Give your paneer bhurji a South Indian twist with podi; this recipe is winning the internet

Paneer gets a spicy South Indian makeover with the magic of podi, This fusion twist is bold, flavourful, and already winning hearts across the internet.(Image: Instagram)

Paneer Bhurji is widely enjoyed in many Indian households for its tangy taste and rich texture. It is not just healthy and delicious but also easy to make. While the standard recipe remains the same, it’s always a good idea to experiment once in a while for a fresh twist. Digital creator Parichay did just that by adding South Indian podi, and now his cultural crossover experiment is winning the internet.

Taking to his Instagram account, Parichay explained what podi is and how it enhances the flavour of dishes that you make. He said, “Podi: If you are not South Indian, chances are you have heard the word but never really understood it. It’s not a single recipe. Podi literally means powder. But in South India, it refers to a whole family of spice blends: dry-roasted, hand-pounded, rich with lentils, chillies, curry leaves, sesame seeds, and even garlic sometimes.

Also read: Fusion with global flavours on the rise among home cooks and Gen Z diners

He further explained, “Every home has its own version: Milagai podi for idlis, Karuveppilai podi with curry leaves, Paruppu podi with toor dal. No two taste the same, but all of them have this punch — earthy, nutty, smoky, spicy, and zero preservatives.”

Explaining its benefits, the food influencer said that the recipe packs a punch when it comes to nutritional value and is best for those who want to meet their daily protein goals. He shared the ingredients and recipe in the comments on his Instagram handle, which goes by the name @bhukkadintown.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Parichay | Indian Recipe Creator (@bhukkadintown)

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Ingredients

• 2 tbsp ghee

• 1 tsp mustard seeds

• 2 dried red chillies

• 8–10 curry leaves

• 3–4 garlic cloves, chopped

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 1 tomato, chopped

• ¼ tsp haldi

• ½ tsp red chilli powder

• 200g paneer, grated

• 1–1.5 tbsp podi masala

• 2 tbsp fresh grated coconut or 2 tbsp coconut milk

• Salt to taste

• Fresh coriander for garnish

Also read: Indonesian flavours in India: A new trend in fine dining

Method

1. Heat ghee in a pan, add mustard seeds, red chillies & curry leaves.

2. Add garlic, sauté till fragrant, then add onions.

3. Once onions are soft, add tomatoes & cook till they break down.

4. Add haldi, red chilli powder & salt. Mix well.

5. Add grated paneer & podi masala, toss to coat.

6. Add grated coconut or coconut milk & mix.

7. Garnish with coriander & serve hot with dosa, roti, or pav.

Internet reacts

Many internet users found the recipe refreshingly different. One wrote, “Loved the addition of coconut milk to the recipe, it must take it to a whole new level.” Another said, “Love the combination.” A third commented, “Love podi and love paneer. A dish that can’t go wrong.” A user also suggested, “Sprinkle podi on fried potatoes and you will love it ...I am a huge podi fan, I use it everyday.”