Cheesy Paneer Makhmali is a rich and creamy paneer dish that combines the smoothness of paneer with a luscious, cheesy gravy. This dish is perfect for special occasions or when you want to indulge in something truly delicious.
Paneer Makhmali is known for its velvety texture and rich flavor, which comes from the combination of cashews, fresh cream, and a blend of aromatic spices. The addition of cheese takes this dish to the next level, making it even more indulgent and satisfying.
Cheesy Paneer Makhmali
Ingredients
For the Spice Paste:
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
- 18-20 black peppercorns
- 3 cloves
- 1 inch cinnamon stick
- 2 whole red chilies
- ½ tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tbsp dry coconut sliced
- ½ cup cashews
For the Gravy:
- 3 tbsp oil
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp ginger garlic paste
- 1 medium-sized onion ground to a paste
- 3 tomatoes pureed
- ¾ cup curd
- 250 grams paneer cut into cubes
- Salt to taste
- ½ tsp Kashmiri red chili powder
- ¼ tsp garam masala
- ½ cup fresh cream
- ½ cup grated cheese cheddar or mozzarella
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Paste
- Take all the spices (coriander seeds, black peppercorns, cloves, cinnamon stick, red chilies, cumin seeds, and dry coconut) in a pan and dry roast them for 3-4 minutes on low heat until fragrant.
- Let them cool. Transfer to a grinder, add cashews and ¼ cup water, and grind to make a smooth paste.
Step 2: Cook the Gravy
- In a Kadai or deep pan, heat 3 tablespoons of oil on medium to high flame.
- Add bay leaves and sauté for a few seconds.
- Add the ginger garlic paste and sauté until the raw aroma goes away.
- Add the onion paste and sauté until it becomes golden brown.
- Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
- Add the curd and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously.
Step 3: Combine and Cook
- Add the cashew spice paste to the pan and cook for a few seconds.
- Add the paneer pieces, 1 cup of water, red chili powder, garam masala, salt, and fresh cream. Mix gently.
- Cover with a lid and cook on low flame for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Serve
- Add the grated cheese to the gravy and stir until it melts and combines well with the sauce.
- Serve the Cheesy Paneer Makhmali hot with naan, laccha paratha, garlic naan, roti, or roomali roti. It also pairs well with plain rice or jeera rice.
Tips and Information
- Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, double the amount of red chili powder.
- Paneer: Use fresh and soft paneer for the best texture and flavor.
- Spices: Use freshly ground spices for a more aromatic gravy.
- Sweetness: Add 1 teaspoon of sugar to the gravy for a unique flavor.
Preparing Cheesy Paneer Makhmali at home allows you to enjoy this restaurant-quality dish with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re familiar with North Indian cuisine or exploring it for the first time, Cheesy Paneer Makhmali is a dish that will surely delight your taste buds.