Easy Chilli Paneer Recipe

If you’ve been craving something that perfectly balances bold flavors, crispy textures, and a touch of spice, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Easy Chilli Paneer Recipe. It’s my go-to dish when I want a burst of vibrant colors and lip-smacking taste without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of crunchy paneer cubes tossed in a tangy, spicy sauce with fresh peppers and onions makes it absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for friends or a cozy night in, this recipe never disappoints.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple staples that pack so much flavor and texture into the dish. Each one plays a crucial role, from the soft yet crispy paneer to the spicy kick of green chillies, making this Easy Chilli Paneer Recipe truly memorable.

• 200 grams Paneer, chopped into large cubes: The star of the dish, providing a creamy, mild base with a great texture for frying.
• 2 tbsp Plain All Purpose Flour: Helps create a light coating that crisps up the paneer perfectly.
• 2 tbsp Cornstarch: Adds extra crunch to the paneer when fried.
• 6 tbsp Water: Binds the flour and cornstarch into a smooth batter.
• 1/2 tsp Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the batter and sauce.
• 1/4 cup Sunflower Oil for frying: A neutral oil with a high smoke point to crisp the paneer cubes.
• 1 Red Onion, chopped into large chunks: Adds sweetness and crunch.
• 1 Red Pepper, chopped into large chunks: Brightens the dish and brings a refreshing crunch; feel free to mix pepper colors for extra vibrancy.
• 1.5 tsp Sesame Oil: Infuses the sauce with a subtle nutty aroma.
• 3 cloves Garlic, finely chopped: Packs a punch of flavor that’s essential in any chilli dish.
• 1 thumb Ginger, finely chopped: Adds warmth and a lovely zing.
• 2 Spring Onions, sliced (reserve the green tips for garnish): Fresh texture and a mild oniony bite.
• 2 Large Tomatoes, finely diced: Provide natural sweetness and a base for the sauce.
• 2 Green Chillies, finely chopped: For that perfect heat – adjust to your spice preference.
• 1/4 tsp Ground Cumin: Earthy warmth that complements the other spices.
• 1/4 tsp Ground Coriander: Adds a citrusy depth.
• 1/4 tsp Chilli Powder: Boosts the spice level and color.
• 1/3 tsp Turmeric: Gives a gentle sheen and subtle earthiness.
• 3 tbsp Ketchup: Adds tang and sweet balance to the sauce.
• 2 tbsp Soy Sauce: Brings umami and saltiness.
• 1 tbsp Chilli Sauce: For a bold, spicy punch; add more if you love extra heat.
• 1/4 cup Water: Helps create a smooth gravy consistency.

How to Make Easy Chilli Paneer Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Batter and Coat the Paneer

Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and water in a medium bowl until you have a smooth batter. This simple batter is key to getting the paneer beautifully crispy on the outside while staying soft inside. Toss your large paneer cubes in the batter, making sure they’re lightly coated without excess dripping off. This coating is what turns your paneer into those golden, crunchy nuggets everyone loves.

Step 2: Fry the Paneer to Crispy Perfection

Heat the sunflower oil in a frying pan or wok over medium heat. Test it by dropping a tiny bit of batter in — if it sizzles right away, it’s ready. Carefully place the batter-coated paneer cubes into the hot oil one by one, using tongs to avoid splashes. Fry these for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally so every side gets that lovely golden crust. Once done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil, setting aside those crispy delights for later.

Step 3: Sauté the Peppers and Onions

Drain most of the oil from the pan, leaving just about half a tablespoon to cook the veggies. Add the chopped red peppers and onions and cook on medium heat until they are just slightly charred. This step is crucial because it brings out a smoky sweetness while maintaining a pleasant crunch that balances the soft paneer later on. Once done, set these aside in a bowl while we prepare the sumptuous sauce.

Step 4: Build the Fragrant Gravy

Add the sesame oil to the pan, then toss in the minced garlic, ginger, and chopped spring onions. Cook them until the kitchen fills with their beautiful aroma. Next, stir in the diced tomatoes and green chillies, cooking until the tomatoes start breaking down into a mushy base. Then, sprinkle in your ground cumin, coriander, chilli powder, and turmeric. Stir constantly as the spices toast just enough to bloom their flavors—the hallmark of any great masala sauce.

Step 5: Bring the Sauce Together

Pour in the ketchup, soy sauce, chilli sauce, and water, stirring everything to combine into a rich, tangy gravy. Adjust the consistency here by adding a little more water if you want a thinner sauce. Now, it’s time to reunite the dish by adding back the fried onions, peppers, and those crispy paneer cubes. Gently toss everything so the fresh, crunchy paneer gets coated in the velvety, spicy sauce.

Step 6: Final Touch and Serve

Heat everything through for a minute or two, making sure all the flavors meld beautifully and the paneer remains crisp. Before serving, sprinkle the green tips of the spring onions on top as a fresh, colorful garnish that adds a slight bite. And there you have it, your Easy Chilli Paneer Recipe is ready to wow your taste buds!

How to Serve Easy Chilli Paneer Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh spring onion greens adds a bright pop of color and a refreshing crunch that elevates this dish. You can also add a few extra finely chopped green chillies if you want to dial up the heat. A wedge of lime on the side gives a lovely tang that brightens the richness of the paneer.

Side Dishes

This dish shines when teamed with fluffy steamed jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up the flavorful gravy beautifully. For a complete meal, try serving it alongside simple stir-fried greens or a light cucumber and carrot salad to keep things fresh and balance the spice.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chilli paneer on a bed of crispy noodles or stuffed into warm wraps with a drizzle of cooling yogurt sauce. It’s also fantastic as an appetizer—skewer the paneer cubes and drizzle the sauce over them for an irresistible party bite that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (though I doubt that!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The paneer may lose a bit of its crispiness, but the flavors will stay vibrant and delicious.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, it’s not ideal for this recipe because the paneer’s texture can become rubbery after thawing. However, you can freeze the gravy separately in a sealed container and then add freshly fried paneer cubes when reheating for better texture.

Reheating

Reheat the chilli paneer gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently. This helps retain the dish’s texture and keeps the paneer from getting too soggy. You can add a splash of water or a little oil if the sauce thickens too much during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use tofu instead of paneer in this recipe?

Absolutely! Firm tofu works as a fantastic substitute if you want a vegan option. Just press it well to remove excess moisture and follow the same frying and cooking steps for a delicious result.

How spicy is this Easy Chilli Paneer Recipe?

The heat level is moderate by default, thanks to the green chillies and chilli sauce. You can easily adjust the spice by adding more or less green chillies and chilli sauce according to your taste preferences.

What can I use if I don’t have cornstarch?

If cornstarch isn’t available, you can substitute it with potato starch or rice flour for a similar crispy effect when frying the paneer.

Is it better to fry or bake the paneer?

Frying paneer in this recipe ensures a crispy exterior that is hard to beat. Baking is a healthier alternative but won’t provide the same crunch, so it’s up to your preference and dietary needs.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free (tamari is a great choice) to make this Easy Chilli Paneer Recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Easy Chilli Paneer Recipe enough if you’re looking to add a little magic to your weeknight meals. It’s straightforward to prepare with everyday ingredients, yet it delivers bold, exciting flavors that feel like a celebration on your plate. Give this recipe a go—you might just find your new favorite homemade comfort food!

Print