Bengali Steamed Paneer Bhapa Recipe: Easy Bengali Skillet-Free Paneer Dish

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Bhapa Paneer, a traditional Bengali dish, is a steamed paneer recipe that showcases the simplicity and elegance of Bengali cuisine. This dish is made by marinating paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a mixture of spices, mustard paste, and yogurt, then steaming it to perfection. The result is a tender, flavourful, and aromatic dish that is often served with rice or roti.

Details

Course Main Course
Cuisine Bengali, West Bengal, India
Servings 4-6 people
Preparation Time 20 minutes
Cooking Time 15-20 minutes
Calories Approximately 250-300 per serving

Ingredients

  • 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
  • 1/2 cup mustard paste (made from black mustard seeds and water)
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon mustard oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2-3 green chilies, slit
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Method

  1. In a large bowl, mix together the mustard paste, yogurt, oil, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder, and salt.
  2. Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and mix well to coat the paneer evenly.
  3. Cover the bowl with a lid and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the paneer to marinate.
  4. Transfer the marinated paneer mixture to a steamer basket or a heatproof bowl that can fit into a steamer.
  5. Steam the paneer mixture over boiling water for 15-20 minutes, or until the paneer is tender and the flavors have melded together.
  6. Remove the steamer from the heat and garnish with green chilies and cilantro if desired.
  7. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the dish before serving.

Special Note

Bhapa Paneer is a dish that embodies the essence of Bengali cuisine, which often emphasizes the use of mustard paste and steaming as cooking methods. This dish is particularly special because it is often served during special occasions and festivals in Bengal, highlighting the rich culinary heritage of the region. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the unique flavour profile makes Bhapa Paneer a standout dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.

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