Paneer roti is a delicious Indian flatbread made with a mixture of whole wheat flour and crumbled paneer (Indian cottage cheese). Here’s a simple recipe to make paneer roti:
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (atta)
- 200 grams paneer (cottage cheese), crumbled
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- Water, as needed
For cooking:
- Ghee or oil for cooking
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, crumbled paneer, cumin seeds, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt.
- Mix the dry ingredients well, so the spices are evenly distributed.
- Gradually add water, little by little, and knead the mixture into a smooth, soft dough. The paneer will release moisture, so be careful not to make the dough too sticky. You want a dough that’s easy to work with and not too dry.
- Divide the dough into small, golf ball-sized portions.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and grease it with a little ghee or oil.
- Take one dough ball and flatten it into a thin, round roti directly on the hot skillet. You can use your hands or a rolling pin to shape the roti. Aim for a thin, even thickness.
- Cook the roti on one side until it starts to develop brown spots, then flip it over and cook the other side. You can add a little more ghee or oil if needed to make it crispy.
- Once both sides are cooked and the roti is golden brown, remove it from the skillet.
- Continue this process with the remaining dough balls, adding a touch of ghee or oil to the skillet before cooking each roti.
- Serve the paneer roti hot with a side of yogurt, pickle, or any curry of your choice.
Enjoy your homemade paneer roti! You can also add finely chopped herbs, onions, or green chilies to the dough for additional flavor if you like.
What is paneer, and where can I buy it?
Paneer is a fresh Indian cheese commonly used in various dishes. You can find it in Indian grocery stores or even make it at home by curdling milk with lemon juice or vinegar.
Can I use store-bought paneer, or should I make it at home?
You can use store-bought paneer to save time, but homemade paneer can be even fresher and creamier. It’s your choice.
Can I make the dough in advance and store it for later use?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s convenient for a quick meal when needed.
What can I serve with Paneer Paratha Delight?
You can serve it with yogurt, pickle, chutney, or any curry of your choice. It’s versatile and pairs well with many Indian side dishes.
How do I reheat paneer rotis?
To reheat, you can lightly heat them on a skillet or in a microwave. A quick reheat will help maintain their softness and flavor.
Can I make these rotis gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour like chickpea flour (besan) to make gluten-free paneer rotis.
How do I prevent paneer from leaking out of the roti while rolling it?
Ensure the roti is rolled out evenly, and the edges are sealed well. You can also use a little dry flour to dust while rolling to prevent sticking.
Can I add other spices or herbs to the dough for more flavor?
Absolutely! You can customize the dough by adding spices like garam masala, chopped green chilies, or fresh coriander leaves for additional flavor.
Are there variations of Paneer Paratha Delight I can try?
Yes, you can experiment with different fillings, such as adding sautéed vegetables or using different types of cheese for a unique twist.
Can I make a larger batch and freeze the rotis?
Yes, you can make a larger batch, cook the rotis partially, and then freeze them. Reheat when needed for a quick meal.
Can I substitute whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour?
While whole wheat flour is traditionally used for its nutritional benefits, you can use all-purpose flour if you prefer. The texture and flavor may vary slightly.
How do I make sure my paneer rotis are soft and not too dry?
To keep the rotis soft, ensure you don’t overcook them. Cook them until you see brown spots on both sides, and avoid overcooking, which can lead to dryness.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by using plant-based ingredients. Substitute paneer with crumbled tofu and use vegetable oil or vegan butter for cooking.
