From Snacks to Main Courses: Versatile Recipes with Highland Farms' Paneer

From Snacks to Main Courses: Versatile Recipes with Highland Farms' Paneer

Paneer is a most loved ingredient in Indian kitchens, adored for its ability to blend seamlessly into everything from quick snacks to elaborate main dishes.

Here at Highland Farms, we take pride in our A2 paneer, notable for its superb freshness and crafted from premium A2 milk. This paneer not only provides improved nutritional advantages but also promises easier digestion. 

Despite its widespread appeal, many home cooks encounter issues with paneer, like it crumbling when cooked or not browning properly. 

This blog seeks to tackle these common challenges by offering a range of fail-safe recipes that highlight the best of Highland Farms' A2 paneer. Whether you’re rustling up a swift bite or an intricate family meal, these recipes will steer you to flawless results every single time.

The Benefits of A2 Paneer

Paneer isn't only a tasty meal, it’s chock-full of health perks, especially when it's A2 milk paneer from Highland Farms. A2 paneer is winning hearts in kitchens all over India, thanks to its high quality and health benefits.

First off, A2 paneer is crafted from A2 milk, which is rich in a type of beta-casein protein that's easier on the stomach compared to the more common A1 protein found in regular milk. This makes it a top pick for those with a sensitive stomach or anyone looking for dairy that's easy to digest.

Here are the top benefits of including Highland Farms' A2 milk paneer in your diet:

  1. Easier Digestion: Ideal for those who struggle with regular milk, reducing discomfort.
  2. Rich in Calcium: Essential for strong bones and teeth, making it super for kids and adults alike.
  3. High Protein Content: Offers a hefty dose of protein, perfect for vegetarians needing a protein boost.
  4. Soft Texture: Maintains a lush, soft texture that's versatile for various dishes, absorbing flavors well.
  5. Freshness Guaranteed: Our paneer comes with a promise of freshness, enhancing both taste and nutritional value.
  6. Energy Boost: Provides sustained energy, ideal for a busy day.

So, if you’re planning a simple snack or a grand dinner, adding Highland Farms' A2 paneer not only spices up the dish but also packs it with wholesome goodness.

Why Choose Highland Farms' A2 Paneer?

Choosing the right paneer can really lift your dishes from just okay to superb. Highland Farms' A2 milk paneer is a standout choice for many yummy reasons:

  1. Made from A2 Milk: Our paneer is made from A2 milk, known for being richer and creamier than the usual kind. This means our paneer not only tastes lovely but also adds a wonderful texture to your dishes.
  2. Gentle on the Stomach: Regular milk can sometimes be hard to digest, but our A2 paneer comes from milk that’s much easier on the tummy, making it a perfect pick for all in the family, especially those who find regular dairy tricky.
  3. Full of Goodness: Our paneer is loaded with essential nutrients like calcium and protein, crucial for strong bones and muscles.
  4. Perfect for Any Dish: Whether you're adding it to a salad, frying it for a snack, or stirring it into your curries, Highland Farms' paneer keeps its shape and soaks up flavors beautifully, ensuring your cooking is always top-notch.
  5. Freshness Guaranteed: We pride ourselves on the freshness of our paneer, delivered to you ready to boost your favorite recipes with its natural, creamy goodness.

Related: A2 Milk Paneer vs Regular Paneer: Which is Better for You?

Quick and Easy Snack Recipes

Who doesn't love a quick nibble, especially when it's made with Highland Farms' A2 milk paneer? Paneer snacks are a hit in any Indian home because they're just so tasty and simple to make. Here are some detailed recipes for India's favorite snacks that are quick to prepare and delicious to eat.

1. Paneer Pakora

A monsoon favorite all over India, paneer pakora is made by dipping slices of Highland Farms' A2 paneer into a spicy besan (gram flour) batter and frying them till they're golden and crispy. Perfect for enjoying with a steaming cup of chai as you watch the rain.

