Bushra Griffith
Indian bread, known as *paneer paratha*, is a delicious and hearty flatbread stuffed with a savory filling of cottage cheese (paneer), spices, and herbs. This popular dish combines the softness of whole wheat dough with the richness of crumbled paneer, seasoned with cumin, coriander, and green chilies for a burst of flavor. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, paneer paratha is best served with yogurt, pickle, or a side of curry. Making it involves preparing the dough, mixing the paneer filling, and skillfully stuffing and rolling the bread before cooking it on a griddle with ghee or butter for a golden, flaky texture. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that showcases the versatility of Indian cuisine.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dish Name | Indian Bread with Cottage Cheese (Paneer Paratha) |
| Main Ingredients | Whole Wheat Flour, Cottage Cheese (Paneer), Ghee/Oil, Salt, Water |
| Preparation Time | 30-40 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10-15 minutes per paratha |
| Servings | 4-6 parathas |
| Calories (per paratha) | ~250-300 kcal |
| Key Steps | 1. Prepare dough with flour, salt, and water. 2. Crumble cottage cheese and mix with spices (optional). 3. Stuff the cheese mixture into rolled dough circles. 4. Cook on a hot griddle with ghee/oil until golden brown. |
| Spice Options | Cumin, Coriander, Red Chili Powder, Garam Masala, Green Chilies |
| Serving Suggestions | Yogurt, Pickle, Butter, or Curry |
| Storage | Best served fresh; can be refrigerated for 1-2 days |
| Reheating | On a griddle or in a microwave |
| Variations | Aloo Paratha (Potato), Methi Paratha (Fenugreek), Gobi Paratha (Cauliflower) |
| Dietary Notes | Vegetarian, Can be made vegan with plant-based cheese and oil |
| Texture | Soft, Flaky, and Layered |
| Flavor Profile | Savory, Mildly Spiced, Rich |
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What You'll Learn
- Gather Ingredients: Flour, cottage cheese, yogurt, oil, salt, baking powder, water, and spices
- Prepare Dough: Mix flour, salt, oil, and water to form a soft, elastic dough
- Stuffing: Blend cottage cheese with spices, green chilies, and coriander for the filling
- Assemble: Roll dough, add stuffing, seal edges, and shape into flatbreads
- Cook: Heat a pan, cook bread until golden, and serve hot with butter
Gather Ingredients: Flour, cottage cheese, yogurt, oil, salt, baking powder, water, and spices
To begin making Indian bread with cottage cheese, you’ll need to gather all the essential ingredients. Start with flour, which serves as the base of your bread. Opt for whole wheat flour (atta) for an authentic Indian flavor and texture, though all-purpose flour can also be used. Measure out the required quantity, typically 2-3 cups, depending on how many servings you plan to make. Ensure the flour is fresh and free from lumps for a smooth dough. Next, you’ll need cottage cheese, the star ingredient. Choose fresh, unsalted cottage cheese (paneer or store-bought) and crumble it slightly to mix evenly into the dough. If using store-bought, drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy mixture.
Moving on, yogurt is another key ingredient that adds moisture and tanginess to the bread. Use plain, unsweetened yogurt, preferably full-fat for richness. About 1/2 cup should suffice, but adjust based on the dough’s consistency. Oil is essential for binding and softening the dough. Neutral-flavored oils like vegetable or sunflower work best. You’ll need a few tablespoons for kneading and brushing the bread. Don’t skip salt, as it enhances the overall flavor. Add it sparingly, as cottage cheese may already contain some salt. A teaspoon should be enough, but taste as you go.
For leavening, baking powder is crucial to make the bread light and fluffy. A teaspoon is usually sufficient, but ensure it’s active by checking the expiration date. Water is needed to bring the dough together. Use it sparingly, adding a little at a time, as the yogurt and cottage cheese already contribute moisture. Lukewarm water works best for kneading. Lastly, gather your spices to infuse the bread with Indian flavors. Common choices include cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Adjust the quantities based on your spice preference, but a teaspoon of each should provide a balanced flavor profile.
Once you’ve gathered all these ingredients, organize them on your workspace for easy access. Having everything measured and ready will streamline the cooking process. Ensure your cottage cheese is crumbled, yogurt is at room temperature, and spices are pre-mixed if using multiple types. This preparation step is vital for a seamless cooking experience, especially when working with dough that requires quick handling. With all ingredients in place, you’re now ready to move on to mixing and kneading the dough for your Indian bread with cottage cheese.
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Prepare Dough: Mix flour, salt, oil, and water to form a soft, elastic dough
To begin preparing the dough for your Indian bread with cottage cheese, start by gathering your ingredients: flour, salt, oil, and water. The type of flour typically used for Indian bread is whole wheat flour, known as atta, which gives the bread its characteristic texture and flavor. Measure out 2 cups of atta and place it in a large mixing bowl. Add a pinch of salt to the flour, which enhances the flavor and helps in gluten development. The salt should be mixed thoroughly with the flour to ensure even distribution.
Next, add 2 tablespoons of oil to the flour mixture. The oil can be any neutral-flavored oil like vegetable or canola oil, or even ghee for a richer taste. The oil serves multiple purposes: it adds moisture to the dough, makes it easier to roll out, and contributes to the softness of the final product. Use your fingers to mix the oil into the flour, ensuring that every grain of flour is coated. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture in your Indian bread.
Now, it’s time to add water to the mixture. Start by adding ½ cup of water and mix it into the flour using your hands. Gradually add more water, a little at a time, until the dough comes together. The goal is to form a soft, elastic dough that is neither too sticky nor too dry. The amount of water needed can vary depending on the humidity and the type of flour, so add it slowly and carefully. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, pressing and folding it repeatedly to develop the gluten, which gives the bread its elasticity.
As you knead, the dough should become smoother and more pliable. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour onto your hands or the surface, but avoid adding too much extra flour, as it can make the bread dense. If the dough feels too dry and cracks, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it reaches the right consistency. The ideal dough should be soft, slightly tacky, and spring back when pressed gently.
Once the dough is ready, shape it into a ball and place it back into the mixing bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to prevent the dough from drying out. Let the dough rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax and makes the dough easier to roll out later. While the dough rests, you can prepare the cottage cheese filling or any other ingredients needed for your Indian bread recipe.
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Stuffing: Blend cottage cheese with spices, green chilies, and coriander for the filling
To create a flavorful stuffing for your Indian bread with cottage cheese, begin by preparing the key ingredients. Start with fresh cottage cheese, also known as paneer, which serves as the base of your filling. Ensure the paneer is crumbled or grated to achieve a smooth texture when blended. Next, gather your spices—commonly used ones include cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric, and garam masala. These spices not only add depth but also infuse the stuffing with authentic Indian flavors. Fresh green chilies are essential for a mild to moderate heat, depending on your preference; adjust the quantity to suit your taste. Finally, fresh coriander leaves (cilantro) will bring a burst of freshness and color to the mixture.
Once your ingredients are ready, combine them in a mixing bowl. Start by adding the crumbled cottage cheese, followed by a pinch of turmeric for color and its subtle earthy flavor. Incorporate the cumin and coriander powders, which provide a warm, nutty undertone. Add the finely chopped green chilies, ensuring they are evenly distributed to balance the heat throughout the stuffing. Sprinkle in the garam masala for a complex, aromatic finish. Mix these ingredients gently with a spoon or your hands, taking care not to overwork the cottage cheese, as it can become too soft.
Now, it’s time to blend the mixture for a cohesive filling. Transfer the spiced cottage cheese to a blender or food processor, adding a handful of freshly chopped coriander leaves for a bright, herbal note. Pulse the mixture until it reaches a semi-smooth consistency—you want it to hold together but still retain some texture. Avoid over-blending, as it can make the stuffing too pasty. If the mixture feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water or a drizzle of oil to help it come together without compromising its form.
After blending, taste the stuffing and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, spices, or green chilies to enhance the flavor profile. The stuffing should be well-balanced, with the creaminess of the cottage cheese complementing the warmth of the spices and the freshness of the coriander and chilies. Once satisfied, transfer the stuffing to a bowl and set it aside while you prepare the dough for the Indian bread.
This cottage cheese stuffing is versatile and can be used in various Indian breads like parathas, kulchas, or stuffed naan. Its rich, spiced filling pairs beautifully with the softness of the bread, making it a satisfying and flavorful dish. Remember, the key to a great stuffing lies in the harmony of flavors and textures, so take your time to blend and season it to perfection.
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Assemble: Roll dough, add stuffing, seal edges, and shape into flatbreads
To begin the assembly process of your Indian bread with cottage cheese, start by preparing your dough and stuffing. Ensure the dough is well-kneaded and rested, making it pliable and easy to roll. Divide the dough into equal-sized balls, roughly the size of a golf ball, to ensure consistent flatbreads. On a lightly floured surface, take one dough ball and flatten it slightly with your hands. Using a rolling pin, gently roll the dough into a circular shape, approximately 4-5 inches in diameter. The key is to maintain an even thickness, neither too thin nor too thick, to allow for proper cooking and stuffing enclosure.
Once the dough is rolled out, it’s time to add the cottage cheese stuffing. Place a heaped tablespoon of the prepared cottage cheese mixture in the center of the rolled dough. Be careful not to overstuff, as it may cause the flatbread to tear or the filling to leak during cooking. Gently press the stuffing down slightly to flatten it, ensuring it spreads evenly but remains contained within the center. The stuffing should be compact enough to hold its shape but not so dense that it becomes difficult to seal the edges.
Next, carefully seal the edges of the dough to encase the stuffing. Fold the edges of the dough over the stuffing, pleating and pressing them together to create a sealed parcel. Ensure there are no gaps or openings, as this could cause the stuffing to ooze out during cooking. You can use a little water on your fingertips to help the edges stick together if needed. Once sealed, gently flatten the stuffed parcel with your hands, reshaping it into a flat, round disc.
Now, it’s time to shape the stuffed parcel into a flatbread. Place the sealed dough back on the floured surface and gently roll it out again, this time into a larger, thinner circle, about 6-7 inches in diameter. Apply even pressure with the rolling pin, ensuring the stuffing remains evenly distributed and doesn’t tear through the dough. If the stuffing starts to peek through, carefully patch the dough by pressing it back together or adding a small piece of dough to cover the area.
Finally, examine the shaped flatbread to ensure it is uniform and ready for cooking. The edges should be smooth, and the stuffing should be completely enclosed. Repeat the rolling, stuffing, sealing, and shaping process for the remaining dough balls. Once all flatbreads are assembled, they are ready to be cooked on a hot griddle or skillet until golden brown and cooked through. This meticulous assembly ensures each flatbread is perfectly stuffed, sealed, and shaped for a delicious Indian bread experience.
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Cook: Heat a pan, cook bread until golden, and serve hot with butter
To begin the cooking process, heat a non-stick pan or a traditional Indian tawa over medium heat. Ensure the pan is evenly heated before placing the prepared cottage cheese-stuffed bread (also known as paneer paratha) on it. The key to achieving a perfectly cooked paratha is maintaining the right temperature – not too high to avoid burning, yet hot enough to cook the bread thoroughly. Gently place the rolled-out paratha on the pan and let it cook for about 30-40 seconds on the first side. You'll notice the edges starting to dry out slightly, indicating it's time to flip.
As you flip the paratha, you can add a small amount of oil or ghee (clarified butter) around the edges and on top. This step is crucial for achieving that desirable golden-brown color and crispy texture. Press the paratha gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking and to help the layers separate, making the bread flaky and light. Cook the second side for another 30-40 seconds, or until you see golden-brown spots appearing. The aroma of the cooking bread will become more pronounced, signaling that your paneer paratha is almost ready.
The final stage of cooking involves getting that perfect golden hue on both sides. Keep a close eye on the paratha to avoid overcooking or burning. If needed, adjust the heat to maintain a steady cooking temperature. Once both sides are golden, your paneer paratha is cooked to perfection. The cottage cheese filling should be warm and slightly melted, creating a delightful contrast with the crispy exterior.
Now, it's time to serve this delicious Indian bread. Place the hot paratha on a plate and add a small dollop of butter on top. The butter will melt, adding a rich, creamy flavor to the already mouth-watering dish. You can also offer extra butter on the side for those who prefer a more indulgent experience. The combination of the crispy, flaky bread, warm cottage cheese, and melted butter creates a truly authentic and satisfying Indian culinary delight.
Serving the paneer paratha hot is essential to fully appreciate its texture and flavor. Accompany it with a side of yogurt, pickle, or a simple salad for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even a snack, and its versatility allows for various fillings and toppings to suit different tastes. With its golden, buttery exterior and soft, cheesy interior, this Indian bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Frequently asked questions
The main ingredient for the bread is whole wheat flour (atta), while cottage cheese (paneer) is used as the stuffing.
Crumble or grate paneer (cottage cheese), mix it with spices like cumin, coriander, chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Add chopped onions, green chilies, and coriander leaves for extra flavor.
Roll out a small ball of whole wheat dough, stuff it with the paneer mixture, seal it, and flatten it into a flatbread. Cook it on a hot tawa or griddle, brushing with ghee or butter until both sides are golden and cooked through.
