Discover the Flavors of India: 20 Delicious Paneer Recipes to Spice Up Your Kitchen!
When it comes to Indian cuisine, one ingredient stands out for its versatility and richness – paneer. Also known as Indian cheese, paneer is a staple in many North Indian dishes, and its creamy texture makes it a perfect base for various curries and sauces. From spicy curries to rich and creamy gravies, paneer can be used in countless ways to elevate the flavor of your meals. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering paneer recipes that will take you on a culinary journey across India. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these paneer recipes are sure to impress.
Paneer Butter Masala
A popular Indian dish that combines the richness of butter with the tanginess of tomatoes and cream, Paneer Butter Masala is a perfect accompaniment to naan or rice. This simple recipe yields a flavorful and creamy curry.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and red chili powder to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add paneer cubes and cook until they start to brown.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, salt, and red chili powder. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with naan or rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Paneer
Palak Paneer is a popular Indian dish that combines the richness of paneer (Indian cheese) with the vibrant flavors of spinach. This creamy curry is a staple in many North Indian restaurants and is often served with naan, rice, or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup paneer cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and ginger paste. Cook until the onions are translucent.
4. Add spinach leaves and cook until they wilt.
5. Add paneer cubes, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Mix well.
6. Add heavy cream and adjust the consistency with water as needed.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
8. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Tikka Masala
A classic North Indian dish, Paneer Tikka Masala is a flavorful and creamy curry made with marinated paneer (Indian cheese), cooked to perfection in a rich tomato-based sauce. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer cubes
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tsp garam masala powder
– 1 tsp cumin powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups tomato puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate paneer cubes in yogurt mixture for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill or bake the marinated paneer until golden brown.
3. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until caramelized. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add tomato puree, garam masala, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
6. Serve the grilled paneer cubes in the creamy tomato sauce, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Shahi Paneer
Experience the opulence of North Indian cuisine with this decadent shahi paneer recipe, featuring tender cheese cubes in a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 250 gm paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato puree
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a deep pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 10 seconds.
3. Add sliced onions and cook until they turn light golden brown (5-6 minutes).
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and tomato puree. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly (8-10 minutes).
6. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to coat with the sauce.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the paneer is fully coated.
8. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Paneer Bhurji
Paneer Bhurji is a popular Indian dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a snack. This scrambled paneer recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), crumbled
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter or oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat butter or oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Add crumbled paneer, diced tomato, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
6. Scramble the mixture with a spatula to desired texture.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Jalfrezi
Jalfrezi is a popular Indian dish that combines the creaminess of paneer with the spiciness of chilies. This recipe for Paneer Jalfrezi is an easy and flavorful way to spice up your meal.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 large onions, diced
– 3-4 green chilies, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 1 minute.
3. Add onions, green chilies, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add paneer cubes and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they start to brown.
5. Add coriander powder and salt. Stir well.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Do Pyaza
Paneer Do Pyaza is a popular North Indian recipe that combines the richness of paneer (Indian cheese) with the bold flavors of onions, garlic, and spices. This dish is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer cubes
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add sliced onions and cook until they are lightly browned (about 5 minutes).
4. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
5. Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
6. Add paneer cubes and mix gently to coat with the spice mixture.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the paneer is fully coated.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kadai Paneer
Kadai Paneer Recipe: A Classic North Indian Delight
Experience the rich flavors of North India with this simple and delicious Kadai Paneer recipe. Paneer (Indian cheese) is cooked in a flavorful tomato-based gravy, along with bell peppers, onions, and spices.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup paneer cubes
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- Salt and red chili powder to taste
- Instructions:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic; sauté until vegetables are tender.
- Add butter, cumin seeds, salt, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in canned tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
- Add paneer cubes and stir gently to coat with the gravy. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10-12 minutes or until paneer is cooked through.
- Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Paneer Pasanda
A flavorful and creamy Indian dish made with soft paneer (Indian cheese), spinach puree, and aromatic spices. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional pasandas, perfect for serving at parties or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer cubes
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add spinach puree and stir well to combine.
5. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to coat with the spinach mixture.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the paneer is heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Paneer Lababdar
Paneer Lababdar is a popular North Indian dish that’s both rich and creamy, made with soft paneer (Indian cheese), tomatoes, and a blend of spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
2. Add sliced onions and cook until they’re lightly browned (about 5 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to combine with the tomato mixture.
6. Pour in heavy cream and stir well to coat the paneer.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over basmati rice or naan.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Paneer Kolhapuri
Paneer Kolhapuri is a popular Maharashtrian dish that combines the creaminess of paneer (Indian cheese) with the bold flavors of Kolhapuri spices. This recipe brings together the richness of the paneer and the spices to create a mouth-watering dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2-3 green chilies, chopped
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon garlic paste
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1 tablespoon Kolhapuri masala (or substitute with a mix of spices)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent.
