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Special Achari Paneer

Learn how to make Special Achari Paneer – a flavorful North Indian dish made with paneer cooked in tangy pickle spices. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or festive occasions. Easy, quick, and utterly delicious!
What is Achari Paneer?
Achari Paneer is a rich, spicy Indian dish that gets its bold flavor from a blend of traditional achar (pickle) spices. This special paneer curry brings together the creaminess of paneer with the tanginess of mustard seeds, fennel, and nigella, resulting in a lip-smacking treat for your taste buds. It pairs wonderfully with naan, paratha, or jeera rice.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a festive meal, or just want something indulgent for lunch, Special Achari Paneer is your perfect pick!
Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: Special Achari Paneer Recipe
Servings: 4
Cost: 100

Ingredients

  • 250 g paneer cubed
  • 2 tbsp mustard oil for authentic flavor
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 1 tomato pureed
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tsp fennel seeds saunf
  • 1 tsp nigella seeds kalonji
  • 1/2 tsp mustard seeds rai
  • 1/2 tsp fenugreek seeds methi dana
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 2 tbsp curd whisked
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions

How to Make Special Achari Paneer – Step-by-Step

    Step 1: Prepare the Achari Masala

    • Heat mustard oil until it starts smoking. Reduce the flame and add mustard seeds, fennel, nigella seeds, and fenugreek. Let them crackle.

    Step 2: Sauté the Base

    • Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1–2 minutes.

    Step 3: Add Tomato and Spices

    • Mix in the tomato puree, turmeric, red chili, and salt. Cook until the oil separates.

    Step 4: Add Curd and Paneer

    • Lower the flame and add whisked curd gradually, stirring continuously. Add paneer cubes and cook gently for 5–7 minutes.

    Step 5: Final Touch

    • Sprinkle garam masala and garnish with fresh coriander. Serve hot with naan or paratha.

    Chef’s Tips for the Perfect Achari Paneer

    • Always use mustard oil for the signature achar flavor.
    • For extra richness, marinate paneer in curd and achar masala for 15 minutes before cooking.
    • Add a teaspoon of your favorite mixed vegetable pickle oil for an extra punch.

    What to Serve with Achari Paneer?

    • Achari Paneer goes best with:
    • Butter Naan
    • Garlic Paratha
    • Jeera Rice
    • Laccha Paratha
    • Plain Basmati Rice

    Nutritional Benefits

    • Paneer is a rich source of protein and calcium, making this dish nutritious as well as delicious. Using yogurt in the gravy adds probiotics, aiding digestion.
    • Variations You Can Try
    • Achari Paneer Tikka: Grill marinated paneer with capsicum and onions for a smoky starter.
    • Achari Paneer Wraps: Roll it in rotis for quick lunch boxes or snacks.
    • Vegan Achari Tofu: Substitute paneer with tofu for a vegan-friendly version.

    Final Thoughts

    • Special Achari Paneer is not just another paneer recipe. It’s a bold, tangy, and spicy dish that brings the essence of Indian pickles to your plate. Try it once and you’ll be hooked!
    • Make this flavorful curry today and elevate your meal with the punch of desi achar!

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    • Authentic North Indian flavor
    • High in protein, perfect for vegetarians
    • Quick 30-minute preparation
    • Perfect for both lunch and dinner
    • Great for tiffin or meal-prep