Bengali Mustard Paneer Bhapa Recipe

About this recipe

Bengali Mustard Paneer Bhapa is a traditional dish from Bengal that combines soft cubes of paneer with a flavorful mustard and yogurt-based marinade, steamed to perfection for a healthy, aromatic breakfast. The dish strikes a perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and creamy flavors, making it ideal for a family meal. Mustard seeds, mustard oil, and green chilies add a characteristic punch, while the yogurt ensures a velvety texture. This recipe is moderately spiced to suit a medium spice level and portioned to align with a sedentary lifestyle, offering a wholesome experience in every bite.

Ingredients

• 200 g Paneer
• 100 g Yellow Mustard Seeds
• 200 ml Mustard Oil
• medium Chilli Green Long
• 200 g Dahi
• 500 g Sugar
• - Grated Coconut
• 100 g Coriander Leaves
• 100 g Red Chili Powder
• 100 g Salt
• 20 g Turmeric Powder

Instructions

1. 1. Grind the mustard seeds with 2 green chilies and a little salt to form a smooth paste. Add water as needed.
2. 2. In a mixing bowl, combine the mustard paste, yogurt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, sugar, and salt. Mix well to create a marinade.
3. 3. Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and gently coat them. Let it rest for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. 4. If using a banana leaf, lightly toast it over a flame to make it pliable. Place the marinated paneer on the leaf and fold it into a parcel. Alternatively, use a heatproof dish for steaming.
5. 5. Steam the paneer parcel or dish in a steamer for 15-20 minutes until the paneer is tender and infused with the marinade.
6. 6. Heat mustard oil in a small pan and drizzle it over the steamed paneer before serving. Garnish with grated coconut and chopped coriander leaves.
7. 7. Serve hot with steamed rice or as a standalone dish for breakfast.