Amritsari Paneer Paratha:

Curries:

Paneer Butter Masala: Creamy and rich tomato-based gravy with chunks of paneer cooked in buttery goodness.
Palak Paneer: Spinach-based gravy with paneer cubes, flavored with Indian spices and cream.
Matar Paneer: A flavorful curry made with peas (matar) and paneer in a tomato-based gravy.
Paneer Tikka Masala: Spicy and tangy gravy with marinated paneer pieces cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce.
Shahi Paneer: A royal dish made with paneer cooked in a rich and creamy gravy made with cashews, cream, and aromatic spices.

Gravies:

Dal Makhani: Creamy and flavorful lentil curry made with black lentils, kidney beans, and aromatic spices.
Chole (Chickpea Curry): Spicy and tangy chickpea curry cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of Indian spices.
Rajma Masala: Kidney beans cooked in a rich and flavorful tomato-based gravy, perfect for scooping up with paratha.
Vegetable Korma: A creamy and mildly spiced vegetable curry made with a medley of vegetables, coconut milk, and aromatic spices.

These side dishes complement the flavors of Paneer Paratha perfectly, creating a complete and satisfying meal. Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences and taste preferences!

Best Garnishments For Amritsari Paneer Paratha:

Fresh Coriander Leaves: Finely chopped coriander leaves sprinkled on top not only add a burst of freshness but also enhance the presentation of the paratha.
Chaat Masala: A sprinkle of chaat masala over the paratha adds a tangy and savory flavor that complements the spices in the filling.
Pomegranate Seeds: Bright and juicy pomegranate seeds scattered on top of the paratha add a delightful burst of sweetness and color.
Grated Cheese: For an indulgent twist, sprinkle some grated cheese over the hot paratha just before serving. The melted cheese adds a creamy texture and richness to each bite.
Sliced Green Chilies: Thinly sliced green chilies served on the side provide a spicy kick for those who enjoy extra heat with their paratha.
Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side to allow diners to squeeze fresh lemon juice over the paratha for a tangy and refreshing flavor.
Thinly Sliced Onions: Crisp and thinly sliced onions served alongside the paratha add a crunchy texture and a hint of pungent flavor.
Yogurt Sauce: A simple yogurt sauce flavored with salt, pepper, and a pinch of roasted cumin powder makes a refreshing dip for the paratha.

Delicious Desserts To Serve Along With Amritsar Paneer Paratha:

While Amritsar Paneer Paratha is typically enjoyed as a savory dish, you can pair it with certain desserts to create a balanced and satisfying meal. Here are some suitable desserts that complement the flavors of Paneer Paratha.

Rasgulla: These light and spongy cottage cheese balls soaked in sugar syrup are refreshing and provide a sweet finish to the meal.
Rabri: Thickened milk infused with saffron, cardamom, and nuts creates a rich and creamy dessert that pairs well with the flavors of Paneer Paratha.
Jalebi: Crispy and syrupy spirals of deep-fried batter soaked in sugar syrup offer a delightful combination of sweetness and crunch that complements the savory paratha.
Badam Halwa: A rich and nutty dessert made from almonds, ghee, sugar, and aromatic spices, Badam Halwa provides a luxurious and satisfying end to the meal.
Shahi Tukda: This royal dessert features fried bread slices soaked in flavored sugar syrup, topped with thickened milk (rabri), and garnished with nuts and saffron, offering a decadent and flavorful treat.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with a variety of seasonal fruits provides a light and healthy option to balance out the meal and refresh the palate.

A Typical Punjabi Lunch Scenario With Amritsar Paneer Paratha As The Main Dish:

In a typical Punjabi lunch scenario featuring Amritsari Paneer Paratha as the main dish, the table is set with an array of tantalizing aromas and vibrant colors, embodying the essence of Punjabi hospitality and culinary tradition.

Setting the Scene:

Location: A cozy dining room or courtyard with ample seating for family and guests.

Ambience: Warm and inviting, with traditional Punjabi music playing softly in the background, creating a festive atmosphere.

Table Decor: Colorful tablecloth adorned with embroidered motifs, complemented by brass or copper utensils and vibrant floral centerpieces.

Palak Paneer: Creamy spinach and paneer curry flavored with aromatic spices.
Dal Tadka: Tempered lentils cooked to perfection and garnished with cilantro.
Mixed Vegetable Raita: Refreshing yogurt-based side dish with mixed vegetables seasoned with cumin powder.
Pickle: Tangy mango pickle or mixed vegetable pickle to add a zingy flavor punch.
Dessert:
- Gulab Jamun: Soft and syrupy milk dumplings served warm, garnished with chopped nuts.
- Kheer: Fragrant rice pudding infused with cardamom and saffron, topped with slivered almonds and pistachios.
Dining Experience:
- The meal begins with everyone gathering around the table, eagerly anticipating the delicious feast ahead.
- Guests help themselves to generous servings of Paneer Paratha and the accompanying dishes, passing them around family-style.
- Conversations flow freely as everyone enjoys the hearty and flavorful meal, savoring each bite of the buttery parathas and rich curries.
- Laughter and joy fill the air as stories are shared and bonds strengthened over the communal dining experience.
- The meal concludes with satisfied smiles and contented bellies, leaving cherished memories of a delightful punjabi lunch.
- In this typical Punjabi lunch scenario, Amritsari Paneer Paratha takes center stage, bringing together loved ones and creating moments of warmth, togetherness, and culinary delight.

Takeaway:

Amritsari Paneer Paratha is a celebration of Punjabi culinary artistry and heartfelt hospitality. Each bite is a journey through the vibrant streets of Amritsar, where tradition and innovation dance in harmony on your palate. From the flaky layers of dough enveloping the rich paneer filling to the symphony of spices that awaken your senses, every aspect of this dish is crafted with love and reverence for the culinary heritage it represents. As you savor the last morsel, let it linger on your taste buds, a reminder of the warmth, joy, and camaraderie shared around the table. Amritsari Paneer Paratha isn't just a meal; it's a memory to cherish, a testament to the timeless allure of Punjabi cuisine.

Happy Cooking!

Ingredients