5 Spicy Ways to Make Chilli Paneer at Home

Indian cuisine is renowned for its rich and diverse flavors, and one dish that stands out for its spicy twist is Chilli Paneer. Paneer, a type of fresh cheese common in South Asian cuisine, can be transformed into a sizzling, aromatic treat with the right blend of spices and ingredients. Whether you're a spice lover or someone looking to add some zest to your meal, here are five unique ways to make Chilli Paneer at home.

1. Classic Chilli Paneer

This is the quintessential version that captures the essence of this Indo-Chinese fusion dish:

• Ingredients:
  • Paneer, cubed - 250g
  • Green bell peppers, diced - 1
  • Onion, diced - 1
  • Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
  • Green chillies, slit - 3-4
  • Ginger garlic paste - 1 tablespoon
  • Cornstarch - 3 tablespoons
  • Tomato sauce - 2 tablespoons
  • Vinegar - 1 tablespoon
  • Salt to taste
  • Oil for frying
  • Spring onion for garnish
• Steps:
  1. Coat the paneer cubes in cornstarch and deep fry until they turn golden. Set aside.
  2. In a wok, heat oil, add onions, green chillies, and bell peppers. Stir-fry until tender but still crisp.
  3. Add ginger garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
  4. Pour in soy sauce, tomato sauce, vinegar, and salt. Mix well.
  5. Add the fried paneer and toss to coat with the sauce.
  6. Garnish with spring onions and serve hot.

🔥 Note: You can control the spice level by adjusting the number of green chillies or adding some red chilli sauce for extra heat.

2. Honey Chilli Paneer

For a sweet and spicy twist, honey adds a unique flavor profile to this already delicious dish:

• Ingredients:
  • Same ingredients as Classic Chilli Paneer
  • Honey - 2 tablespoons
• Steps:
  1. Follow the steps for Classic Chilli Paneer.
  2. After adding paneer, drizzle honey over the dish, ensuring even coating.
  3. Stir gently and let it simmer for a minute to blend the flavors.

Here's an image of what your Honey Chilli Paneer should look like:

🍯 Note: If you find it too sweet, balance it with a bit more vinegar or soy sauce.

3. Chilli Garlic Paneer

By emphasizing the use of garlic, this version packs a punch:

• Ingredients:
  • Same ingredients as Classic Chilli Paneer
  • Garlic, finely chopped - 8-10 cloves
• Steps:
  1. Start by preparing the paneer as in Classic Chilli Paneer.
  2. In a separate pan, fry the garlic until it's golden brown.
  3. Add this garlic to the stir-fried vegetables and paneer, mixing thoroughly to infuse the flavors.

🌶️ Note: Garlic can be overwhelming if used in excess. Adjust according to your taste preference.

4. Dry Chilli Paneer

Ideal as an appetizer or starter, this version is without the sauce:

• Ingredients:
  • Paneer, cubed - 250g
  • Green bell peppers, diced - 1
  • Onion, diced - 1
  • Green chillies, slit - 3-4
  • Ginger, julienned - 1 tablespoon
  • Garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon
  • Soy sauce - 1 tablespoon
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Schezwan sauce (optional) - 1 tablespoon
  • Salt to taste
  • Oil for frying
  • Spring onion for garnish
• Steps:
  1. Fry the paneer cubes until golden, drain, and set aside.
  2. In a wok, sauté onions, bell peppers, chillies, ginger, and garlic until crisp.
  3. Add soy sauce and Schezwan sauce (if using), black pepper, and salt.
  4. Toss the paneer in this dry mixture, mixing well to coat each piece.
  5. Garnish with spring onion before serving.

🔗 Note: Adjust the amount of Schezwan sauce for an extra kick of spice.

5. Chilli Paneer Stir Fry with Mushroom and Baby Corn

Add some variety with vegetables for a healthier, more colorful dish:

• Ingredients:
  • Paneer, cubed - 250g
  • Mushrooms, sliced - 1 cup
  • Baby corn, cut into halves - 1 cup
  • Green bell peppers, diced - 1
  • Onion, diced - 1
  • Green chillies, slit - 3-4
  • Ginger garlic paste - 1 tablespoon
  • Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
  • Red chilli sauce - 1 tablespoon
  • Vinegar - 1 tablespoon
  • Salt to taste
  • Oil for frying and stir-frying
• Steps:
  1. Prepare paneer as in Classic Chilli Paneer.
  2. Stir-fry mushrooms, baby corn, bell peppers, and onions in a little oil. Add green chillies, ginger garlic paste, and salt.
  3. Once vegetables are cooked, add the sauces, vinegar, and paneer. Toss until everything is well coated.
  4. Serve hot with rice or noodles.

To summarize, Chilli Paneer is a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit any palate. From the classic fiery preparation to the sweet honey variant, or the garlic-rich option, there's a version for everyone. Whether you prefer your paneer dry or drenched in a flavorful sauce, with mushrooms or baby corn for a veggie twist, these recipes provide a gateway into the spicy world of Indian-Chinese fusion cuisine. Experiment with these recipes, adjust the spice levels to your taste, and discover your favorite way to enjoy this spicy, cheesy delight.

Can I make Chilli Paneer less spicy?

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Yes, you can reduce the heat by using fewer green chillies or opting for milder varieties. Additionally, increasing the proportion of tomato or soy sauce can help balance out the spiciness.

Is Chilli Paneer suitable for vegetarians?

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Absolutely, Chilli Paneer is vegetarian as it uses paneer, which is made from milk. Ensure to use vegetarian-friendly sauces and check ingredients for any hidden non-vegetarian components.

Can Chilli Paneer be frozen for later?

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While it can be frozen, the texture of the paneer might change after reheating. For best results, consume it fresh or refrigerate for up to a couple of days, reheating gently to preserve texture and flavor.