Paneer Paratha: A Protein-Packed Delight for a Healthier You
People usually think healthy eating means sacrificing flavor and convenience. They’re used to preparing quick meals and making do with anything. Juggling between work, family and friends always keeps life busy. Quick and convenient meals are the only way and everyone is doing fine, until one day they aren’t.
As soon as you hit 30 your body changes in ways you cannot explain. You will constantly feel drained and exhausted. Sluggishness will begin to become a way of life. The missing piece of the puzzle here is protein intake and the fact that you need to pay attention to your diet.
Protein is the building block for our muscles. It is a very essential nutrient in maintaining healthy hair, nails, skin and even energy levels. Vegetarians may find it challenging to get enough protein. Paneer is an excellent food for vegetarians who want to increase their protein intake. It is versatile and can be used in various dishes and recipes to make a healthy as well as satisfying meal.
Paneer is rich in Calcium, Vitamin D and essential fats. Making it full of nutrients. If you do not eat meat, the sources you can get protein from become limited. Introducing paneer to your diet can bridge that gap. Paneer paratha is one of my favourite preparations with paneer. Let’s dive into how you can make this at home.
What is a Paneer Paratha?
An Indian flatbread stuffed with paneer and flavored with spices. Cooked until crispy and golden, they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s a delicious preparation, ideal for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Served with pickles, yogurt or chutneys, it is a complete meal in itself.
How To Make Paneer Paratha
Here is a super simple recipe for you to try making paneer paratha at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups wheat flour: this forms the base for the dough, it provides structure, texture, and whole-grain goodness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: salt enhances the flavor of the dough and balances the taste of the bread.
- 1 tablespoon oil: This helps make the dough soft and pliable, ensuring the paratha turns out tender and flaky.
- Water: Necessary to bind the ingredients together and form a smooth, elastic dough that’s easy to roll
- 250 grams paneer (grated): The star of the filling, paneer adds a creamy texture and a rich source of protein.
- Finely chopped coriander leaves: Add a fresh, herbal aroma that enhances the taste of the filling.
- 1-2 green chillis (chopped): For a touch of heat and a bit of zing in the filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Helps to bring out the flavors in the paneer mixture.
- 3/4 teaspoon red chilli powder: Adds depth and a mild spiciness to the filling.
- 3/4 teaspoon roasted cumin powder: Brings a warm, earthy flavor that complements the paneer and spice
- 1/3 teaspoon dry ginger powder: Adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the filling, enhancing the overall flavor.
Classic & Quick Paneer Paratha Recipe
Kneading the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix the wheat flour, salt, and a tablespoon of oil.
- Gradually add water (about ½ cup) while mixing, until the ingredients come together into a soft dough. If necessary, add more water a little at a time.
- Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. Once done, cover the dough and let it rest for 20–30 minutes to relax.
For convenience, you can also use the Rotimatic, which automates the dough preparation process. Simply add flour, water, and oil into the machine, set it to your desired consistency, and let the machine do the rest.
Preparing the Paneer Filling:
- In a bowl, combine the grated paneer, chopped green chilies, coriander, red chili powder, roasted cumin powder, dry ginger powder, and salt.
- Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed throughout the paneer.
Rolling the Parathas:
- After the dough has rested, divide it into small balls. Roll each ball between your palms until smooth.
- Dust each dough ball with a little flour and roll it into small circles (around 4-5 inches in diameter).
- Place a spoonful of the paneer filling in the center of one circle, leaving a gap around the edges.
- Place another rolled dough circle on top and press the edges together to seal.
- Gently roll the stuffed paratha again into a larger circle (6-7 inches in diameter).
- If you’re using the Rotimatic, you can pause the machine after the rolling step and stuff the parathas manually.
Cooking the Parathas:
- Heat a tawa (griddle) over medium heat. Once hot, place the paratha on the surface.
- Cook until you see small bubbles forming, then flip it. Drizzle a bit of oil or ghee on the surface.
- Cook the other side, and flip again, applying ghee or oil as needed. Cook until both sides are golden with crispy brown spots.
- Remove from the tawa and serve hot with yogurt or chutney.
Paneer stuffed paratha is a perfect combination of good taste and good health. Whether you are a working professional, a stay-at-home mom or even a fitness enthusiast it is a perfect recipe for nourishment and satisfaction.
To make it more convenient for you, Rotimatic has brought about a revolutionary change in the way you operate your kitchen. Preparing rotis, delicious parathas and more is an easy task with just the click of a button. Healthy eating will no longer be a hassle with Rotimatic it is a way of life.
Try this easy and delicious Paneer Paratha recipe today and add a healthy, protein-packed twist to your meals!