Chilli Paneer is a beloved Indo-Chinese dish that perfectly blends the vibrant flavors of Indian spices with the bold zest of Chinese cooking. This iconic vegetarian recipe is a staple in Indian households and restaurants alike, loved for its spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet profile that makes it an irresistible appetizer or main course.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, chilli paneer offers a wonderful way to explore fusion cuisine with simple ingredients and straightforward techniques.
The dish features paneer – a fresh Indian cheese – tossed in a fiery sauce made with green chilies, bell peppers, and soy sauce, delivering a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite. In this post, we’ll explore multiple chilli paneer veg recipes from across India, showcasing variations that highlight regional tastes and cooking styles.
Ready to spice up your meal times? Let’s dive into these mouthwatering chilli paneer recipes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chilli paneer is an ultimate crowd-pleaser because it’s packed with bold flavors and textures. The crispy paneer cubes coated in a tangy, spicy sauce make every bite a delightful experience.
It’s also a great source of protein for vegetarians and can be easily customized to suit your heat preference.
Another great thing about chilli paneer is its versatility. It can be served as a starter, a side dish, or paired with fried rice or noodles for a fulfilling meal.
Plus, it comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
Whether you prefer a dry, semi-gravy, or saucy version, this recipe guide will help you master all those variations with ease.
Ingredients
- 250 grams paneer (cubed)
- 2 tbsp cornflour
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (maida)
- 1 medium onion (sliced)
- 1 medium green bell pepper (sliced)
- 4-5 green chilies (slit)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato ketchup
- 1 tbsp chili sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp black pepper powder
- 2-3 spring onions (chopped for garnish)
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying and cooking
- Water as needed to make batter and sauce
Equipment
- Deep frying pan or wok
- Mixing bowls
- Slotted spoon
- Knife and chopping board
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Serving plate
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: In a bowl, mix cornflour, all-purpose flour, a pinch of salt, and water to make a smooth batter of medium consistency. It should be thick enough to coat the paneer cubes.
- Coat and fry paneer: Dip the paneer cubes into the batter ensuring they are well coated. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat and fry the paneer cubes until golden and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Sauté vegetables: In a separate wok or pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add sliced onions, bell peppers, and green chilies. Stir-fry on high flame for 2-3 minutes to keep them crunchy.
- Add sauces and spices: Lower the heat and add soy sauce, tomato ketchup, chili sauce, red chili powder, black pepper powder, and salt. Mix well and cook the sauce for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Toss fried paneer in sauce: Add the fried paneer cubes to the pan and toss gently so the sauce coats the paneer evenly. Cook for another 2 minutes to let the flavors blend.
- Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat. Garnish with chopped spring onions and serve hot as an appetizer or with fried rice or noodles.
Tips & Variations
For a healthier twist, try baking the paneer cubes instead of frying them. Toss in a little oil and bake at 200°C for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
You can make a gravy version by adding ½ cup water or vegetable broth after step 4, letting it simmer for a few minutes to create a saucier dish.
Experiment with veggies like shredded carrots, baby corn, or mushrooms to enhance texture and nutrition.
Adjust chili sauce and green chilies to control the heat level for milder or hotter versions.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Protein | 15 g |
Carbohydrates | 18 g |
Fat | 20 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sodium | 600 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Chilli paneer pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a wholesome vegetarian meal.
It also complements fried rice or vegetable noodles perfectly, making your meal a complete Indo-Chinese feast. For a more hearty option, enjoy chilli paneer with steamed rice or inside wraps for a fusion twist.
Looking for more protein-packed dishes? Check out the Pcos Chicken Recipes for some delicious non-vegetarian options.
More Chilli Paneer Veg Recipes of India
Dry Chilli Paneer
This version is the classic restaurant-style dry chilli paneer where the sauce is minimal, allowing the crispy paneer and crunchy veggies to shine. It’s perfect as a snack or starter.
Chilli Paneer Gravy
If you love saucy dishes, try the chilli paneer gravy recipe. It includes a flavorful tomato-based sauce with a hint of soy, perfect for pairing with steamed rice or roti.
Chilli Paneer with Bell Peppers and Onions
Adding extra bell peppers and onions not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant color contrast. This vegetable-rich version is nutritious and visually appealing.
Tandoori Chilli Paneer
For a smoky twist, marinate paneer cubes in tandoori spices before frying and tossing in the chilli sauce. This variation brings a delightful barbecue flavor.
Chilli Paneer Dry with Cashews
Add roasted cashews to the dry chilli paneer for a nutty crunch and rich taste. It’s a delightful texture contrast and makes the dish more festive.
Conclusion
Chilli paneer is a versatile and flavorful dish that perfectly captures the essence of Indo-Chinese fusion cuisine. With its blend of spicy, tangy, and savory notes, it’s no wonder this recipe is a favorite across India and beyond.
Whether you prefer it dry, saucy, or with a smoky twist, chilli paneer satisfies cravings and impresses guests with ease.
By following these recipes and tips, you can bring restaurant-quality chilli paneer right to your kitchen. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite veggies and spice levels to make it truly your own.
For more delicious and easy-to-make recipes, explore our collection such as the indulgent Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe or the comforting Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe.
Happy cooking and enjoy your chilli paneer adventure!
📖 Recipe Card: Chilli Paneer
Description: Chilli Paneer is a popular Indo-Chinese dish featuring crispy paneer cubes tossed in a spicy, tangy sauce with bell peppers and onions. It is a perfect appetizer or side dish for any meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 250 grams paneer, cubed
- 2 tablespoons cornflour
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/2 cup onions, diced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
- 2 green chilies, sliced
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Mix paneer cubes with cornflour, all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper.
- Deep fry paneer until golden and set aside.
- Heat oil in a pan and sauté ginger-garlic paste and green chilies.
- Add onions and bell peppers, cook until slightly soft.
- Add soy sauce, chili sauce, tomato ketchup, and water; stir well.
- Add fried paneer and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Serve hot as an appetizer or with fried rice.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 22 g | Carbs: 15 g
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