Paneer Pyaza is a culinary masterpiece that has won the hearts of not only the people of Bihar but also of its neighboring state, Jharkhand. This delicious dish is a blend of flavours, combining the richness of the cheese with the sweetness of the onion. In this article, we will take you on a gastronomic journey through the recipe of Paneer Pyaza, a dish that is easy to make and tastes delicious.
Origin of Paneer Pyaza
Paneer Pyaza is believed to have originated in the northern regions of India, where dairy products are a major part of the diet. Its popularity gradually spread to Bihar and Jharkhand, where it became an integral part of the local cuisine. The name "Paneer Pyaza" literally means "paneer with onions", highlighting the importance of onions in this dish.
Ingredients for Paneer Pyaza
To prepare this delicious dish you will need the following ingredients:
For Paneer Marinade:
250 grams paneer, in cubes
1/2 cup thick curd
1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder
salt to taste
For gravy:
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tomatoes, pureed
2 green chillies, finely chopped
1/2 cup fresh cream
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 tsp garam masala
1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
1/2 tsp kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
cooking oil
fresh coriander for garnishing
cooking instructions
Now, let's look at the cooking process:
1. Marinating the Paneer
Mix curd, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder and salt in a bowl.
Add paneer pieces in this marinade and leave them for 15-20 minutes.
2. Fry the Paneer
Heat oil in a pan and fry the marinated paneer pieces until they turn golden brown.
Remove the paneer from the pan and keep it aside.
3. Preparing gravy
If necessary add some more oil in the same pan.
- Add cumin and let it crackle.
Add finely chopped onion and fry until it becomes transparent and light brown.
4. Adding spices
Add green chilli, coriander powder and garam masala. Fry for a few minutes.
- Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the gravy.
5. Bringing it all together
Add fried paneer pieces to the gravy and mix gently.
Add fresh cream and kasoori methi.
Cook on low flame for a few minutes until the cheese absorbs the flavour.
6. Garnish and serve
Garnish your Paneer Pyaza with fresh coriander leaves.
Serve it hot with naan, roti or boiled rice.
Why is Paneer Pyaza a favorite dish?
The popularity of Paneer Pyaza can be attributed to its unique combination of flavours. The sweetness of the onions complements the creamy richness of the cheese, while the spices add a delightful kick to each bite. This dish is not only a favorite in homes but is also commonly found in restaurants in Bihar and Jharkhand. Paneer Pyaza is a culinary gem that showcases the diverse and delicious cuisine of Bihar and Jharkhand. With its simple preparation and unique taste, it has become a staple food in households and an all-time favorite among food lovers. So, why not try your hand at making this delicious dish and experience the culinary delights loved by the two neighboring states?
