Paneer, also known as Indian cottage cheese, is a popular ingredient in many Indian households. It's rich in protein, low in carbs, and can be incorporated into various dishes that are both tasty and conducive to weight loss. Here are some healthy paneer recipes that can help you shed those extra pounds without compromising on flavor.
1.
Grilled Paneer TikkaIngredients:
- 200 grams paneer, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons yogurt
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Skewers
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt.
- Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and coat them well.
- Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill and lightly brush it with olive oil.
- Thread the paneer cubes onto the skewers and grill them until golden brown on all sides.
- Serve with a side of mint chutney and a fresh salad.
2.
Paneer BhurjiIngredients:
- 200 grams paneer, crumbled
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, finely chopped
- 1 green chili, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan and add the cumin seeds.
- Once they crackle, add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the green chili and tomatoes, cooking until the tomatoes soften.
- Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
- Add the crumbled paneer and cook for 5-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle garam masala on top and mix well.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve with whole wheat roti or as a filling for wraps.
3.
Palak PaneerIngredients:
- 200 grams paneer, cubed
- 250 grams spinach leaves, washed and chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 green chili, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 cup low-fat yogurt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Blanch the spinach leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then blend into a smooth paste.
- Heat olive oil in a pan and add the cumin seeds.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chili, cooking for a minute.
- Add the tomatoes and cook until they soften.
- Mix in the turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt.
- Add the spinach paste and cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the yogurt and paneer cubes, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with brown rice or whole wheat chapati.
4.
Paneer and Vegetable Stir-FryIngredients:
- 200 grams paneer, cubed
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute.
- Add the onions and cook until they turn translucent.
- Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and carrot, stirring for 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- Stir in the paneer cubes and soy sauce, cooking for another 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, either on its own or with a side of quinoa or brown rice.
Conclusion
Paneer is a fantastic ingredient that can be included in a variety of healthy recipes aimed at weight loss. Whether grilled, stir-fried, or incorporated into a curry, paneer provides a protein-rich option that can keep you full and satisfied. However, before making any significant dietary changes, it’s crucial to consult with a dietician to ensure these recipes align with your individual health needs. For personalized guidance, please consult your dietician or contact Dietician Natasha Mohan. Natasha Mohan offers a specialized diet plan for weight loss for females that can be tailored to meet your unique goals and dietary preferences.
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