Paneer Paturi 

Ingredients:

Black mustard seeds 3 tbsp

White mustard seeds 3 tbsp

Green chilli 3 pcs

Salt ½ tbsp

Turmeric 1 tsp

Poppy seeds 1 tbsp

Sugar ½ tbsp

Mustard oil 1 tbsp

Sour curd 2 tbsp

Coconut ¼ cup

Paneer thick slices 4-5 pcs

 

Method:

To prepare the delectable Paneer Paturi, a traditional Bengali delicacy, follow these simple steps. This dish combines the creaminess of paneer with a blend of flavorful spices, all encased in a banana leaf for a unique and aromatic culinary experience.

 

Begin by assembling the necessary ingredients: white mustard seeds, black mustard seeds, green chilli, salt, turmeric powder, poppy seeds, sugar, mustard oil, sour curd, grated coconut, fresh paneer slices, and banana leaves.

 

In a mixer jar, combine a tablespoon each of white and black mustard seeds. 

Add in a couple of green chillies, a pinch of salt, and half a teaspoon of turmeric powder. Include a tablespoon of poppy seeds and a teaspoon of sugar. 

Drizzle in a teaspoon of pungent mustard oil. 

Spoon in a dollop of sour curd to balance the flavours. 

Toss in a handful of grated coconut to add richness. 

To facilitate grinding, add a little water. Blend the ingredients into a smooth paste, vibrant with hues and fragrant with spices.

 

Now, take the fresh paneer slices and generously coat them with the prepared masala paste. 

The mixture's vibrant flavours will infuse the paneer, lending it a delightful kick. 

Carefully fold the masala-coated paneer slices into clean, pliable banana leaves. 

Secure the packets by gently tying them, ensuring the fragrant juices and aromas remain locked within.

 

In a sturdy pan, heat mustard oil until it shimmers with warmth. Gently lay the banana leaf parcels into the pan. Let the paneer cook on each side until it develops a rich, golden hue. The mustard oil's pungent aroma will mingle with the fragrant spices, creating an enticing scent.

 

Cover the pan with a lid to allow the paneer to cook thoroughly and absorb the flavours fully. 

The sizzle and crackle of the cooking process will excite your senses as you anticipate the delightful end result.

 

Once cooked, remove the paneer parcels from the pan. 

Gently unwrap the banana leaves, revealing the beautifully spiced paneer within.

The blending of aromatic spices and the natural sweetness of coconut will captivate your taste buds.

 

Your Paneer Paturi is now ready to be savoured. 

 

The tender, flavorful paneer, enriched with the symphony of spices and the earthy charm of banana leaves, will transport you to the heart of Bengal's culinary tradition. Serve it with steaming rice or enjoy it as a standalone delicacy.