Fresh, non-aged cheese, paneer is produced by curdling hot milk with a food acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar. To remove any excess whey, muslin is used to catch the curdled and coagulated milk. To drain the whey, you can place the muslin bundle under a heavy item or hang it from a hook or the kitchen sink faucet handle.
Fresh cheese cubes can be cut from the block of whey-drained cheese once all the whey has been removed. Cooking does not cause the paneer to melt. The firmness of the paneer allows it to be sliced into cubes, blocks, or any other shape you like. Grated, shredded, or scrambled, it can also be used.
Indian cottage cheese is another name for paneer. Cottage cheese made in India has a different texture than cottage cheese made elsewhere. Even while paneer is readily available in supermarkets and is easy to make at home, the best paneer is made from scratch and contains no preservatives or fillers.
Paneer is a delicious South Asian classic. It is mild and solid. Often used to counteract the spiciness of hot stews or as a source of protein in vegetarian meals, it is a versatile ingredient.
Adding paneer in various shapes is common in Indian cooking, from cubes to triangles to squares. Scrambled or grated paneer can also be used in these recipes.
Different Types of Paneer Recipes
Because of its versatility, it can be used in a wide variety of recipes to raise protein content. Paneer is the star component in the majority of these dishes. Because paneer is a rich source of calcium and protein, it is included in vegetarian meals. The best way to savor the distinctive Indian cheese is with one of these mouthwateringly creative and delectable paneer recipes.
This collection of more than 30 paneer recipes has something to offer even the most discerning of foodies. If you’re in the mood for something hot and spicy, try one of these.
1. Paneer Dessert
If you prefer your desserts to be creamy and rich, there are a few options to choose from. It’s time to get rid of your parmesan, brie, and ricotta. This dish is going to be loaded with paneer, so brace yourself for some serious cheese!
2. Paneer Butter Masala
It’s a delectable curry composed of paneer, butter, herbs, spices, onions, and tomatoes called paneer butter masala. This is a light and tasty curry that packs a lot of flavour. Tomatoes, spices, onions, cashews, and butter are all incorporated into this rich, creamy sauce. Add chunks of delicate paneer, and you’ll have a vegetarian dish that will blow your mind away.
3. Kadai Paneer
Ground coriander and red chilies are used to flavor Kadai paneer, a famous chunky stew made with ground paneer. Roasting the spices in advance is essential to a successful kadai. Their delicate aromas are enhanced as a result of this process. Make sure to boost the heat by including an additional teaspoon of garam masala and an additional tablespoon of chilli powder.
4. Malai Kofta
The term “kofta” refers to meatballs in Indian cuisine. Traditional dishes like this potato paneer kofta can easily be adapted to be vegetarian. Mash potatoes and paneer with a variety of spices to make these doughy balls. It is served with a thick tomato sauce and deep-fried, giving them a crunchy outer shell and a delicious flavor.
5. Palak Paneer
Palak paneer is a flavorful and nutritious side dish made with spinach that has been seasoned. This mild and creamy meal has cubes of paneer cooked in a rich purée of spinach. By serving in a large bowl with a side of buttery naan bread and/or fluffy rice, you can make this a full dinner that can be enjoyed by everyone.
6. Paneer Chilli
This Indian-Chinese fusion dish is prepared in the style of a fine dining establishment. Sweet and spicy chilli sauce is used to brown and flavor paneer cubes. This detailed recipe includes instructions for three distinct preparations of the well-known dish: dry, semi-dry, and gravy. If you prefer your cheese slathered in a hot sauce, you will love this recipe.
7. Paneer Lababdar
Paneer chunks in a thick sauce make up this vegetarian and gluten-free side dish. This zesty sauce has a lot going on. Onions, cashews, tomatoes, and other spices, such as ginger, garlic, and cardamon, flavour the dish.
8. Paneer Tikka
The tandoori oven cooking method is referred to as ‘tikka’ in many Indian recipes. This recipe keeps things simple because most of us don’t have access to a traditional tandoor. A simple oven is all you’ll need to prepare delectable grilled paneer (insert sigh of relief here). Simply marinade paneer, skewer it with fresh vegetables, and bake. Easy!
9. Manchurian Paneer
Make the ideal Manchurian sauce with this recipe, and you’ll discover a whole new world of hot and sour flavor. Soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and other Chinese-inspired spices are used in this meal, which has a distinct Chinese flavor. Fusion food at its best.
10. Paneer 65
As a quick appetizer or savory snack, paneer 65 is deep-fried cheese chunks that are crisp and golden brown. What else could possibly make you slobber like that? Spiced paneer is dipped into hot oil before being cooked to a rich brown. If you want to impress your fellow foodies, serve them this crunchy, irresistible appetizer.
11. Garlic Paneer
This quick starting may seem simple, but don’t be deceived. The flavors in this dish are complex, but it’s easy to make. This dish is made with paneer cubes cooked in a savory garlic sauce. This is an excellent option for those on a diet because there is no batter, no cooking, and no grease.
12. Paneer Paratha
Paneer paratha, a traditional North Indian flatbread, is a terrific option for a unique breakfast or brunch. Spiced paneer fills this bread-like pancake, which is then reheated and melted to perfection. It’s a savory pancake that’s perfect for a hearty breakfast.
13. Paneer Bhurji
This paneer bhurji is an Indian-inspired spin on scrambled eggs for a gorgeous brunch. A hearty bowl of paneer scrambled with chilies, onions, and tomatoes is ready in just a few minutes.
