A growing child requires a lot of calcium and with children who refuse to drink milk, which is a very good source of calcium, cottage cheese becomes a good substitute. Palak- paneer is a very common North –Indian dish and to fortify the vitamin needs of a child, I have tried out this combination. The carrot is lightly steamed, retaining the vitamin A in it; and at the same time doing away with the raw taste. Pepper or chopped green chillies could be used depending on the age of the child.
A tip for a quick-fix snack, which I prepared for breakfast, has been shared at the end of the preparation instructions.
Ingredients:
- 1 Onion finely chopped.
- 250-300 gm paneer/cottage cheese – cubed/diced
- 2 tomatoes – chopped
- Salt to taste
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- ½ tsp red chilli powder(For spice can also use green chillies or pepper corns)
- 250 gm grated carrot.
- Few coriander leaves and dry fruits(optional) for the garnish
- Oil for seasoning.
Method:
- Heat a little oil in a pan. Add onion and sauté till brown.
- Add tomato, salt, turmeric powder and red chilli powder. Stir fry till the tomato cooks.
- Add paneer(cottage cheese) and heat for few minutes till cooked.
- Add the grated carrot, cover with a lid and put off the flame.(Let it cook in the available steam)
- Garnish with coriander leaves and dry fruits.
- Serve as an accompaniment with rotis or rice.
Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
Serves: 6
Chef’s Tip:
- This dish if enough on hand can be used for your quick-fix breakfast or light dinner.
Method:
- Over two slices of brown bread(healthier than white bread) apply a little butter and then on one slice put the cottage cheese ‘n grated carrot as a filling and cover with the other slice.
- Now in an electric toaster or can use the toaster, which can be placed over the gas stove, toast the sandwich till just brown and crispy. Ensure not to burn it.
- Serve hot with tomato ketchup or any sauce.
Preparation Time: 5-10 minutes
