Paneer Recipes: Easy and Delicious Ways to Cook Paneer

Paneer! Just saying the word makes my mouth water. This versatile cheese is a true star of Indian cuisine, and for good reason. It’s firm, yet soaks up flavour like a sponge, making it perfect for frying, grilling, baking, and everything in between. Plus, it’s a great source of protein, so you can feel good about indulging in all those delicious dishes.

Growing up in a household where paneer was a regular fixture, I’ve experienced the magic this cheese can create. From my mum’s simple yet comforting Paneer Butter Masala to the more elaborate Malai Kofta, I’ve always been fascinated by the endless possibilities paneer offers. And you know what? I’ve even tried my hand at whipping up some paneer dishes myself. Some were hits, others… well, let’s just say I learned a valuable lesson or two about the importance of following a recipe!

Today, I want to share my love for paneer with you. I’m going to guide you through some of the easiest and most delicious paneer recipes I’ve come across. We’ll explore classic Indian dishes, experiment with modern twists, and hopefully, inspire you to get creative in the kitchen too. So, grab your aprons, let’s get cooking!

(Part 1) The Essential Paneer: Getting Started

Before we dive into specific recipes, let’s talk about the foundation of it all: the paneer itself. You can definitely buy paneer at your local Indian supermarket or grocery store, but there's something truly satisfying about making it from scratch. It's a surprisingly simple process that requires minimal ingredients and even less effort. And let me tell you, the taste of homemade paneer is something else.

Making Paneer at Home

I used to think making paneer was a complicated affair, but trust me, it’s easier than you think! You only need full-fat milk, lemon juice, and a cheesecloth (or muslin cloth). Here's the basic breakdown:

• Bring the milk to a rolling boil. You want it bubbling furiously.
• Add the lemon juice gradually, stirring constantly. The milk will curdle and separate, forming clumps.
• Strain the mixture through the cheesecloth, allowing the whey (the watery liquid) to drain into a bowl.
• Tie the cheesecloth into a bundle and hang it over a bowl or sink for a few hours to remove any remaining moisture.
• Once it's firm enough to hold its shape, you've got yourself homemade paneer!

You’ll find countless recipes online with variations in the milk type, lemon juice amount, and even the addition of vinegar or salt. Play around and see what works best for you. It’s all about finding that perfect balance of firmness and flavour.

Storing Your Paneer

Once your homemade paneer is ready, it’s important to store it properly. The best way is to submerge it in cold water in an airtight container. This keeps it moist and prevents it from drying out. It can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze paneer for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it well in cling film or aluminium foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

(Part 2) Mastering the Basics: Simple Paneer Recipes for Beginners

Now that you've got the paneer sorted, let's start with some easy-to-make recipes that are perfect for beginners. These dishes use readily available ingredients and won't overwhelm your palate. They're great for those who are just starting to explore the world of paneer or for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal.

1. Paneer Tikka

Paneer tikka is a classic Indian appetizer that's a real crowd-pleaser. It's all about marinating cubes of paneer in a fragrant blend of spices and yogurt, then grilling or baking them until they’re tender and slightly charred.

The marinade is what elevates this dish to another level. A typical marinade includes a mix of garam masala, turmeric, ginger-garlic paste, and chilli powder. You can add your own unique touch by incorporating other spices like cumin, coriander, or even a touch of paprika. The yogurt helps to keep the paneer moist and tender.

I personally love to serve my paneer tikka with a side of mint chutney. The cool and refreshing mint balances out the heat of the spices beautifully. You can also dip it in a creamy raita or a tangy tamarind chutney.

Here's a simple recipe for Paneer Tikka:

Ingredients:

• 1 block paneer, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

• Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
• Marinate the paneer for at least 30 minutes, or better yet, overnight.
• Thread the paneer cubes onto skewers.
• Grill or bake the skewers until the paneer is tender and slightly charred.
• Serve hot with your favourite chutney or raita.

2. Saag Paneer

Saag Paneer is a staple in many Indian households. It features tender cubes of paneer simmered in a rich, creamy spinach and cream sauce. The earthy flavour of the spinach complements the mildness of the paneer perfectly, creating a truly comforting dish.

The key to a good saag paneer is to cook the spinach until it’s soft and velvety. This ensures a smooth and creamy sauce. To add more depth of flavour, you can also add onions, garlic, ginger, and a touch of garam masala. You can even use a blend of spinach and other greens like fenugreek or mustard leaves.

I like to serve my saag paneer with a fluffy roti or naan. The warm bread soaks up the sauce beautifully. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a special occasion.

Here's a simple recipe for Saag Paneer:

Ingredients:

• 1 block paneer, cut into cubes
• 1 bunch spinach, washed and chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste
• Oil for cooking

Instructions:

• In a pan, heat oil and sauté onions until translucent.
• Add garlic and ginger, and sauté for a minute.
• Add the spinach and cook until it wilts and becomes soft.
• Puree the spinach mixture until smooth.
• Add the paneer cubes, garam masala, and salt to the spinach puree.
• Stir well and cook for a few minutes, until the paneer is heated through.
• Add the cream and cook for another minute.
• Serve hot with roti or naan.

