A Rich and Creamy Indian Curry
Paneer Lababdar is a decadent North Indian curry featuring soft paneer (Indian cottage cheese) simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based gravy. The addition of aromatic spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon gives it a warm and inviting flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup paneer, cubed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 bay leaf
- 2-3 green cardamoms
- 2 cloves
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt to taste
- Oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Prepare the Spices: Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the bay leaf, cardamoms, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in the garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until softened and mushy. Use a potato masher to mash the tomatoes.
- Add the Spices: Stir in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer the Curry: Add the water and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens slightly.
- Add the Paneer: Gently add the paneer cubes to the gravy and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the paneer is heated through.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for a few more minutes, or until the gravy has reached your desired consistency.
- Serve: Serve hot with naan or rice.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, you can use a combination of ghee and oil for cooking.
- Adjust the amount of red chili powder to your desired level of spice.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor and color.
Enjoy your delicious Paneer Lababdar!
Paneer Lababdar History:
Paneer Lababdar is a rich and flavorful Indian dish that has its roots in the Mughal cuisine. The word “Lababdar” comes from Persian and means “delectable” or “exquisite.” This dish is characterized by its creamy, tomato-based gravy, which is often infused with a blend of aromatic spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. The star ingredient, paneer, is a fresh Indian cheese that adds a delightful texture to the dish. While its exact origin is unclear, Paneer Lababdar likely emerged as a royal delicacy during the Mughal Empire, eventually making its way into the broader Indian culinary landscape. Today, it remains a popular and cherished dish enjoyed across the country.
