Paneer Polichathu

Paneer Polichathu

Paneer is an Indian cheese that has a high nutritive value. It is an excellent source of protein and also a rich source of selenium and potassium. Potassium benefits include curbing memory loss while selenium is used for infertility treatments. Paneer also has calcium and hence helps in treating osteoporosis by building stronger teeth and bones. 100 grams of paneer contains 18 grams of protein. Since paneer is loaded with protein, it can keep hunger at bay.

The following dish is made with paneer wrapped in banana leaf and cooked in coconut oil. It is a healthy vegetarian delight and makes a perfect meal by itself.

Ingredients

For Marinating Paneer –

• Paneer (cottage cheese) – 200 grams
• Red chilli powder – 1 tsp
• Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp
• Coriander powder – ½ tsp
• Cumin powder – ½ tsp
• Garam masala powder – ¼ tsp
• Lemon juice – 1 tbsp
• Oil – 2 tsp
• Salt to taste

For Masala –

• 2 Large Onions Finely Chopped
• 3 Large Tomatoes Finely Chopped
• 1 tsp Ginger Garlic Paste
• 1 tsp Red Chilli Powder
• 1/4 tsp Turmeric Powder
• 1 tsp Coriander Powder
• 1/2 tsp Garam Masala Powder
• 1 tbsp Oil
• Salt
• Curry Leaves

Method

For Marinating Paneer

In a mixing bowl, add all the spice powders along with lemon juice and make a thick paste. Cut the paneer in half breadth-wise and coat it with the masala paste. Let it rest for 20-30 minutes. Heat a cast iron pan or a heavy bottomed pan and add the oil. Cook the paneer on both sides on medium flame till a golden-brown colour is attained.

For the Masala

To a pan, add coconut oil and onions and fry till the onions become translucent. Add ginger garlic paste and fry. Next add the finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn mushy. Add the spice powders listed and salt as needed. Cook until the oil starts to let go of the sides of the pan. Prepare the banana leaves by removing the thick vein that runs in the middle – don’t discard the vein as it can be used to tie the leaves. Expose the leaves to mild heat so that they become soft. Place some of the prepared masala on the banana leaf. Place a slice of paneer on top of it. Top it up with some more masala and carefully wrap it up. Tie the pack with the banana thread.

Place the wrapped-up paneer on a heated pan and cook covered for 4 to 5 minutes. Turn it and cook on the other side as well. Serve hot.