Cheena Paneer Vegetarian Recipe Easy and Delicious Ideas

Cheena Paneer is a delightful vegetarian dish that brings together the rich flavors of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and the bold, aromatic spices of Indo-Chinese cuisine. This recipe is perfect for those who crave a fusion meal that combines the creaminess of paneer with the tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors typical of Chinese-inspired Indian cooking.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and guests alike. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to add a protein-packed vegetarian option to your dinner table that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture.

With its vibrant colors and irresistible aroma, Cheena Paneer makes a great appetizer or a main course when paired with steamed rice or fried noodles. Dive into this recipe to explore a delicious culinary crossover that celebrates the best of both worlds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheena Paneer recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly flavorful, thanks to the perfect balance of soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of chili that brings a pleasant heat without overwhelming the palate.

The paneer cubes are fried to golden perfection, giving them a lovely crispy exterior while remaining soft inside.

Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. It works beautifully as a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer.

Plus, it’s vegetarian and packed with protein, making it a healthy yet indulgent choice. If you enjoy Indo-Chinese cuisine, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites!

Ingredients

• 250 grams paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 medium bell pepper (red or green), sliced
• 3-4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1-inch piece ginger, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili sauce (adjust for spice level)
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
• 1 teaspoon vinegar
• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or sesame)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper powder
• Salt, to taste
• Spring onions, chopped for garnish
• 1/2 cup water

Equipment

• Non-stick frying pan or wok
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and chopping board
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Slotted spoon (for frying)
• Serving plate

Instructions

1. Prepare the paneer: In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, all-purpose flour, a pinch of salt, and enough water to make a smooth thick batter. Toss the paneer cubes gently in this batter ensuring they are fully coated.
2. Fry the paneer: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Carefully drop the batter-coated paneer cubes into the hot oil and fry until they turn golden and crispy on all sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
3. Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, add a little oil if needed. Add chopped garlic, ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not burnt.
4. Add vegetables: Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry on high heat for 2-3 minutes so they remain slightly crunchy.
5. Make the sauce: Lower the heat and add soy sauce, chili sauce, tomato ketchup, vinegar, salt, and black pepper powder. Stir well to combine.
6. Add water: Pour half a cup of water into the pan and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. This will help to thicken it slightly and coat the vegetables evenly.
7. Combine paneer and sauce: Add the fried paneer cubes back into the pan. Toss gently to coat the paneer with the sauce and vegetables. Cook for another 2 minutes on medium heat to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped spring onions over the dish. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Tips & Variations

For the perfect crispy paneer, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. Too low heat results in soggy paneer, while too high heat can burn the batter.

If you prefer a vegan option, substitute paneer with firm tofu and use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free cooking.

Try adding chopped cashews or peanuts for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.

You can adjust the spice level by varying the amount of green chilies and chili sauce. For a sweeter twist, add a teaspoon of honey or sugar to balance the heat.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Cheena Paneer pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a comforting meal. You can also serve it alongside Hakka noodles or vegetable chow mein to keep with the Indo-Chinese theme.

For a lighter option, serve it with a side of fresh cucumber salad or a simple green salad tossed with lemon juice and olive oil. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh spring onions or coriander for an extra burst of freshness!

Conclusion

Cheena Paneer is a fantastic dish that brings together the best of Indian and Chinese flavors in a vegetarian-friendly recipe. Its crispy paneer cubes enveloped in a tangy, spicy sauce make it a perfect meal for any occasion.

This recipe is not only easy to follow but also adaptable to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting guests, this Cheena Paneer will surely delight everyone at the table. Don’t forget to check out other exciting recipes like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe, Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe, and Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe to expand your culinary repertoire.

Happy cooking!

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