Introduction

 

 

A delicious Paneer Biryani Recipe combines the aromatic spices of traditional biryani with the creamy richness of paneer. Paneer biryani delivers great flavor and texture as a restaurant-friendly dish, easily prepared at home. 

 

But What is paneer biryani made of?  and is it a healthy choice for your diet? Let’s explore the ingredients, steps to make it, and answer some common questions like "Will paneer increase weight?" and "What is the secret ingredient for biryani?"

 

 

What Is Paneer Biryani Made Of?

 

This paneer biryani recipe is prepared with paneer, which is Indian cottage cheese, basmati rice, and a rich selection of spices, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and saffron. Layers of marinated paneer, cooked rice, fried onions, and fresh herbs are all brought together through the slow-cooking technique called "dum." And here's what you need for the recipe of paneer biryani.

 

 

Ingredients for Paneer Biryani Recipe

 

Ingredients

Quantity

 

Basmati rice

1.5 cups

 

Paneer (cubed)

200 grams

 

Yogurt (curd)

1/2 cup

 

Fried onions

1 cup

 

Ginger-garlic paste

1 tbsp

 

Green chilies (slit)

2-3

 

Turmeric powder

1/2 tsp

 

Red chili powder

1 tsp

 

Garam masala

1 tsp

 

Coriander powder

1 tsp

 

Saffron strands soaked in milk

1 tbsp

 

Fresh mint leaves

1/4 cup

 

Fresh coriander leaves

1/4 cup

 

Ghee or oil

3 tbsp

 

Salt

To taste

 

How to Make Paneer Biryani at Home

 

Preparing the perfect paneer biryani recipe is a bit of a process, but the results are certainly worth the efforts. Here's an easy guide on how to make paneer biryani:

 

 

Preparation of Paneer Biryani Recipe: 

 

Step 1: Marinate the Paneer

 

• Mix very well in a bowl: cubed paneer, yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, salt, and mix very well so that the paneer cubes are coated evenly with the spices.

   

• Marinate the paneer for at least 20-30 minutes so that it absorbs all the flavors very well.

   

Step 2: Cook the Rice

 

• Rinse the basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak for 30 minutes.

   

• Boil water in a large pot, with a pinch of salt. Add the soaked rice and cook it to 70-80%, it must still have a faint bite.

   

• Drain the water and set the rice aside.

   

Step 3: Paneer Masala Preparation

 

• Heat the ghee or oil in a pan. Add the marinated paneer to it and cook the paneer till golden brown on both sides.

   

• Add the green chilies and cook it for 2-3 minutes.

   

• Add the garam masala, mix it well and add salt to taste.

   

Step 4: Layer the Biryani

 

• In a heavy-bottomed pot, start layering the biryani. Begin with a layer of paneer masala, followed by a layer of partially cooked rice.

   

• Add some fried onions, mint leaves, and coriander leaves over the rice.

   

• Repeat the layers till all the rice and paneer have been used. Pour the saffron milk over the top layer to add color and fragrance.

   

Step 5: Dum cooking the Biryani

 

• Cover the pot with a close-fitting lid or seal it by aluminum foil.

   

• Cook the biryani on low heat for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This slow-cooking process is known as "dum."

   

• Turn off the heat and let it rest for 10 more minutes before you serve.

   

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

 

Gently fluff the biryani with a fork and serve piping hot with raita or a simple cucumber salad.

 

Which is Better: Veg Biryani or Paneer Biryani?

 

Veg biryani and paneer biryani are both classy in their own ways, yet again, it really depends on personal preference.

 

Veg Biryani is a traditional favorite among those who enjoy the bouquet of the vegetables, carrots, beans, and peas, cooked into the punch of aromatic spices. It’s lighter and focuses more on the flavors of the vegetables.

 

The richer one is paneer biryani because of paneer being used in the preparation process, which adds creaminess to the dish. The marinated paneer cubes soak in the flavors of spices within. This makes every bite supremely delicious.

 

While both are excellent choices, paneer biryani stands out if you’re looking for a more indulgent and protein-rich option.

 

 

What's that secret ingredient for making Biryani?

 

A good Paneer Biryani Recipe is a combination of spices and cooking technique. Here are a few constituents that raise the flavor bar for paneer biryani to the next level.

