How to Make Handi Paneer at Home Like a Restaurant

 

 

Introduction

 

As I cook restaurant-style meals at home, I love the smell of the spices, the sound of the pan sizzling, and the adventure of a tasty culinary adventure. Let me take you on a flavorful journey, starting with the first time I tried making Handi Paneer.

 

When I first started cooking, I learned how to make Handi Paneer that tastes just as good as it does in the best restaurants. The dish is more than just a meal; it is a celebration of flavours. Let me show you how to make this beautiful dish that will take you to the heart of a traditional restaurant kitchen.

 

 
Handi Paneer with a Creamy Texture

 

Handi Paneer is a masterpiece. The name of the dish comes from the traditional handi, which is a cooking pot that gives the dish its own flavour. Tender paneer cubes are cooked in a rich, aromatic gravy that has been spiced by hand. The result is a culinary delight that captures the essence of traditional Indian food.

 

Learn how to make Handi Paneer with our step-by-step guide. Tender paneer cubes are marinated and then cooked slowly in a handi with a delicious mix of tomatoes, onions, and hand-ground spices. The dish has a creamy texture because the paneer soaks up the flavour of the aromatic gravy.

Ingredients

Ingredients of Handi Paneer

• Cottage Cheese (Paneer)

• Oil

• Ghee

• 4-5 bay leaves

• 2 black cardamoms

• 5-6 cloves

• A handful of peppercorns

• 1 cup finely chopped onions

• 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste

• 1 tsp green chili paste

• 1 tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp red chili powder

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• 1 bowl chopped tomatoes

• 1 tbsp tomato puree

• 4 tsp cashew nut paste

• A handful of khoya/mawa

• Salt to taste

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 1 tsp cardamom powder

• ½ tsp mace powder

• 2 tsp butter

• 1 cup cream

• 1 bowl freshly chopped coriander leaves

• 1 big pinch dry fenugreek leaves powder (kasuri methi)

 

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Instructions

Instructions of Handi Paneer

1. Preparing the Base:

• Heat Oil and Ghee: Take some oil and add 2 tsp of ghee in a cooking pan. When it heats up, add 4-5 bay leaves, 2 black cardamoms, 5-6 cloves, and a handful of peppercorns. Roast them until a nice aroma arises.

2. Sautéing Onions:

• Add Onions: Add 1 cup of finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté well until the onions turn brown.

3. Adding Ginger-Garlic and Chili Paste:

• Incorporate Pastes: As the onions turn brown, add 2 tsp of ginger-garlic paste, 1 tsp of green chili paste, and a little water to it. Cook them together.

4. Spicing the Gravy:

• Add Spices: Now add 1 tsp of turmeric powder, 1 tsp of red chili powder, and 1 tsp of coriander powder. Stir it together and cook.

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5. Cooking Tomatoes:

• Add Tomatoes: Add 1 bowl of chopped tomatoes and a little water. Stir well, cover it, and let it cook until the oil starts oozing out.

6. Preparing the Gravy:

• Incorporate Tomato Puree and Cashew Paste: Add 1 tbsp of tomato puree and 4 tsp of cashew nut paste with water. Mix them into the gravy.

7. Adding Khoya and Spices:

• Mix in Khoya: Mix a handful of khoya/mawa into this and let it cook. Add salt, 1 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp cardamom powder, and ½ tsp of mace powder. Let it cook.

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8. Final Touches:

• Add Butter and Cream: After a few minutes, add 2 tsp of butter, 1 cup of cream, and a handful of chopped coriander leaves. Finish it with a big pinch of fenugreek leaves powder.

9. Serving:

• Prepare Paneer: Dice some paneer and place them in a serving bowl directly without cooking.

• Pour Gravy: Pour the prepared gravy over the paneer. Garnish with some khoya/mawa and fresh coriander leaves.

10. Serve: Your Handi Paneer is now ready to be served hot and delicious. Enjoy!

 

 

Cooking Tips

 

1. Paneer Quality Matters: For a creamy feel, pick paneer that is fresh and of good quality.
2. Hand-Blend Spices: Spices that are ground by hand look more real; take the time to grind them for the best flavour.
3. Marination Magic: Let the yogurt and spices soak into the paneer for a better flavour and more softness.
4. Low and Slow Cooking: Let the flavours blend and get stronger by simmering the handi on low heat.

 

With these expert tips, you can learn how to make a perfect Handi Paneer.
 

 

Pairing Guide

 

With these expert tips, you can learn how to make a perfect Handi Paneer.

 

1. Naan or Roti: The best things to eat with creamy Handi Paneer.
2. Garlic Rice: The dish's strong flavours go well with the spicy garlic rice.

 

Discover the art of pairing to elevate your Handi Paneer feast.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Handi Paneer

 

1. Q: Can I use store-bought paneer for Handi Paneer? A: While fresh homemade paneer is recommended, high-quality store-bought paneer can be a convenient alternative.

2. Q: How long should I marinate the paneer for the best results? A: Marinate the paneer for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate and enhance its tenderness.

3. Q: Is it necessary to use a traditional handi for this recipe? A: While a handi adds a unique flavor, you can use a heavy-bottomed pan if a handi is not available.

4. Q: Can I adjust the spice level according to my preference? A: Absolutely, tailor the spice level by adjusting the quantity of green chilies and red chili powder.

5. Q: Can I prepare Handi Paneer in advance for a party? A: Yes, Handi Paneer can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving; it tends to develop even richer flavors over time.

6. Q: Can I substitute yogurt with cream in the marinade? A: While yogurt adds a tangy flavor, cream can be used for a richer taste, but adjust the quantity accordingly.

7. Q: How can I prevent the paneer from turning rubbery during cooking? A: Ensure that you cook the paneer on low heat and avoid overcooking to maintain its soft texture.

8. Q: Can I freeze leftover Handi Paneer for later consumption? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover Handi Paneer for up to a month; reheat gently for the best results.

9. Q: What makes the hand-ground spice blend unique in this recipe? A: Hand-ground spices impart a fresh and authentic flavor, elevating the overall taste of Handi Paneer.

10. Q: Can I add vegetables to Handi Paneer for a variation? A: Certainly, you can add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or peas to create a delightful variation.

 

Explore these FAQs to master Handi Paneer and enjoy the rich and aromatic flavors of this classic Indian dish. Happy cooking!

 

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