Pankaj Bhadouria's Paneer Afgani Recipe: A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Treat

Paneer Afgani, a unique and flavorful dish, is a must-try for anyone who loves Indian cuisine. Created by MasterChef Pankaj Bhadouria, this recipe features mild flavors with a touch of heat from green chilies and a delightful, creamy gravy. Despite its name, Paneer Afgani has no ties to Afghanistan but is a popular creation in Indian restaurants. It's a perfect blend of spices and textures, ideal for special occasions or when you're in the mood for something rich and indulgent.

Ingredients for Paneer Afgani:

• Paneer: 300g, cut into cubes
• Fresh coriander: 1 bunch
• Green chilies: 3-4, finely chopped
• Ginger & Garlic: Fresh, chopped or paste
• Spices: Coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, black pepper, kasuri methi, and cinnamon
• Curd: 1 cup
• Other ingredients: Onions (3, sliced), bay leaves, cloves, cardamoms, cream (optional), and salt

Step-by-Step Recipe:

• Marinate the Paneer: Begin by marinating the paneer with ginger-garlic paste, cumin seeds, crushed black pepper, asafoetida, and oil. Set the paneer aside to absorb the flavors.
• Prepare the Gravy: In a pan, sauté ginger, garlic, green chilies, and onions until the onions turn translucent. Add chopped coriander, blend the mixture into a smooth paste, and set it aside.
• Spice Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk curd with coriander powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, garam masala, and salt.
• Cooking the Gravy: Heat oil in a pan, add bay leaves, cinnamon, cardamoms, and cloves. Add the coriander-onion paste and cook for a few minutes before adding the curd-spice mixture. Stir well until the gravy thickens and oil begins to separate.
• Grill the Paneer: While the gravy cooks, grill the marinated paneer cubes until golden brown on both sides.
• Finish and Serve: Once the gravy is ready, add kasuri methi for a fragrant finish. Add the grilled paneer, stir, and simmer. Optionally, you can add a bit of cream for extra richness.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve this delicious Paneer Afgani with naan, paratha, or roti for a complete meal. Its rich flavors and creamy texture will leave you craving more!

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Why Try Paneer Afgani?

Paneer Afgani is an exquisite fusion of flavors with a creamy texture and subtle spices, making it a great dish for family dinners, special occasions, or just when you want a comforting meal. It combines the goodness of paneer with aromatic spices, creating a delicious, restaurant-style dish right at home.

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