If you are tired of monotonous dishes like Mattar Paneer and Shahi Paneer, and you want to try smoky, spicy, and aromatic Paneer Khurchan, which is served in cafes or restaurants but you cannot recreate this taste at home, then there is no need to worry. Chef Kunal Kapur published a simple recipe for making restaurant-style Paneer Khurchan on Instagram that can solve this problem in mere minutes.
It is important to note that the term 'Khurchan' refers to the process of grinding and mixing fragrant spices stuck to the bottom of the pan with pieces of Paneer cheese. This simple recipe from Chef Kunal is perfect if you want to prepare something special and quick on the weekend.
How to make Paneer Khurchan:
To make Paneer Khurchan, you will need: 250 grams of Paneer cheese, cut into long and thin pieces; 1 large onion, sliced into thin strips; 1 bell pepper, sliced into thin strips; 1 tomato, deseeded and sliced into strips; 1 tablespoon of ginger and garlic paste; 2 green chilies, halved; 1 teaspoon of cumin; 1 teaspoon of red pepper powder; ½ teaspoon of turmeric; 1 teaspoon of coriander powder; ½ teaspoon of garam masala; salt to taste and a little dried Kasuri methi; 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee and 1 tablespoon of butter (margarine).
Cooking process:
First, heat a wide and heavy pot or cast iron skillet, adding the oil and butter, and heat over high heat. After the oil becomes hot, add the cumin and let it sizzle. Then stir in the ginger and garlic paste and green chilies and fry for one minute.
Next, add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Fry on high heat, stirring constantly, until the vegetables retain their crunchy texture. After that, add the sliced tomatoes and mix lightly, trying not to let them overcook. Add turmeric, red pepper, coriander powder, and salt, and fry everything together for about 30 seconds.
The moment of magic arrives: add the Paneer pieces and crushed Kasuri methi. Gently stir over high heat so that the Paneer absorbs the aromas of the spices stuck to the bottom of the pan and acquires a wonderful smoky flavor. Finally, sprinkle the dish with garam masala and finely chopped fresh cilantro for garnish.
The ready, spicy Paneer Khurchan can be served hot with tandoori roti, naan, or paratha. It can also be paired with pulao and puri, and if you add raita, the taste of this dish will double.