(Part 3) Beyond the Basics: Exploring More Complex Paneer Dishes

Once you've mastered the basics, it's time to move on to some more elaborate dishes. These recipes might require a little more time and effort, but trust me, the results are well worth it. They'll impress your friends and family, and give you a chance to really showcase your culinary skills.

1. Palak Paneer

Palak paneer is a close relative of Saag paneer, but it uses pureed spinach to create a thicker and creamier sauce. This dish is bursting with flavour and texture. The richness of the cream and the tangy notes of the tomatoes balance out the earthy flavour of the spinach. It's a truly satisfying dish that will leave you wanting more.

The secret to a perfect palak paneer is to make sure the spinach is cooked down to a fine paste. This gives the sauce a velvety texture and a vibrant green colour. Traditionally, this dish is made with a combination of cream and butter, but you can use other dairy alternatives if you prefer.

My favourite way to enjoy palak paneer is with a side of basmati rice. The fluffy rice contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. A dollop of yoghurt on top adds a fresh and tangy note to the dish.

Here's a recipe for Palak Paneer:

Ingredients:

• 1 block paneer, cut into cubes
• 1 bunch spinach, washed and chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt to taste
• Oil for cooking

Instructions:

• In a pan, heat oil and sauté onions until translucent.
• Add garlic and ginger, and sauté for a minute.
• Add the spinach and cook until it wilts and becomes soft.
• Puree the spinach mixture until smooth.
• In the same pan, melt butter and sauté the tomatoes until they soften.
• Add the spinach puree, paneer cubes, garam masala, and salt.
• Stir well and cook for a few minutes, until the paneer is heated through.
• Add the cream and cook for another minute.
• Serve hot with basmati rice and a dollop of yoghurt.

2. Paneer Butter Masala

Paneer Butter Masala is a truly iconic Indian dish. It features cubes of paneer simmered in a rich, creamy, and slightly sweet tomato-based sauce, infused with aromatic spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. It’s a dish that's both comforting and indulgent. It’s the kind of dish that will warm your heart and soul.

The key to a good paneer butter masala is the sauce. It should be creamy, flavourful, and slightly tangy. The richness of the butter and the sweetness of the tomatoes are balanced out by the heat of the spices and the tanginess of the lemon juice.

I love to serve my paneer butter masala with a side of rice or a fluffy naan. The warm bread soaks up the sauce beautifully. A dollop of yoghurt on top adds a refreshing and tangy note to the dish.

Here's a recipe for Paneer Butter Masala:

Ingredients:

• 1 block paneer, cut into cubes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 cup tomato puree
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• Oil for cooking

Instructions:

• In a pan, heat oil and sauté onions until translucent.
• Add garlic and ginger, and sauté for a minute.
• Add red chilli powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala. Sauté for a minute.
• Add the tomato puree and cook until it thickens.
• Add the paneer cubes and cook for a few minutes, until they are heated through.
• Add the cream, butter, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well and cook for another minute.
• Season with salt to taste.
• Serve hot with rice or naan and a dollop of yoghurt.

3. Malai Kofta

Malai Kofta is a vegetarian delicacy that’s perfect for a special occasion. It features soft, melt-in-your-mouth paneer koftas (deep-fried balls) nestled in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce. It’s a truly decadent dish that’s sure to impress. It’s a dish that screams “celebration”!

The koftas are made with a mixture of grated paneer, potatoes, and spices. They are then dipped in a batter and deep-fried until golden brown. The sauce is a blend of tomatoes, onions, cashews, and spices, which gives it a rich and creamy texture. The combination of the soft koftas and the creamy sauce is simply divine.

Malai Kofta is a perfect example of how paneer can be used to create truly spectacular dishes. It’s a dish that’s both visually appealing and incredibly delicious. I recommend serving it with a side of rice or naan for a truly satisfying meal.

Here's a recipe for Malai Kofta:

Ingredients:

For the Kofta:

• 1 block paneer, grated
• 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/4 teaspoon red chilli powder
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves
• Salt to taste
• Oil for deep frying

For the Sauce:

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder
• 1/4 cup tomato puree
• 1/4 cup cashew paste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt to taste
• Oil for cooking

Instructions:

• To make the koftas: Combine the grated paneer, mashed potatoes, garam masala, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, coriander leaves, and salt. Mix well and form into small balls.
• Dip the koftas in a batter of flour and water and deep fry them until golden brown.
• To make the sauce: In a pan, heat oil and sauté onions until translucent. Add garlic and ginger, and sauté for a minute. Add garam masala, red chilli powder, and tomato puree. Cook until it thickens.
• Add the cashew paste and cook for a few minutes. Then, add the cream and butter. Stir well and cook for another minute.
• Season with salt to taste. Add the fried koftas to the sauce and simmer for a few minutes.
• Serve hot with rice or naan.

