How to Make Lemon Paneer: A Tangy and Creamy Delight
Lemon paneer is a simple, refreshing, and tangy dish that perfectly combines the creaminess of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with the zestiness of lemon. It’s easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with roti, naan, or rice. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 200 grams paneer (cut into cubes)
- 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 green chili (finely chopped, optional for spice)
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- Juice of 1 large lemon (approximately 2 tablespoons)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves (chopped, for garnish)
- ¼ cup water (optional, for a saucier consistency)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cut the paneer into bite-sized cubes and set aside.
- Finely chop the onion, garlic, and green chili.
- Juice the lemon and keep it ready.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until aromatic.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in the minced garlic and green chili (if using) and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Add Spices
- Lower the heat and add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala.
- Mix well, allowing the spices to blend with the onions and garlic.
Step 4: Cook the Paneer
- Gently add the paneer cubes to the pan and toss to coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, turning the paneer occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Add Lemon Juice
- Lower the heat and pour the lemon juice over the paneer.
- Mix gently to combine, ensuring the paneer absorbs the tangy flavor.
- Add a splash of water if you prefer a slightly saucier consistency, and simmer for 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with roti, naan, or steamed rice.
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Paneer
- Use fresh paneer for the best texture. If the paneer is store-bought, soak it in warm water for 10 minutes before cooking to make it soft.
- Adjust the lemon juice to your taste for more or less tanginess.
- Avoid overcooking the paneer, as it can become rubbery.
Enjoy this tangy and creamy lemon paneer dish, perfect for a light yet flavorful meal!
Yes, you can eat lemon with paneer, and it is a common combination in many dishes. The tangy flavor of lemon complements the creamy, mild taste of paneer, enhancing the overall flavor. Lemon also helps in digestion and adds a refreshing twist to paneer-based recipes, making it both delicious and healthy.
Lemon should be avoided when cooking delicate dishes, as its acidity can alter the texture or flavor, such as in certain desserts or cream-based sauces. It may also not pair well with certain medications, as it can interact with them. Additionally, using lemon on certain fish or seafood can overpower their natural taste if not balanced properly.
To remove the lemon taste from paneer, rinse the cubes under cold water to dilute the acidity. You can also soak the paneer in warm water for a few minutes to help neutralize the lemon flavor. If the flavor persists, cooking the paneer with spices or adding a dairy-based ingredient like cream can help balance the taste.
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