Cheese Recipes Vegetarian Indian: Delicious & Easy Ideas

Indian cuisine offers a rich tapestry of flavors, colors, and textures, and when combined with the creamy delight of cheese, it creates a match made in culinary heaven. Vegetarian Indian cheese recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy the best of both worlds—wholesome, meat-free ingredients and the comforting, indulgent taste of various kinds of cheese.

From the beloved paneer tikka to the melt-in-your-mouth cheese stuffed parathas, these dishes are perfect for those who want hearty, flavorful meals that celebrate vegetarianism without compromising on taste.

Cheese in Indian cooking is not just an ingredient but a star that enhances the overall experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a nutritious family meal, or simply craving something delicious, these cheese recipes will surely impress.

Let’s explore some of the most popular and easy-to-make vegetarian Indian cheese recipes that you can whip up in your kitchen today!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These vegetarian Indian cheese recipes are a fusion of tradition and taste, offering vibrant spices balanced with the creamy texture of cheese. They are:

• Nutritious: Packed with protein and calcium from cheese and paneer, these dishes support a balanced diet.
• Versatile: Perfect for any meal—breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even snacks.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make these recipes accessible for all skill levels.
• Flavorful: Rich Indian spices combined with cheese create mouthwatering dishes that satisfy cravings.

Ingredients

• Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) – 250 grams
• All-purpose flour (maida) – 1 cup (for paratha dough)
• Gram flour (besan) – 1/2 cup (for pakoras)
• Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
• Green chilies – 2, finely chopped
• Ginger-garlic paste – 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder – 1/2 teaspoon
• Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon
• Garam masala – 1 teaspoon
• Cumin seeds – 1 teaspoon
• Fresh coriander leaves – a handful, chopped
• Salt – to taste
• Butter or ghee – 2 tablespoons
• Oil – for frying and cooking
• Tomato puree – 1/2 cup (for gravy recipes)
• Yogurt – 1/4 cup (optional, for marination)
• Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) – 1 teaspoon (optional)

Equipment

• Non-stick frying pan or skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin and board (for parathas)
• Deep frying pan or kadai
• Spatula
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater (if using block cheese varieties)

Instructions

Paneer Tikka (Grilled Indian Cheese Cubes)

1. Prepare the paneer: Cut 250 grams of paneer into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
2. Make the marinade: In a bowl, mix 1/4 cup yogurt, 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste, 1 teaspoon red chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon garam masala, salt to taste, and a tablespoon of oil.
3. Marinate the paneer: Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and gently toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. Prepare the skewers: Thread the marinated paneer cubes onto skewers, alternating with bell pepper and onion pieces if desired.
5. Cook: Heat a non-stick pan or grill pan over medium heat. Grill the skewers, turning occasionally, until the paneer is golden brown and slightly charred, about 8-10 minutes.
6. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with chaat masala and fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with green chutney and lemon wedges.

Cheese Stuffed Paratha

1. Make the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and enough water to knead into a soft dough. Cover and rest for 20 minutes.
2. Prepare the stuffing: Grate 150 grams paneer or processed cheese. Mix with finely chopped green chilies, coriander leaves, 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds, and salt.
3. Roll the paratha: Divide dough into equal balls. Roll one ball into a small circle, place a spoonful of cheese stuffing in the center, fold the edges over to seal, and roll gently into a 6-inch circle again.
4. Cook: Heat a tawa or skillet. Cook the paratha on medium heat, applying ghee or butter on both sides until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve: Serve hot with yogurt or pickle.

Cheese Pakoras (Fritters)

1. Prepare the batter: Mix 1/2 cup gram flour with salt, 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon turmeric, and enough water to make a smooth batter.
2. Cut cheese: Cut 150 grams paneer or processed cheese into bite-sized cubes.
3. Coat and fry: Dip the cheese cubes into the batter, then deep-fry in hot oil until golden and crisp.
4. Drain & Serve: Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot with mint chutney or ketchup.

Paneer Butter Masala (Creamy Cheese Curry)

1. Sauté spices: Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a pan, add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, and sauté until aromatic.
2. Add aromatics: Add 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste and 1 finely chopped onion. Cook until golden brown.
3. Add tomato puree: Stir in 1/2 cup tomato puree, 1 teaspoon red chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, and salt. Cook until oil separates.
4. Add paneer: Add 250 grams paneer cubes and mix gently.
5. Add cream: Stir in 1/4 cup fresh cream or yogurt, cook for 5 minutes on low heat.
6. Finish: Sprinkle with kasuri methi and garnish with coriander leaves. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

For softer paneer, soak it in warm water for 15 minutes before cooking.

Use homemade paneer for a fresher taste and better texture.

Adjust spice levels according to your preference to keep the dishes kid-friendly or bold.

Try adding spinach or methi leaves to the cheese stuffing for extra nutrition.

Substitute paneer with tofu for a vegan twist, but be sure to press out excess water.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These cheese-centric Indian dishes pair beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Serve paneer tikka with fresh green chutney, sliced onions, and lemon wedges for a delightful appetizer.

Cheese stuffed parathas go well with a bowl of cooling yogurt or raita and your favorite pickle.

Paneer butter masala tastes best with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread. For cheese pakoras, a tangy tamarind chutney or mint-coriander chutney elevates the flavor.

Don’t forget to offer a fresh salad or simple cucumber slices to balance the richness of these dishes.

Conclusion

Vegetarian Indian cheese recipes are a celebration of flavor, texture, and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these dishes provide an excellent way to explore Indian spices and cheese combinations that are both satisfying and wholesome.

Incorporating cheese into vegetarian meals adds a creamy indulgence and a boost of protein, making your meals more balanced and enjoyable.

From the smoky paneer tikka to the comforting cheese stuffed paratha and rich paneer butter masala, these recipes bring warmth to your dining table and joy to your taste buds. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the spices and add your personal touch.

For more inspiration on Indian cooking and vegetarian delights, check out Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe, Peda Recipe Ricotta Cheese, and Pecan Crackers Recipe. Happy cooking!

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