Paneer Paratha Recipe: A Delicious and Filling Indian Flatbread
Recipe by Healthy BiteCuisine: Indian, North Indian20 minutes
20 minutes
200
1 paratha
24g per paratha
Paneer Paratha is a popular North Indian flatbread stuffed with a spiced paneer (Indian cottage cheese) filling. It’s soft, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a quick lunchbox option, or a comforting dinner, Paneer Paratha is a versatile dish that pairs perfectly with yogurt, chutney, or pickles. Let’s get started with this wholesome recipe!
Ingredients
2 cups whole wheat flour (atta)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon oil or ghee
Water, as needed (to knead the dough)
1 cup paneer (grated or crumbled)
1 green chili, finely chopped
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped
Salt to taste
Ghee or oil for frying
Directions
Preparing the Dough:
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour, salt, and oil. Gradually add water and knead it into a soft, smooth dough.
- Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20-30 minutes.
Preparing the Paneer Filling:
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix grated paneer, green chili, ginger, cumin seeds, red chili powder, garam masala, kasuri methi (if using), coriander leaves, and salt. Combine well.
Rolling and Stuffing the Paratha:
- Divide the Dough: Divide the dough into equal-sized balls.
- Roll the Dough: Take one ball of dough and roll it into a small circle (about 4-5 inches in diameter).
- Add the Filling: Place 2-3 tablespoons of the paneer filling in the center of the rolled dough. Bring the edges together to seal the filling inside and pinch to close.
- Roll the Stuffed Ball: Gently roll the stuffed dough ball into a larger circle (about 6-8 inches in diameter). Be careful not to press too hard to avoid tearing.
Cooking the Paratha:
- Heat the Tawa: Heat a tawa (flat griddle) over medium heat.
- Cook the Paratha: Place the rolled paratha on the hot tawa. Cook for 30-40 seconds until bubbles appear.
- Flip and Grease: Flip the paratha and spread some ghee or oil on the cooked side. Flip again and apply ghee on the other side.
- Cook Until Golden: Cook until both sides are golden brown and crispy. Repeat for the remaining dough and filling.
Tips & Variations
- Healthier Option: Use minimal oil or ghee while cooking for a lighter version.
- Vegan Option: Replace paneer with crumbled tofu for a vegan-friendly filling.
- Extra Flavor: Add finely chopped onions or grated carrots to the paneer filling for added texture and taste.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve Paneer Paratha with plain yogurt, mint chutney, or a side of pickles for a complete meal.
Dietary Advice
- Paneer Paratha is rich in protein and carbs, making it a filling and satisfying meal. Here’s some dietary advice to enjoy it while staying mindful of your health:
- Portion Control:
Stick to 1-2 parathas per meal to avoid overeating, as they are high in calories and carbs. - Protein Boost:
Paneer is a great source of protein, but you can further boost the protein content by pairing the paratha with a side of plain Greek yogurt or spiced dal. - Add Fiber:
Serve Paneer Paratha with a side of fresh salad or sautéed vegetables to increase fiber intake and support digestion. - Low-Fat Option:
Use low-fat paneer and reduce the amount of ghee or oil used for frying if you’re watching your fat intake. - For Diabetics:
Paneer Paratha is relatively high in carbs due to the wheat flour dough. Limit portion sizes and pair it with fiber-rich sides like spinach sabzi or cucumber raita to manage blood sugar levels. - For Weight Watchers:
Use multigrain flour instead of whole wheat flour for added nutrients and to keep you fuller for longer. - Travel-Friendly:
Paneer Paratha is an excellent travel-friendly option as it stays fresh for hours. Pack it with a small container of pickle or chutney for a wholesome on-the-go meal.
- Portion Control: