7 Irresistible Paneer Recipes You Must Try

Paneer, a versatile and delightful Indian cheese, has long been a staple in South Asian cuisine due to its unique texture and ability to absorb flavors beautifully. Whether you're an experienced cook or a culinary novice, these 7 Irresistible Paneer Recipes will not only enhance your cooking repertoire but also offer a delightful journey through Indian flavors. Let's dive into these mouth-watering recipes that you absolutely must try.

Paneer Butter Masala

Paneer Butter Masala is an iconic Indian dish known for its rich, creamy, and slightly sweet taste. This dish is perfect for those who have a soft spot for buttery, tomato-based gravies.

• Ingredients:
  • 250 gm paneer (cottage cheese), cubed
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 2 onions, finely chopped
  • 3 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional)
  • 2 tbsp cashew paste
  • Kasuri methi (dry fenugreek leaves) for garnish
• How to Prepare:
  1. Heat oil and butter in a pan, add onions and sauté until golden brown.
  2. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
  3. Mix in the tomato puree, cook until oil separates.
  4. Stir in spices - red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Cook for a few minutes.
  5. Add cashew paste to thicken the gravy, followed by salt and sugar.
  6. Add cream, mix well, then gently add paneer cubes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  7. Crush kasuri methi between your palms, sprinkle over the dish, and cook for another 2 minutes.
  8. Serve hot with naan or roti.

🍴 Note: For a vegan version, use tofu instead of paneer and skip the cream or use a non-dairy alternative.

Palak Paneer

Combining the earthy flavors of spinach with the creamy richness of paneer, Palak Paneer is a nutritional powerhouse as well as a delicious treat.

• Ingredients:
  • 250 gm paneer, cubed
  • 500 gm spinach leaves
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 green chilies
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp ghee or oil
  • 1/4 cup cream (optional)
• How to Prepare:
  1. Blanch the spinach, then puree it with green chilies to a smooth paste.
  2. In a pan, heat ghee/oil, add cumin seeds, and let them splutter.
  3. Add chopped onions, sauté until translucent, then add ginger and garlic. Cook until the raw smell disappears.
  4. Add tomato puree, cook until it thickens.
  5. Mix in turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Stir in the spinach puree, cook for 5 minutes.
  6. Add paneer cubes, cook for another 5 minutes. Optionally, stir in cream.
  7. Serve hot with chapati or rice.

🌱 Note: To keep the dish vibrant, blanch spinach in boiling salted water for just 1-2 minutes, then immediately shock in cold water to retain color.

Paneer Tikka

Paneer Tikka is the ultimate appetizer for your next dinner party, offering a delightful blend of spicy and tangy flavors.

• Ingredients:
  • 400 gm paneer, cut into 1-inch squares
  • 1/2 cup thick yogurt
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp mustard oil
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 capsicum, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
• How to Prepare:
  1. Whisk yogurt with all spices, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and salt to form a marinade.
  2. Marinate paneer, capsicum, and onion pieces for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator.
  3. Skewer the marinated paneer and vegetables alternately.
  4. Grill in a preheated oven at 200°C or on a stovetop grill pan until nicely charred.
  5. Serve hot with mint chutney.

⚠️ Note: Make sure to remove excess moisture from paneer before marinating to ensure it absorbs the flavors well.

To be continued with more irresistible paneer recipes…

Can I use store-bought paneer?

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Yes, you can certainly use store-bought paneer. However, for the best results, ensure the paneer is fresh and firm. If it’s too soft or crumbly, press it gently between paper towels to drain excess moisture before cooking.

Is there a vegan alternative for paneer?

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Tofu serves as an excellent vegan substitute for paneer. Choose firm or extra-firm tofu and ensure it’s properly drained and pressed to mimic paneer’s texture.

What are some healthy side dishes to serve with paneer?

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Consider serving dishes like cucumber raita, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables to complement the richness of paneer dishes while keeping your meal balanced and nutritious.