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Paneer Kali Mirch Recipe: A Creamy and Peppery Delight
A North Indian dish called Paneer Kali Mirch, which means “Paneer in Black Pepper Sauce,” is rich and creamy. It blends the soft, velvety texture of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with the strong, spicy flavor of freshly ground black pepper. This dish is great for people who like a mix of creamy and slightly spicy foods. Paneer Kali Mirch is a must-try whether you are having people over for dinner or just want to make a cozy meal at home.
Who is This Recipe For and Why You’ll Love It
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Indian cuisine, particularly those who enjoy creamy, mildly spicy dishes. It’s a great option for vegetarians and can also be adapted for vegans using dairy-free alternatives. Paneer Kali Mirch pairs wonderfully with naan, roti, or steamed rice, making it a versatile addition to any meal. The combination of fresh cream, black pepper, and aromatic spices gives this dish a unique flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent.
Ingredients Needed
To make this delicious Paneer Kali Mirch, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 250g Paneer (cut into cubes)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Cream
- 1 tablespoon Butter or Ghee
- 1 tablespoon Oil
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
- 1 tablespoon Ginger-Garlic Paste
- 1 Onion (finely chopped)
- 2 Green Chilies (slit lengthwise)
- 1 teaspoon Black Peppercorns (freshly ground)
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Garam Masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh Coriander Leaves (for garnishing)
Kitchen Equipment Required
- A medium-sized frying pan or skillet
- Spatula
- Mortar and pestle (for grinding peppercorns)
- Knife and chopping board
- Mixing bowls
Instructions:
Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by cutting the paneer into cubes. If you prefer a softer texture, soak the paneer cubes in warm water for 10 minutes.
- Finely chop the onions and slit the green chilies lengthwise.
- Using a mortar and pestle, freshly grind the black peppercorns. Freshly ground pepper gives this dish its signature flavor, so don’t skip this step!
Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the oil and butter in a medium-sized frying pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Next, add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and cook for another 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
Add the Spices
- Stir in the turmeric powder and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for a minute to release the flavors of the spices.
- Add salt to taste.
Cook the Paneer
- Add the paneer cubes to the pan and gently toss them in the spice mixture. Be careful not to break the paneer cubes.
- Cook the paneer for 2-3 minutes, ensuring it is coated evenly with the spices.
Finish with Cream and Garnish
- Lower the heat and add fresh cream to the pan. Mix gently to combine.
- Simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the cream to blend with the spices.
- Sprinkle garam masala over the top and mix well.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and turn off the heat.
Serve Hot
Your Paneer Kali Mirch is ready to be served! Enjoy it hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Freshly Ground Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper makes all the difference in this recipe. It adds a robust and aromatic flavor that you won’t get from pre-ground pepper.
- Paneer Softness: If your paneer feels too firm, soak it in warm water for a few minutes before adding it to the dish.
- Balance the Heat: Adjust the number of green chilies based on your spice tolerance. If you like it milder, reduce the number of chilies or skip them altogether.
Variations and Swaps
- Make It Vegan: Swap paneer with tofu and use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of dairy cream for a vegan version of this dish.
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutrition by adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or green peas.
- Spice it Up: For an extra kick, add a dash of red chili powder along with the other spices.
Pairings and Serving Suggestions
- Serve Paneer Kali Mirch with soft and fluffy naan or garlic butter naan for a complete meal.
- It also pairs well with jeera rice or steamed basmati rice.
- Add a side of cucumber raita or a fresh green salad to balance the flavors.
