When it comes to Indian cuisine, paneer is a staple ingredient that never fails to impress. This versatile dairy product has become an integral part of many popular dishes across the subcontinent. For those who are new to cooking with paneer, the options can be overwhelming, but fear not! In this article, we’ll take you through 20 delicious and easy-to-make paneer recipes perfect for beginners.
From classic curries like Paneer Butter Masala to tasty snacks like Paneer Bhurji and mouthwatering sandwiches like Paneer Sandwich, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to add some protein-rich goodness to your meals, these paneer recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So, let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of paneer cooking!
Paneer Butter Masala
Paneer Butter Masala is a popular Indian dish that combines the creaminess of butter and tomato sauce with the richness of paneer (Indian cheese). This recipe is a simplified version of the original, using easily available ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer cubes
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter and ghee/oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn light golden brown.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using) and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes and stir well to combine.
6. Add the paneer cubes and stir gently to coat with the tomato sauce.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the paneer is fully coated in the sauce.
8. Season with salt to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Paneer
Palak Paneer is a classic Indian dish that combines the creaminess of spinach puree with the richness of paneer (Indian cheese). This recipe is an easy and flavorful way to enjoy this popular curry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup paneer cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Blend spinach and 1 tablespoon butter until smooth.
2. Heat remaining butter in a pan; add onion, garlic, cumin, and coriander. Cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add paneer cubes and cook until lightly browned.
4. Stir in spinach puree, heavy cream, and salt. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Tikka
A popular Indian appetizer, Paneer Tikka is a flavorful and crispy snack made with marinated paneer (Indian cheese) and grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer cubes
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon garlic paste
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for grilling
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt.
2. Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Remove the paneer from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the paneer until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through (about 5-6 minutes per side).
5. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or raita.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Bhurji
Paneer Bhurji is a popular Indian dish that combines scrambled paneer (Indian cheese) with spices, onions, and tomatoes. This recipe is a quick and easy twist on the classic omelette.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, crumbled
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
4. Add the crumbled paneer, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the paneer is scrambled and the mixture is heated through.
6. Serve hot garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Paneer Jalfrezi
A popular Indian dish that combines the creaminess of paneer with the spiciness of jalfrezi, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add some excitement to their meal. With its tangy flavors and crunchy texture, Paneer Jalfrezi is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3-4 green chilies, slit
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 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, green chilies, and tomatoes. Cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Add paneer cubes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Do Pyaza
A flavorful and creamy Indian dish, Paneer Do Pyaza is a delight to the senses. This simple recipe requires minimal ingredients and cooking time.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 medium-sized onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
– 2-3 green chilies, chopped (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat butter or ghee in a large pan 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.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the paneer is well coated with the spice mixture.
7. Add coriander powder, salt, and chopped green chilies (if using). Stir well.
8. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Tikka Masala
Experience the rich flavors of India with this classic recipe that combines tender paneer (Indian cheese) with a velvety tomato-based sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer cubes
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Marinate paneer cubes in yogurt, ginger paste, cumin, coriander, garam masala powder, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill or bake the marinated paneer until golden brown.
4. In a pan, sauté onions and garlic until softened. Add the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and spices. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
5. Serve the grilled paneer with the creamy tomato sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Paneer Pasanda
This recipe is a popular North Indian dish that consists of soft paneer (Indian cheese) wrapped in a creamy tomato-based sauce, served with basmati rice or naan bread.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
2. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, garam masala powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer the sauce for 10-12 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
5. Add the paneer cubes and stir gently to coat with the sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Lababdar
Paneer Lababdar is a rich and creamy Indian dish made with paneer (Indian cheese), spices, and nuts. This flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– 1 tablespoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Chopped almonds or cashews, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger paste. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to coat with the spice mixture.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Garnish with chopped nuts and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Matar
A creamy and flavorful North Indian dish, Paneer Matar is a popular vegetarian recipe that combines the tender goodness of paneer (Indian cheese) with the sweetness of peas. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 250 gm paneer, cut into small cubes
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons milk
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add onions and cook until they are lightly browned.
4. Add garlic, coriander powder, and garam masala powder. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add peas and cook until they are tender.
6. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to combine.
7. Add milk and adjust seasoning with salt.
8. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
9. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Chilli
Paneer Chilli is a popular Indian dish that combines the creaminess of paneer (Indian cheese) with the spiciness of red chillies. This recipe is a simplified version of the original, perfect for those looking to add some excitement to their meal.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer cubes
– 2 large onions, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2-3 green chillies, slit
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until they are translucent.
2. Add garlic, ginger, red chilli powder, and turmeric powder. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the paneer cubes and stir to coat with the spice mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the paneer is lightly browned.
