Spice Fusion: Chilli Paneer Delight

Chilli Paneer is a spicy, flavorable Indo-Chinese fusion that has become a favourite among foodies worldwide. Very quick and easy to make, this dish is ideal for those who like a mix of crunchy vegetables and crispy paneer cubes with a savory sauce just hot enough. Be it an evening with friends or relatives or even a self-treat, this recipe is going to please your taste buds no doubt.

 

What is Chilli Paneer Recipe?

Chilli Paneer – a popular Indo-Chinese dish where small cubes of paneer are tossed into a spicy, tangy sauce giving that extra kick, prepared using a variety of savory ingredients. This can be an excellent dish for a starter or snack and can also be relished as a main course, giving its combination with fried rice or noodles. Its bold flavors and bright colors make it hard to resist.

Ingredients for Chilli Paneer

Category	Ingredients
For Paneer	200g Paneer (cubed)
For Marinade	2 tbsp Cornflour, 2 tbsp All-purpose Flour, 1/2 tsp Salt, 1/4 tsp Black Pepper, Water (as needed)
For Sauce	1 tbsp Soy Sauce, 1 tbsp Red Chili Sauce, 1 tbsp Tomato Ketchup, 1/2 tsp Vinegar
Vegetables	1 Capsicum (diced), 1 Onion (diced), 2-3 Green Chilies (slit)
Spices & Herbs	1 tsp Ginger-Garlic Paste, 1/4 tsp Black Pepper, Salt to taste, Spring Onions (for garnish)
Cooking	3 tbsp Oil (for frying and cooking)

How to Make Chilli Paneer (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Paneer

• Cut the paneer into small cubes.
• Mix cornflour, all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Add water gradually to form a thick batter.
• Coat the paneer cubes in the batter.
• Heat oil in a pan and shallow fry the coated paneer cubes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base

• In the same pan, heat 1 tbsp oil.
• Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté until aromatic.
• Toss in the diced onions, capsicum, and green chilies. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Chilli Paneer

• Add soy sauce, chili sauce, tomato ketchup, and vinegar to the pan. Mix well.
• Add a splash of water if needed to adjust the consistency.
• Toss the fried paneer cubes into the sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated.
• Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring gently to avoid breaking the paneer.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle freshly chopped spring onions on top.
• Serve hot with fried rice, noodles, or enjoy as a standalone appetizer.

Pro Tips to Make the Best Chilli Paneer

• Use Fresh Paneer: Ensure the paneer is fresh and soft for the best texture.
• Balance the Heat: Add chili sauce and green chilies as per your taste preference.
• Crispiness Matters: Shallow-fry the paneer on medium heat so that it stays crisp without burning.
• Prep Ahead: Chop all the vegetables and prepare ingredients for the sauce ahead of time so that you have a smooth cooking process.
• Serve Immediately: Chilli Paneer is best when served hot and fresh.

Why Choose Blend of India Spices?

For an unforgettable taste, a good amount of spices do the magic. Blend of India is coming up with its organic preservative-free spices, promising to get the real authentic flavors of India in the kitchen today. Watch this space for the launch of Blend of India Spices to be your

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?

A: Yes, replace paneer with Indian cottage cheese, firm tofu, or extra-firm tofu and make sure the sauces used are vegan-friendly.

Q: Can I bake paneer instead of frying it?

A: Sure thing! Bake paneer cubes at 200°C (392°F) for 10-12 minutes or till it’s crispy.

Q: How do I store the leftovers?

A: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop for the best results.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

A: Of course! Bell peppers, carrots, and baby corn are a great addition.