Ingredients For Paneer Pakora:

  • 200 grams Highland Farms' A2 paneer, sliced
  • 1 cup gram flour (besan)
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp ajwain (carom seeds)
  • Salt to taste
  • Water as needed
  • Oil for frying

Method Of Paneer Pakora:

  • Mix gram flour, chili powder, turmeric, ajwain, and salt. Add water gradually to make a smooth batter.
  • Heat oil in a deep pan.
  • Dip each paneer slice into the batter, ensuring it's well coated.
  • Fry in hot oil until golden and crisp.
  • Serve hot with mint chutney or ketchup.

2. Paneer Tikka

Chunks of A2 paneer marinated in dahi (yogurt) and spices, then grilled till they're just right. Paneer tikka is brilliant for small parties or as a delicious snack during your favorite TV show.

Ingredients For Paneer Tikka:

  • 250 grams Highland Farms' A2 paneer, cut into cubes
  • 1/2 cup yogurt
  • 2 tsp Kashmiri chili powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt to taste
  • Oil for brushing

Method Of Paneer Tikka:

  • In a bowl, mix yogurt, chili powder, garam masala, cumin powder, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and salt.
  • Add paneer cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Thread the marinated paneer on skewers.
  • Grill or cook on a pan with a little oil until charred and cooked through.
  • Serve hot with mint yogurt chutney.

Related: Why Fresh Labneh Cheese Is Your Best Friend?

3. Paneer Bhurji

A quick and spicy dish, this is made by sautéing crumbled paneer with onions, tomatoes, and a mix of masalas. It's an excellent choice for a quick meal and goes well with rotis or as a filling for sandwiches, especially when you're in a rush.

Ingredients For Paneer Bhurji:

  • 200 grams Highland Farms' A2 paneer, crumbled
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 green chili, chopped
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Method of Paneer Bhurji:

  • Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
  • Add onions and green chili, sauté until onions are golden.
  • Add tomatoes, turmeric, and coriander powder. Cook until tomatoes are soft.
  • Add crumbled paneer and salt. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring often.
  • Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot.

4. Chili Paneer

A fantastic Indo-Chinese snack where paneer cubes are tossed in a tangy and spicy sauce. It's a hit with both the young and old and fits in perfectly at any gathering or as a side dish for dinner.

Ingredients For Chilli Paneer:

  • 200 grams Highland Farms' A2 paneer, cut into cubes
  • 2 tbsp cornflour
  • 1 onion, cut into cubes
  • 1 green bell pepper, cut into cubes
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp vinegar
  • 1 tbsp chili sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste

Method of Chilli Paneer:

  • Coat paneer cubes lightly with cornflour.
  • Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan and fry paneer until golden. Set aside.
  • In the same pan, add the remaining oil, garlic, green chilies, onion, and bell pepper. Sauté for a few minutes.
  • Add soy sauce, vinegar, chili sauce, and a splash of water. Bring to a simmer.
  • Add fried paneer and toss everything together. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
  • Serve hot.

5. Paneer Roll

For those always on the move, wrap spiced paneer slices with some fresh veggies in a roti or paratha. It makes a tasty, convenient snack that’s easy to carry along.

Ingredients For Paneer Roll:

  • 200 grams Highland Farms' A2 paneer, cut into cubes
  • 2 tbsp cornflour
  • 1 onion, cut into cubes
  • 1 green bell pepper, cut into cubes
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp vinegar
  • 1 tbsp chili sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste

Method of Paneer Roll:

  • Coat paneer cubes lightly with cornflour.
  • Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan and fry paneer until golden. Set aside.
  • In the same pan, add the remaining oil, garlic, green chilies, onion, and bell pepper. Sauté for a few minutes.
  • Add soy sauce, vinegar, chili sauce, and a splash of water. Bring to a simmer.
  • Add fried paneer and toss everything together. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
  • Serve hot.

