Introduce
Paneer Lababdar is a classic North Indian dish known for its creamy texture and bold flavors. This dish, often found in Indian restaurants, combines soft paneer cubes with a luscious tomato-based gravy, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or everyday meals. Follow this simple recipe to prepare an authentic Paneer Lababdar at home.
Ingredients for Paneer Lababdar
Main Ingredients
- 250g Paneer (Cottage Cheese) – Cut into cubes
- 2 tbsp Oil or Ghee – For cooking
- 1 tsp Cumin Seeds – Adds a warm, earthy aroma
- 1 Onion (Finely Chopped) – For the base of the gravy
- 1 Tomato (Pureed) – Brings natural sweetness and tang
- ½ Cup Yogurt – Enhances the creaminess
- 1-2 Green Chilies (Chopped) – Adjust spice level as needed
- 1-inch Ginger (Grated) – Adds depth to the dish
Spices & Seasonings
- ½ tsp Turmeric Powder – Provides a vibrant color
- ½ tsp Coriander Powder – Gives a mild, citrusy flavor
- 1 tsp Red Chili Powder – Adds a spicy kick
- ¼ tsp Garam Masala – Enhances the aroma and flavor
- Salt (As per taste)
For the Creamy Texture
- 1 Cup Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, luxurious texture
- ¼ Cup Fresh Cilantro (Chopped) – For garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Preparing the Base
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and allow them to splutter.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
2. Cooking the Tomatoes & Spices
- Stir in grated ginger and chopped green chilies. Sauté for a minute.
- Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates.
- Mix in turmeric, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well and let the spices cook for a couple of minutes.
3. Creating the Rich Gravy
- Lower the heat and gradually add yogurt, stirring continuously to prevent curdling.
- Let it simmer for a few minutes until the mixture thickens.
4. Adding the Paneer
- Gently add paneer cubes and coat them evenly with the gravy.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently to blend everything together.
- Sprinkle garam masala and let the curry simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Garnishing & Serving
- Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Rich & Creamy Texture – A delightful treat for paneer lovers
✔️ Easy to Make – Requires simple ingredients and quick steps
✔️ Perfect for Special Meals – A great dish to impress guests
✔️ Customizable – Adjust spices and ingredients to your preference
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What Makes Paneer Lababdar Different from Paneer Butter Masala?
Paneer Lababdar has a thicker and more textured gravy, often using grated paneer in the sauce, whereas Paneer Butter Masala has a smoother, buttery texture.
2. Can I Make a Vegan Version of Paneer Lababdar?
Yes! Substitute paneer with tofu and replace heavy cream with cashew cream or coconut cream for a vegan-friendly version.
3. Is Paneer Lababdar Spicy?
The spice level is moderate, but you can adjust it by increasing or decreasing the chili powder and green chilies.
4. What Pairs Best with Paneer Lababdar?
It tastes best with naan, tandoori roti, or basmati rice. You can also pair it with jeera rice for extra flavor.
5. How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store Paneer Lababdar in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
Thank You for Reading!
We appreciate you taking the time to explore this delicious Paneer Lababdar recipe. If you try this dish, let us know how it turned out in the comments! Stay connected for more amazing recipes. Happy Cooking!