Paneer Makhana Curry

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Paneer Makhana Curry Light Gravy for Vrat Break

Paneer Makhana Curry

Paneer Makhana Curry is a wholesome dish perfect for vrat break. The curry is light, nutritious, and easy to digest. Both paneer and makhana are vrat-friendly ingredients, making this recipe ideal during fasting days. It is rich in protein, calcium, and healthy fats, keeping you full and energized.

Why Choose Paneer Makhana Curry for Vrat?

Paneer Makhana Gravy is a light dish that balances health and taste. Paneer offers protein, while makhana provides antioxidants and minerals. This combination creates a healthy vrat curry that keeps you satisfied without heaviness. Unlike fried vrat snacks like Sabudana Vada, this curry is light and gentle on the stomach.

Ingredients Required for Paneer Makhana Curry

To prepare this vrat-friendly curry, you need:

  • 1 cup paneer cubes
  • 1 cup makhana (fox nuts)
  • 2 medium tomatoes (pureed)
  • 2 green chilies
  • 1 teaspoon ginger paste
  • 2 tablespoons ghee
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon rock salt (sendha namak)
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cardamom powder
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon powder
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cream
  • Fresh coriander leaves

Step-by-Step Recipe of Paneer Makhana Curry

Step 1: Roast the Makhana

Heat ghee in a pan. Add makhana and roast until crisp. Keep aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Gravy

In the same pan, add cumin seeds and ginger paste. Sauté until fragrant. Add tomato puree, green chilies, coriander powder, black pepper, and rock salt. Cook until the masala thickens.

Step 3: Add Paneer and Makhana

Add paneer cubes and roasted makhana to the gravy. Stir well so the curry coats paneer and makhana.

Step 4: Finish the Curry

Add cardamom and cinnamon powder. Pour cream and simmer for two minutes. Garnish with coriander leaves.

Your Paneer Makhana Gravy dish is ready. Serve hot with kuttu or singhare ki roti.

Health Benefits of Paneer Makhana Curry

  • Rich in protein: Paneer provides energy during fasting.
  • Boosts immunity: Makhana contains antioxidants.
  • Easy digestion: Light gravy helps break fast smoothly.
  • Balanced meal: Combination of paneer and makhana gives satiety without heaviness.
  • Vrat-friendly: Prepared with ghee, sendha namak, and vrat spices.

Paneer Makhana Curry vs Sabudana Vada

Both Paneer Makhana gravy and Sabudana Vada are popular vrat dishes. Sabudana Vada is crisp and filling but fried. Paneer Makhana Curry is lighter, creamy, and better for digestion. For vrat breaks, this curry is ideal as a main dish. Sabudana Vada can be enjoyed as a snack alongside it.

Tips for Making Perfect Paneer Makhana Curry

  1. Roast makhana well for crunch.
  2. Use fresh paneer for soft texture.
  3. Avoid excess cream to keep curry light.
  4. Add spices as per taste but stick to vrat-friendly ones.
  5. Serve immediately for best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Paneer Makhana Curry tastes best with:

  • Kuttu ki roti
  • Singhare ke parathe
  • Steamed sama rice
  • Sabudana khichdi
  • Sabudana Vada as a side dish

This combination makes vrat meals wholesome and filling.

Nutritional Value (Approximate per serving)

  1. Calories: 280 kcal
  2. Protein: 12 g
  3. Carbohydrates: 20 g
  4. Fat: 15 g
  5. Fiber: 4 g

Final Thoughts

Paneer Makhana Curry is a wholesome vrat recipe that combines taste, health, and lightness in one bowl. The creamy gravy made with paneer and roasted makhana is not only delicious but also easy on the stomach, making it perfect for vrat breaks. Pair it with kuttu roti, sama rice, or even Sabudana Vada for a complete fasting meal. If you are looking for a light, nutritious, and vrat-friendly dish, Paneer Makhana Curry is the best choice.

FAQ

No, the curry is light and easy to digest.

During vrat, only sendha namak is recommended.

You can serve kuttu roti, sama rice, or Sabudana Vada.

Yes, it is light, protein-rich, and keeps you full.

Yes, you can skip cream for a lighter version.