Paneer Recipes for Family Dinners

Paneer is a star ingredient in Indian kitchens. Here are some delicious paneer recipes using Highland Farms' A2 paneer that will bring everyone to the dinner table with a smile.

1.   Paneer Butter Masala

This classic dish is a must-have at any family dinner. Soft Highland Farms' A2 paneer cubes simmered in a creamy, rich tomato-based sauce with a hint of butter and kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) is pure comfort food. Serve it with naan or jeera rice, and you have a meal that delights everyone, from kids to grandparents.

Ingredients For Paneer Butter Masala

  • 200 grams Highland Farms' A2 paneer, cubed
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup cream
  • 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt to taste

Method Of Paneer Butter Masala

  • Heat butter in a pan. Add tomato puree and cook till oil separates.
  • Add cream, kasuri methi, garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Simmer until the gravy thickens.
  • Add paneer cubes and cook for another 5 minutes.
  • Serve hot with naan or jeera rice.

2.   Shahi Paneer

For something a bit more lavish, try Shahi Paneer. It's made with pieces of soft paneer in a thick, creamy gravy made from tomatoes, cashews, and a mix of spices. This dish is not just tasty but also rich in flavor, perfect for special occasions or weekend family dinners.

Ingredients For Shahi Paneer

  • 200 grams Highland Farms' A2 paneer, cubed
  • 1/4 cup cashews, ground into a paste
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tbsp ghee
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste

Method Of Shahi Paneer

  • Heat ghee in a pan, add the tomato puree and cook for a few minutes.
  • Add the cashew paste, milk, sugar, garam masala, and salt. Cook until the gravy thickens.
  • Add paneer cubes and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  • Serve hot, garnished with coriander leaves.

Related: Benefits of Drinking Desi Cow Milk: Why It's a Healthier Choice

3.   Palak Paneer

Combine the goodness of spinach with Highland Farms' A2 paneer to make Palak Paneer. This dish is not only healthy but also a great way to get kids to eat their greens. The creamy spinach base paired with paneer makes a nutritious side dish that goes well with rotis or parathas.

Ingredients For Palak Paneer

  • 200 grams Highland Farms' A2 paneer, cubed
  • 2 cups spinach, blanched and pureed
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste

Method Of Palak Paneer

  • Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds, and let them splutter.
  • Add onions and ginger-garlic paste, sauté until onions are golden.
  • Add tomatoes and cook until mushy.
  • Add spinach puree, garam masala, and salt, cook for 10 minutes.
  • Add paneer cubes and cook for another 5 minutes.
  • Serve hot with rotis or parathas.

4.   Paneer Tikka Masala

If your family enjoys a bit of spice, Paneer Tikka Masala is a great choice. Marinated paneer grilled to perfection and then cooked in a spicy masala gravy offers a burst of flavors that's hard to resist. It's a hearty dish that pairs beautifully with rice or bread.

Ingredients For Paneer Tikka Masala

  • 200 grams Highland Farms' A2 paneer, cubed and marinated in yogurt and spices
  • 1 cup onion-tomato masala
  • 1/2 cup cream
  • 1 tsp kasuri methi
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt to taste

Method Of Paneer Tikka Masala

  • Grill the marinated paneer until golden.
  • In the same pan, add onion-tomato masala, cream, kasuri methi, chili powder, and salt.
  • Cook until the gravy thickens.
  • Add grilled paneer, simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Serve hot with rice or naan.

5.   Kadai Paneer

This is a vibrant dish made with paneer, bell peppers, onions, and traditional Indian spices cooked in a kadai (wok). Kadai Paneer is both colorful and flavorful, making it a perfect dish for a joyful family dinner.

Ingredients For Kadai Paneer

  • 200 grams Highland Farms' A2 paneer, cubed
  • 1 bell pepper, cubed
  • 1 onion, cubed
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tsp coriander seeds, crushed
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste

Method Of Kadai Paneer

  • Heat oil in a kadai, add crushed coriander seeds, and sauté for a minute.
  • Add onion and bell pepper, cook until slightly soft.
  • Add tomato puree, garam masala, and salt. Cook until oil separates.
  • Add paneer cubes, cook for another 5-7 minutes.
  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander.