14. Paneer Pulao
Although this simple vegetarian dish appears uncomplicated, each mouthful is packed with flavor thanks to the generous amount of cumin and coriander seeds. It’s stuffed with paneer, rice, and vegetables. This hearty one-pot pilaf will keep you toasty on winter nights.
15. Paneer Biryani
When it comes to rice dishes in Indian cuisine, Biryani ranks among the most popular. Rice, paneer, vegetables, and spices are all incorporated into this dish. Perfect for a night in, this South Asian comfort food is simple to prepare, cheap, and full of flavor.
16. Paneer Korma
Mughlai style paneer dish, Paneer Korma, is a dish in which paneer cubes are cooked in onion-based gravy. This thick and creamy dish from India is perfect with some Indian bread. This recipe for Paneer Shahi Korma is extremely delectable. After all, what’s not to like about a flavor that’s mild, buttery, nutty, and rich? Anyone who has never had Indian food before should start with this vegetarian version. It’s creamy and delicious, with just the right amount of spiciness.
17. Paneer Achari
A delectable combination of paneer, yoghurt, and pickles makes this North Indian snack a must-have. Pickles, fennel, nigella seed, and fenugreek are used for pickling the onions. A zingy flavor will be added, making it a wonderful spicy snack when finished.
18. Paneer Pizza
You can’t go wrong with this scrumptious concoction of two of your favourite takeout dinners. And it’s insanely delicious. Marinara sauce, paneer, bell peppers, onions, and cheese go on top of a handmade pizza crust. You’ll eat it all in one sitting.
19. Paneer Sandwich
This Indian-inspired sandwich comes in three different flavors. No-bake paneer sandwiches can be made by crumbling seasoned paneer between two slices of toasted bread and serving them with a spicy chutney. When possible, toast your spices before using them in the filling. Sauté the stuffing for a hearty lunch if you’re feeling ambitious in the kitchen.
20. Paneer Kathi Rolls
Food that can be eaten on the fly, like Kathi rolls, is delicious. A flaky flatbread is filled with kebab meats that have been roasted on skewers. The paneer filling in this recipe gives it a vegetarian twist. Snacks like this one may not have any meat in them, but they’re still delicious.
21. Tawa Paneer
Whether you’re serving rice or meat, tawa paneer is an excellent side to have on hand. It resembles an Indian salsa with its thick mixture of paneer, onions, capsicum, and tomatoes. Every meal may benefit from this sauce, whether it’s served on naan bread or on top of rice.
22. Pan-Fried Paneer with Pyaza Sauce
Onion is referred to as pyaza in Hindi. As a result, this simple side dish should deliver lots of earthy, pungent flavor. This dish features paneer cooked in an onion, garlic, and ginger mixture. This dish is rounded out with the addition of fresh cilantro and a touch of sweetness from tomato paste.
23. Paneer Pasanda
To make paneer pasanda, you simply fry cubes of paneer and serve them in a tomato sauce. This recipe is ideal for those who prefer their comfort food to be rich and creamy. This savory dish is a nutritional powerhouse. In a tomato and onion gravy, it’s a healthful mix of mushrooms, paneer, veggies, and plenty of anti-inflammatory spices.
24. Aloo Paneer
Aloo Paneer is one of several vegetarian options. Easy and cozy, aloo paneer is a great dish for cold nights and long days. It’s cooked with a gentle and nutty sauce of soft potatoes and tender paneer. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, it’s a delicious option.
25. Chhena Poda
Delicious in every way, this delectable delicacy is a cross between cheesecake and coffee cake. Cardamom and banana leaves combine to create a flavor that is all its own.
26. Paneer Jalfreza
This 20-minute curry can help you get a delicious meal on the table in a jiffy during the week. Slices of paneer are sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers in a flavorful stir-fry.
27. Paneer Bread Roll
If you’re hosting a party, you may serve these beautiful, crunchy, and delicious rolls as appetizers. For a spicy twist, try eating them hot out of the oven with some spicy chutney. No matter how you prepare it, you’re sure to enjoy this mouthwatering dish. To make the wraps even tastier, they’re packed with spicy paneer filling.
28. Stuffed Paneer Patties
Kids have tried and tested these snacks, so you know they’re good. The patties are somewhat spicy, so if you want to widen your kids’ gastronomic horizons, make them.
29. Paneer Jamun
Paneer jamun is an Indian confection composed of paneer, ghee, and sugar. Cubes of gummy goodness in a rainbow of colours. Kids’ parties and baby showers could benefit from serving these as an exotic treat.
30. Sandesh
Sandesh, a sweet dish with Bengali roots, is often offered at celebrations. It’s a sweet treat that deserves a celebration! Paneer, cardamom powder, and sugar are all that are needed to make this delicious treat.
31. Paneer Kheer
Cardamom, saffron, and rosewater flavor the creamy, milky pudding known as paneer kheer. If you like, you can serve this at room temperature or chilled. To make it even more indulgent, sprinkle it with roasted nuts and dried fruit.
32. Rasgulla
If you’ve never had it, you’re missing out. Light and fluffy paneer balls are produced by simmering paneer in sugar syrup until they’re cooked through. This is a luscious delicacy that melts on your lips with every bite.
33. Rasmalai
Rasmalai can be served as a sweet snack or as an aromatic dessert. Paneer dumplings are steeped in sweetened milk to make this dish. Savor the exquisite sweetness of saffron and cardamom in this meal. Serve it to your special someone since nothing says ‘I love you’ like creamy pudding.
Final Words
And that’s a wrap on different types of paneer recipes. Try a few of these delectable dishes, and let us know your favorite in the comments section.