Punjabi Chole Paneer Recipe
Punjabi Chole Paneer Recipe is a Tasty and hearty North Indian dish that perfectly combines the richness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with the bold, spicy flavors of chickpeas. This restaurant style chole paneer recipe brings together two all-time favorites, making it a must-try for vegetarians and anyone who appreciates flavorful, satisfying meals. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish paired with rotis, parathas, or rice, this dish is a true delight. Follow our step-by-step guide to prepare Chole Paneer at home and create a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients for Restaurant Style Chole Paneer Recipe
For the Chhole (Chickpeas):
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (chole), soaked overnight
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or mustard oil)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon chole masala (available in stores or homemade)
- Salt to taste
- Water for cooking
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
For the Paneer:
- 200 grams paneer (cottage cheese), cubed
- 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter) or oil
- Salt to taste
- A pinch of red chili powder (optional)
Step-by-Step Chole Paneer Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Chickpeas (Chole)
Soak the Chickpeas:
- Begin by soaking the dried chickpeas in enough water for about 8 hours or overnight. This helps in softening the chickpeas, ensuring they cook faster.
- Once soaked, drain the water and wash the chickpeas well under running water.
Pressure Cook the Chickpeas:
- In a pressure cooker, add the soaked chickpeas along with fresh water (around 3 cups). Add a pinch of salt and cook the chickpeas for about 4-5 whistles or until they are tender and soft. The chickpeas should be fully cooked but not mushy.
- Once done, set the cooked chickpeas aside.
Step 2: Cooking the Chole Gravy
Prepare the Base:
- Warm 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or kadai on medium heat. Add cumin seeds and allow them to splutter.
- Add finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté them until they turn golden brown. This will add a depth of flavor to the gravy.
Add Ginger-Garlic Paste and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw aroma fades.
- Pour in the pureed tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil begins to separate from the masala. This helps cook the base thoroughly and allows the flavors to blend together.
Spices:
- Now, add the dry spices: coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and chole masala. Mix well to coat the masala with the tomato and onion mixture.
- If the mixture looks too dry, you can add a splash of water or a little oil to prevent it from burning.
Add the Cooked Chickpeas:
- Add the cooked chickpeas to the masala base. Stir well to combine and coat the chickpeas with the spices.
- Add water to achieve the desired gravy consistency. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and thicken.
Season the Gravy:
- Add salt to taste and stir in the garam masala for that perfect aromatic finish. Let the gravy simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Finish with Fresh Coriander:
- Garnish the chhole with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.
Step 3: Preparing the Paneer (Cottage Cheese)
Fry the Paneer:
- Heat a non-stick pan or tawa and add 1 tablespoon of ghee or oil. Once the oil is hot, add the paneer cubes and lightly fry them until golden brown on all sides. This step adds a crispy texture to the paneer, enhancing its flavor.
- If you prefer softer paneer, you can skip frying and directly add the raw paneer cubes to the gravy later.
Optional Flavoring:
- If you want an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of red chili powder over the fried paneer cubes. This adds a little kick to the otherwise mild-flavored paneer.
Step 4: Combining Chole and Paneer
Mix the Fried Paneer with the Chole Gravy:
- Once your chickpeas are well-cooked and the gravy is rich and flavorful, gently add the fried paneer cubes into the chhole.
- Stir carefully to avoid breaking the paneer. Let the paneer soak up the flavors of the chhole gravy for 5-7 minutes on low heat. This will allow the dish to blend beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish the Chana Paneer with some fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy finish.
- Serve hot with steamed rice, chapati, or even naan. You can also pair it with a side of onion salad or pickles for extra flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Chole Paneer Recipe
Chickpeas Texture:
- Make sure not to overcook the chickpeas. Soft yet firm chickpeas hold up better in the gravy and don’t break apart.
Paneer Variations:
- If you like softer paneer, feel free to skip the frying step and add fresh, cubed paneer directly to the gravy.
Chole Masala (Chana Masala):
- Use good quality chole masala or make your own blend using spices like cumin, coriander powder, dried mango powder, and garam masala.
Gravy Consistency:
- Adjust the amount of water based on how thick or thin you prefer your gravy. If you like it thick, use less water and allow it to simmer longer.
Spice Level:
- Adjust the spice level according to your preference. You can increase or decrease the number of chilies or chili powder based on your heat tolerance.
What are the Benefits of Chole Paneer Recipe
Chole Paneer Recipe is a nutritious and delicious dish that combines the health benefits of chickpeas (Chole) and paneer (Indian cottage cheese). Here are some key benefits:
- Rich in Protein: The combination of chickpeas and paneer provides a significant amount of protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
- Supports Heart Health: Chickpeas are high in fiber, which helps lower bad cholesterol, while paneer contains healthy fats that support heart health when consumed in moderation.
- High in Fiber: The fiber in chickpeas aids digestion, prevents constipation, and helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it a great option for diabetics.
- Boosts Bone Health: Paneer is rich in calcium, promoting strong bones and teeth. Chickpeas also contain magnesium, which supports bone density.
- Aids Weight Management: The protein and fiber in Chhole Paneer help keep you full longer, reducing hunger and aiding in weight management.
- Promotes Healthy Skin and Hair: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, this dish supports healthy skin and hair growth.
- Improves Digestive Health: The fiber in chickpeas promotes a healthy digestive system, reducing bloating and improving gut health.
- Strengthens Immunity: Both chickpeas and paneer contain nutrients that help boost the immune system, keeping infections at bay.
- Stabilizes Blood Sugar: With a low glycemic index, chickpeas help stabilize blood sugar levels, making this dish ideal for diabetics.
Incorporating Chole Paneer Recipe into your diet provides a flavorful, balanced, and healthy meal packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Conclusion
Paneer Chana Masala Recipe is the perfect dish to serve for family gatherings, parties, or any occasion that calls for something comforting yet flavorful. With its rich chickpea gravy and creamy paneer, this dish is sure to win hearts. Serve it with your favorite Indian bread or rice, and it will be an instant hit. So, follow this step-by-step guide to make this hearty veg delight at home and enjoy the wonderful burst of flavors in every bite!