Creative Main Courses with Paneer

Paneer is not just for starters or side dishes; it can star in the main course too! Here are some inventive main dish recipes using Highland Farms' A2 paneer that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

1. Paneer Biryani

Biryani and paneer, two of everyone's favorites, come together in this mouth-watering dish. Highland Farms' A2 paneer adds a creamy texture to the spicy and fragrant layers of rice. This paneer biryani is a great option for when you want something a bit different from your usual chicken or mutton biryani.

Ingredients for Paneer Biryani:

  • 200 grams Highland Farms' A2 paneer, cubed
  • 2 cups basmati rice, washed and soaked for 30 minutes
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup coriander leaves, finely chopped
  • 2-3 tbsp biryani masala
  • 4 tbsp cooking oil
  • 4 cups water
  • Salt to taste
  • Saffron strands (optional, for color and aroma)
  • 2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4-5 cloves
  • 2-3 green cardamom pods
  • 1 cinnamon stick

Method of Paneer Biryani:

  1. Prepare the Rice:
    • In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add bay leaves, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
    • Add the soaked and drained rice to the boiling water.
    • Cook until the rice is about 70% done. Drain and set aside.
  1. Cook the Paneer:
    • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they are golden brown.
    • Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil begins to separate.
    • Stir in the biryani masala and salt, cook for a minute until the spices are well combined.
    • Add the paneer cubes, gently mixing to ensure they are coated with the spices without breaking. Cook for about 5 minutes.
  1. Layer the Biryani:
    • In a heavy-bottomed pot or a biryani pot, smear the bottom with a tablespoon of ghee.
    • Spread half of the cooked rice as the first layer.
    • Over the rice, evenly spread the paneer mixture.
    • Sprinkle half of the chopped mint and coriander leaves.
    • Add the remaining rice as the second layer and top with the remaining mint, coriander, and saffron strands soaked in a little warm milk.
  1. Cook the Biryani:
    • Dot the top layer with ghee. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid or seal it with dough to trap the steam.
    • Cook on a very low flame for about 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
    • Once done, let the biryani rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
    • Gently fluff the rice and serve the biryani hot with raita or a side of boiled eggs, if desired.

2. Paneer Lababdar:

A rich and creamy curry, paneer lababdar is made with Highland Farms' A2 paneer cooked in a tomato and cream-based gravy. The paneer is soft and soaks up all the flavors of the masalas, making every bite a delightful experience. It’s perfect for serving with naan or paratha at dinner.

Ingredients for Paneer Lababdar:

  • 200 grams Highland Farms' A2 paneer, cubed
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup cream
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed
  • 2 tbsp oil

Method of Paneer Lababdar:

  1. Prepare the Base:
    • Heat butter and oil in a pan over medium heat.
    • Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
    • Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
    • Add tomato puree, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
  1. Cook the Paneer:
    • Add the paneer cubes to the pan and gently toss them in the base sauce to coat them evenly.
    • Pour in the cream and mix gently to combine without breaking the paneer cubes.
    • Sprinkle garam masala and kasoori methi over the curry. Let it simmer on low heat for about 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens slightly.
    • Once the gravy reaches the desired consistency, remove from heat.
    • Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
    • Serve hot with naan or jeera rice for a delicious meal.

3. Saag Paneer

A nutritious blend of greens and paneer makes this dish a healthy yet tasty choice for your main course. Saag paneer involves paneer cubes gently cooked with spinach and seasoned with mild spices. This dish is not only fulfilling but also packed with iron and protein, thanks to Highland Farms' A2 paneer.