 

1. Saffron Soaked in Milk: 

    

It gives it the beautiful color to Paneer Biryani Recipe, adds the richness of aroma to the biryani, and just makes it feel more luxurious.

 

1. Fried Onions: 

    

Addingin a hint of sweetness and depth into the dish, balancing out the spices.

 

1. Whole Spices: 

    

The spice of cumin, cardamom, and bay leaves used in the rice add an authentic flavor to biryani.

 

1. Dum Cooking: 

    

This method allows the rice and paneer to absorb flavors, and thus a well-balanced dish is created.

 

 

Is Paneer Biryani Healthy?

 

Paneer Biryani recipe can be a healthy option for vegetarians looking for a protein-rich meal. Here’s why: 

 

Good Source of Protein: 

 

Paneer is a high-protein food, which in turn helps build and repair muscles. It is very effective for vegetarians.

 

Good Source of Calcium: 

 

Paneer contains a high amount of calcium, thus good bones and a healthy set of teeth.

 

Balanced Diet: 

 

When prepared with basmati rice, spices, and fresh herbs, recipe of paneer biryani forms a balanced mix of carbohydrates and fats, along with proteins.

 

However, paneer biryani calories can be higher if cooked with too much oil or ghee. To make it healthier, use minimal oil and pair it with a fresh salad or low-fat raita.

 

Does Paneer Cause Weight Gain?

 

Because paneer is very fat-rich, so it is also extremely calorie-dense, but it contains proteins, so if you have it in a restricted amount, it will be a healthy one. You won't gain weight if you are eating it at regular time with a balanced diet. 

 

However, if your goal is weight loss, keep portions in check and opt for low-fat vegetable paneer biryani.

 

Tips for the Best Paneer Biryani Recipe

 

 

• Utilise Old Basmati Rice: 

 

This type of rice does not break easily, and it is fluffy when it gets cooked. The best rice for biryani.

 

• Marinate Paneer: 

   

The process of marination helps the paneer to soak the spices, thereby resulting in super tasty bites.

 

• Cook Rice: 

   

Make sure the rice is only 70-80% cooked before layering to avoid a mushy texture.

 

 

Variations of Paneer Biryani

 

1. Paneer Dum Biryani Recipe: 

    

This one is slow cooked with the method of using the technique of dum or sealing the dough on the pot for a more intense flavour

 

1. Paneer Vegetable Biryani: 

    

          Add a mixture of veggies like carrots, peas, bell peppers and paneer for a    colourful and nutritious dish.

 

 

FAQ’s

 

1. Which is better: veg biryani or paneer biryani?

    

It all depends on personal preference. Veg biryani is lighter, and it has mixed vegetables. Biryani made with paneer is rich with the creamy texture of paneer. Both are delicious and provide different experiences while tasting them.

 

1. What is the secret ingredient for biryani?

    

However, in this panee biryani recipe, the usual saffron soaked in milk was used. It was added as a secret ingredient that brings the richness and colour to the biryani. When it's used with whole spices and fried onions in just the right balance, it really brings the biryani out in its true flavours.

 

1. Is paneer biryani healthy?

    

Yes, the paneer biryani recipe can be healthier if the right ingredients go into making it. Paneer happens to be a good source of protein and calcium. So, it, along with rice and spices, serves as a well-balanced diet.

 

1. Will paneer make me gain weight?

    

Paneer contains more protein and good cholesterol, which contributes to building muscles, but consuming massive amounts of it leads to weight gain since it is calorie rich. Thus, paneer should be consumed in limited quantities as a complement to any well-balanced diet.

 

 

Final Say

 

Making paneer biryani recipe at home is a rewarding experience that brings together the best of Indian flavours in one hearty dish. The layers of fragrant rice along with spiced paneer and fresh herbs in this paneer biryani are sure to steal the show at your dinner table. 

Whether you're hosting a gathering or just feeling the need for some comfort, this is a versatile dish that offers tastes as well as nutrients. So give it a try and treat yourself to a delightful Paneer Biryani Recipe!

 

 

About Charcoal Eats

 

Savour the mouthwatering flavours of our authentic paneer biryani recipe, which is made using only the best ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Your best place in Mumbai, Pune, and Delhi for amazing food experiences online is Charcoal Eats.

 

Order it now to experience the delicious taste of heaven, renowned for its aromatic spices, layered rice, and perfectly cooked vegetables.