Achari Paneer Pulao Recipe: To Make Lunch-Dinner Special, Try Achari Paneer Pulao, Everyone Will Praise It

If you’re looking for a flavorful and unique dish to elevate your lunch or dinner, the Achari Paneer Pulao is a must-try! This aromatic rice dish combines the goodness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with the tangy, spicy kick of pickle (achari) flavors, creating an irresistible meal that will have everyone at the table praising your culinary skills. The combination of fragrant basmati rice, marinated paneer, and a blend of spices gives this dish a distinctive taste that is both comforting and exciting.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to prepare this flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

• For the Rice:
  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2-3 cloves
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1-2 green cardamoms
  • Salt to taste
• For the Achari Paneer Marinade:
  • 200 grams paneer, cut into cubes
  • 1 tablespoon mustard oil (for that authentic pickle flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tablespoon mixed pickle (use a tangy variety like mango or lemon pickle)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
  • Salt to taste
• For the Tempering:
  • 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
  • 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1-2 dried red chilies
  • 1 onion, finely sliced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tomato, finely chopped
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Rice

1. Rinse the Rice: Wash the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps in getting fluffy rice.
2. Cook the Rice: In a large pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the bay leaf, cloves, cinnamon stick, cardamom, and a pinch of salt. Add the washed rice and cook until the rice is tender and cooked through. Drain any excess water and set aside.

Step 2: Marinating the Paneer

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the paneer cubes with mustard oil, ginger-garlic paste, pickle, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Coat the paneer well with the marinade and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the flavors penetrate the paneer.

Step 3: Making the Achari Paneer Pulao

1. Temper the Spices: Heat ghee or oil in a large pan. Add the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and dried red chilies. Sauté for a minute until the spices splutter.
2. Cook the Aromatics: Add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Then, add the ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and become pulpy.
4. Cook the Marinated Paneer: Add the marinated paneer cubes to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the paneer is lightly browned on all sides.
5. Combine with Rice: Gently add the cooked rice to the pan with the paneer. Mix everything together carefully, ensuring the rice and paneer are evenly combined without breaking the rice.
6. Final Cooking: Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Once done, garnish the Achari Paneer Pulao with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.
2. Serve: Serve hot with raita, pickle, or a side of fresh salad.

Tips for a Perfect Achari Paneer Pulao:

• Pickle Selection: The type of pickle you use greatly influences the flavor. Use a tangy and spicy variety of pickle for an authentic taste.
• Paneer Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of paneer, you can substitute it with tofu or even chicken for a non-vegetarian option.
• Adjust Spice Level: You can adjust the spice levels by increasing or reducing the amount of red chili powder and pickle used in the marinade.

Why You Should Try Achari Paneer Pulao:

• Unique Flavor: The combination of pickle and paneer gives this dish a tangy and spicy kick that is unlike any traditional pulao.
• Quick and Easy: While the dish may sound exotic, it’s quite easy to prepare and doesn’t require any special skills.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a family lunch or a dinner party, this flavorful dish will surely impress your guests and become a new favorite!

Achari Paneer Pulao is a perfect way to make your everyday meals feel like a special occasion. With its delightful flavors and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy this unique dish and let the praises flow!