Ingredients for Saag Paneer:

  • 200 grams Highland Farms' A2 paneer, cubed
  • 500 grams spinach, washed and chopped
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, chopped
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 tbsp cream (optional for richness)

Method of Saag Paneer:

  1. Prepare the Spinach:
    • Blanch the chopped spinach in boiling water for 2 minutes, then plunge into ice water.
    • Drain and puree the spinach in a blender to a smooth consistency.
  1. Cook the Masala:
    • Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
    • Add chopped onions and green chilies, and sauté until onions are translucent.
    • Mix in ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell fades.
    • Stir in chopped tomatoes, turmeric, and coriander powder, cooking until tomatoes are mushy.
  1. Combine and Cook:
    • Add the spinach puree and water to the masala, bringing to a simmer.
    • Add salt and let the mixture cook for about 10 minutes on medium-low heat.
    • Gently add the paneer cubes and let them simmer in the saag for another 5-7 minutes.
    • For extra richness, swirl in some cream just before removing from heat.
    • Serve the saag paneer hot with rotis or parathas. Garnish with a dollop of butter or cream if desired.

Related: 5 Amazing Health Benefits of A2 Cow Milk

4. Paneer Do Pyaza

In this popular dish, paneer and onions are used in equal quantities, hence the name 'do pyaza'. The sweetness of the onions paired with the creaminess of Highland Farms' A2 paneer makes this curry exceptionally delicious. It's a wonderful choice for a family meal and pairs well with rotis or rice.

Ingredients for Paneer Do Pyaza:

  • 200 grams Highland Farms' A2 paneer, cubed
  • 2 large onions, one finely chopped and one cut into cubes
  • 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander, chopped for garnish

Method of Paneer Do Pyaza:

  1. Cook the Onions and Spices:
    • Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds, and let them splutter.
    • Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
    • Stir in ginger-garlic paste along with green chilies, and cook until the raw smell fades away.
    • Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric, coriander, red chili powders, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes are mushy and oil separates from the masala.
  1. Add Paneer and Onion Cubes:
    • Add the paneer cubes and onion cubes to the masala, gently stirring to coat them without breaking.
    • Sprinkle garam masala over the mixture and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
    • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
    • Serve hot with rotis or naan for a hearty meal.

5. Matar Paneer

A classic North Indian dish, matar paneer pairs green peas and paneer in a tomato-based sauce. The peas add a lovely texture to the curry, while the A2 paneer from Highland Farms ensures that the dish is rich and hearty. This is a staple in many homes and is often enjoyed during the cooler months.

Ingredients for Matar Paneer:

  • 200 grams Highland Farms' A2 paneer, cubed
  • 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Water as needed
  • Fresh coriander, chopped for garnish

Method of Matar Paneer:

  1. Prepare the Base:
    • Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds and let them crackle.
    • Add chopped onions and sauté until they are golden.
    • Mix in ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
    • Stir in tomato puree, turmeric, coriander, red chili powders, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes cook down and oil begins to separate.
  2. Cook the Peas and Paneer:
    • Add the green peas to the masala and pour in enough water to just cover the peas. Bring to a boil and then simmer until the peas are tender.
    • Gently add the paneer cubes to the pan, mixing carefully to avoid breaking the paneer. Simmer for another 5 minutes so the paneer absorbs the flavors.
    • Sprinkle garam masala over the curry and stir well.
    • Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
    • Serve hot with parathas or rice, perfect for a comforting family dinner.

Wrapping It Up

We've just gone through some super recipes made with Highland Farms' A2 paneer. From quick snacks like Paneer Pakora to full meals like Paneer Biryani, we've shown how versatile paneer can be in our kitchens. A2 paneer, crafted from A2 milk, is easy on your tummy and packed with good nutrients, making every dish you cook healthier and tastier.

For those watching their weight or mindful of fat intake, our low-fat A2 paneer is a great pick. It lets you enjoy all these yummy recipes while looking after your health.

Want to try these dishes with a health-friendly twist? Head to Highland Farms to buy our low-fat A2 paneer and bring both taste and nutrition to your cooking. 

Related: Low-Fat Paneer: How It Can Assist in Weight Loss

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