4. Add salt to taste and the slit green chillies. Stir well.
5. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavours have melded together.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Kathi Roll
Experience the flavors of India with this popular street food recipe – Paneer Kathi Roll! A delightful combination of soft, creamy paneer (Indian cheese), crunchy vegetables and aromatic spices wrapped in a crispy paratha.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, crumbled
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (capsicum, carrot, cucumber)
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– 4-6 parathas
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the bell peppers and cook until they’re tender-crisp.
5. Add the crumbled paneer and mix well.
6. Warm the parathas by wrapping them in a damp cloth and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the kathi rolls by placing the paneer mixture onto the center of each paratha, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. Fold the bottom half up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Sandwich
A delicious Indian twist on a classic sandwich, this paneer sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 1/2 cup paneer (Indian cheese), crumbled
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt to taste
– 1-2 lettuce leaves or mint chutney for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with a portion of the crumbled paneer, chopped onion, and cumin seeds.
5. Sprinkle salt to taste.
6. Place another bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional minute.
9. Serve warm with lettuce leaves or mint chutney.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Paneer Paratha
Savor the flavors of India with this simple and delicious paneer paratha recipe. Made with paneer (Indian cheese), spices, and whole wheat flour, these crispy flatbreads are perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup paneer, crumbled
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add crumbled paneer and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add water to form a dough.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle (about 3 inches in diameter).
6. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
7. Cook parathas for 30-40 seconds on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Pakora
A popular Indian snack or appetizer, Paneer Pakora is a flavorful and crunchy treat made with paneer (Indian cheese), spices, and a light batter. This recipe yields a delicious and addictive pakora that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander seeds
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped cilantro or mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, salt, cumin seeds, and coriander seeds.
2. Add the paneer cubes to the dry mixture and coat them evenly.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water to the mixture, stirring until it forms a thick batter.
4. Heat enough oil in a deep frying pan to fry the pakoras.
5. Dip each paneer cube into the batter, then gently place it into the hot oil.
6. Fry the pakoras until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm with a sprinkle of cilantro or mint leaves (if desired).
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Paneer Biryani
Paneer Biryani Recipe
Paneer Biryani is a delightful fusion of Indian flavors, combining the creaminess of paneer (Indian cheese) with the aromatic spices and basmati rice. This recipe yields a flavorful and creamy biryani that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 cup paneer (Indian cheese), crumbled
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain the water and set the rice aside.
- In a pan, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
- Add onions, garlic, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the onions are translucent.
- Add crumbled paneer and stir well to combine with the spices.
- Now add the cooked rice to the pan, stirring gently to combine with the spice mixture.
- Gradually add water to the pan, stirring continuously until the rice is well coated with the liquid and the mixture comes together in a creamy consistency.
Cooking Time:
Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the biryani is cooked through and the flavors have melded together. Serve hot and enjoy!
Paneer Cutlet
Enjoy the perfect blend of spices and creamy paneer (Indian cheese) wrapped in a crispy coating, perfect for a quick snack or as an accompaniment to your favorite chutney.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, crumbled
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together paneer, breadcrumbs, carrot, cilantro, lemon juice, and ginger paste.
2. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size.
3. Shape each portion into a cutlet.
4. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
5. Fry the cutlets until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Paneer Kofta
Paneer Kofta is a popular Indian snack or appetizer made with paneer (Indian cheese), spices, and herbs. These crispy fritters are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a party or just a quick bite.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, crumbled
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together paneer, breadcrumbs, cilantro, ginger, garlic, lemon juice, and cumin powder.
2. Divide the mixture into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
3. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the koftas until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
6. Remove from oil and drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Paneer Pizza
A delicious fusion of Indian flavors with Italian classic, this Paneer Pizza recipe combines the creaminess of paneer (Indian cheese) with the tanginess of tomato sauce and the crunch of fresh veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup paneer (Indian cheese), crumbled
– 1/2 cup pizza dough
– 1/4 cup tomato puree
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, mushrooms, olives)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mozzarella cheese shreds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough and place it on a baking sheet.
3. Spread the tomato puree evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with chopped onion, garlic, and mixed veggies.
5. Add crumbled paneer and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If using Mozzarella cheese, add shreds on top.
7. Drizzle olive oil around the crust.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Stir Fry
A flavorful and simple Indian-inspired dish that combines the creaminess of paneer with a mix of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add paneer cubes and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until paneer is lightly browned.
6. Add soy sauce, garam masala, cumin, and salt. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are well coated.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Are you looking to spice up your meal routine with some delicious and easy-to-make paneer recipes? Look no further! This article presents 20 mouth-watering paneer recipes perfect for beginners. From classic Indian dishes like Paneer Butter Masala and Palak Paneer, to innovative creations like Paneer Pizza and Paneer Stir Fry, there’s something for everyone. These simple and flavorful recipes are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to mix things up, this collection of paneer recipes is the perfect place to start.