2. Add green chilies, ginger paste, garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add paneer cubes and Kolhapuri masala. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the paneer is well coated with the spice mixture.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Paneer Chilli
A popular Indian dish that combines the creaminess of paneer (Indian cheese) with the spiciness of chillies. This recipe is a simple and flavorful take on the classic.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon chilli powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1-2 green chillies, chopped (depending on desired spiciness)
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they start browning (3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic, ginger paste, chilli powder, cumin powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add tomatoes and cook until they are soft (2-3 minutes).
5. Add paneer cubes and stir well to combine with the spice mixture.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the paneer is fully coated with the chilli sauce.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Makhani
Paneer Makhani is a popular North Indian dish that combines the creaminess of butter and cream with the tanginess of tomatoes. This recipe yields a rich and flavorful sauce to coat tender paneer cubes, perfect for serving with naan or rice.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp cumin powder
– 1 tsp coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized (about 5 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in heavy cream and remaining butter. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add paneer cubes and cook until coated in the sauce (about 2-3 minutes).
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Handi
Paneer Handi is a rich and creamy curry made with paneer (Indian cheese), spinach, and a blend of aromatic spices. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a side to your favorite Indian flatbread.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup water
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened.
2. Add ginger paste, garlic, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add paneer cubes and stir to combine.
4. Add spinach leaves and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until paneer is well coated with the sauce.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Tikka
Experience the delight of Indian cuisine with this classic Paneer Tikka recipe! Marinated paneer (Indian cheese) is grilled to perfection, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garam masala powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add salt to taste.
2. Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
4. Remove the paneer from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Brush the grill with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Grill the paneer for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes
Paneer Mutter Masala
A flavorful and aromatic North Indian dish that combines the creaminess of paneer (Indian cheese) with the earthy taste of peas and a rich tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cubed
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, cauliflower)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
2. Add onions, garlic, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until onions are lightly browned.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, paneer cubes, salt, and diced tomatoes. Stir well.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Korma
Paneer korma is a popular Indian dish that combines the creaminess of yogurt with the mild flavor of paneer (Indian cheese). This recipe yields a rich and creamy curry perfect for serving over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– 250ml yogurt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
2. Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder (if using); cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add paneer cubes and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
5. Pour in yogurt and stir well to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the curry thickens slightly.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Masala Dosa
Experience the flavors of India with this recipe for Paneer Masala Dosa, a crispy and savory flatbread filled with spiced paneer (Indian cheese) and served with a side of tangy tamarind chutney.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 1/2 cup grated paneer (Indian cheese)
– 1/4 cup spiced mixture (cumin, coriander, garam masala, amchur powder, and red chili flakes)
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth dough.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
4. Roll out each portion into thin circles (about 3-4 inches in diameter).
5. Brush with vegetable oil and sprinkle with spiced mixture.
6. Top with grated paneer.
7. Fold the dosa in half and cook on a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Paneer Kathi Roll
Experience the flavors of India with this popular street food recipe – Paneer Kathi Roll! A crispy, flavorful wrap filled with marinated paneer (Indian cheese), vegetables, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup paneer cubes
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetable filling (cabbage, carrots, bell peppers)
– 2 tbsp ghee or oil
– 2 tsp cumin seeds
– 1 tsp coriander powder
– Salt to taste
– 4-6 kathis or whole wheat wraps
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate paneer cubes in a mixture of ghee, cumin seeds, coriander powder, and salt for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a pan and sauté the mixed vegetable filling until tender.
3. Cook the marinated paneer cubes until golden brown and crispy.
4. Assemble the kathis by placing the cooked paneer and vegetables inside the wraps.
5. Serve hot with chopped cilantro as garnish.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Pakora
Paneer Pakora is a popular Indian snack made by coating paneer (Indian cheese) in a mixture of flour, spices, and herbs, then deep-frying it to a crispy golden brown. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for serving with a cup of chai or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup yogurt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, cumin seeds, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and salt.
2. Dip each paneer cube into the dry mixture, then coat with yogurt, and finally roll in the flour mixture again.
3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. When hot, add 2-3 coated paneer cubes to the oil.
4. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or dip.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a flavorful culinary journey with these 20 delicious paneer recipes! From classic dishes like Palak Paneer and Paneer Butter Masala, to spicy options like Kadai Paneer and Paneer Chilli, there’s something for everyone. Discover how paneer can be transformed into a variety of mouth-watering dishes, from creamy curries to crispy snacks. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to impress. So go ahead, give them a try and experience the taste of India!
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