(Part 4) Getting Creative: Beyond Traditional Recipes

Now, don't be afraid to step outside the box. Paneer is such a versatile ingredient that you can experiment with different flavours and cuisines. It’s a great canvas for your culinary creativity. Let's explore some exciting fusion and modern twists on the classic paneer dish.

1. Mexican Paneer Quesadillas

Who says paneer can't be enjoyed in Mexican cuisine? I love incorporating paneer into my quesadillas. It adds a nice, cheesy and slightly tangy flavour that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Simply grill or pan-fry some paneer cubes with onions, bell peppers, and your favourite Mexican spices. Then, layer them on a tortilla with salsa, guacamole, and cheese. Fold it in half, grill or pan-fry it until crispy, and you’re good to go. It’s a delicious and satisfying fusion that will please everyone.

2. Paneer and broccoli stir-fry

This is a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The combination of paneer and broccoli is a match made in heaven. The paneer adds a creamy texture and a bit of protein, while the broccoli adds a healthy crunch and a subtle sweetness. It’s a delicious and healthy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Simply stir-fry the paneer and broccoli with your favourite vegetables like carrots, onions, and peppers. Add some soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a pinch of chilli flakes for flavour. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

3. Paneer Salad

Let’s not forget about salads! Paneer is a great addition to any salad. It adds a satisfying texture and a bit of protein. You can toss it with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and your favourite dressing.

I love to make a paneer salad with a honey mustard dressing or a balsamic vinaigrette. You can even add a few toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch. It’s a light and refreshing meal that’s perfect for summer.

(Part 5) Paneer for Every Occasion

One of the things I love about paneer is its versatility. It’s not just for elaborate Indian meals; it can be incorporated into almost any dish. From breakfast to dinner, appetizers to desserts, the possibilities are endless. Let's explore some exciting ways to enjoy paneer throughout the day.

1. Breakfast Burrito with Paneer

Kickstart your day with a hearty and flavourful breakfast burrito. The combination of paneer, scrambled eggs, and vegetables makes for a satisfying and nutritious meal. You can add your favourite toppings like salsa, avocado, and sour cream. It’s a great way to add a touch of Indian flavour to your morning routine.

2. Paneer Pizza

Pizza night just got an exciting upgrade! Paneer adds a unique twist to your favourite pizza. It’s delicious with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and your favourite toppings. You can even try a paneer and spinach pizza or a paneer and mushroom pizza.

3. Paneer Paratha

Parathas are a popular Indian flatbread, and adding paneer takes them to another level. The paneer filling adds a cheesy and flavourful twist to the traditional paratha. You can enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with a dollop of yoghurt or a chutney.

(Part 6) Tips for Cooking Paneer

Now that you've got a few recipes under your belt, here are some tips to help you elevate your paneer game. These are some tricks I've learned over the years, both from my mum and from my own experimentation.

• Don't overcook the paneer. Overcooked paneer can become dry and crumbly. Cook it just until it's heated through.
• Use good quality paneer. The quality of your paneer will affect the final taste of your dish. Choose paneer that is firm and not overly salty.
• Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and flavours. Paneer is a blank canvas, so have fun with it!
• Pair it with complementary flavours. The mildness of paneer means it pairs well with a variety of spices and flavours. Think earthy, tangy, sweet, or spicy.
• Don't be afraid to get creative with textures. Crumble it into salads, grill it for kebabs, or even add it to your favourite pasta dishes.

(Part 7) FAQs

Let’s clear up some common questions you might have about paneer.

1. How do I know if paneer is fresh?

Fresh paneer should be firm to the touch, have a slightly creamy white colour, and smell slightly tangy. Avoid paneer that is soft, has a yellow tinge, or smells sour.

2. Can I freeze paneer?

Yes, you can freeze paneer. Wrap it tightly in cling film or aluminium foil to prevent freezer burn. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.

3. Can I use other types of cheese instead of paneer?

While paneer is unique in its texture and flavour, you can use other firm cheeses as substitutes. Halloumi, feta, or ricotta are good options, but keep in mind that the taste and texture will be different.

4. Is paneer healthy?

Paneer is a good source of protein and calcium. It is also low in carbohydrates and fat. However, it’s important to remember that paneer is often cooked in dishes that are high in fat and calories. So, moderation is key.

5. What are some other paneer recipes I can try?

There are endless possibilities! You can try paneer recipes from different regions of India, like Paneer Makhani, Chana Paneer, or Matar Paneer. You can also experiment with fusion recipes like Paneer Tikka Masala, Paneer Curry with Coconut Milk, or Paneer with Tomato Basil Sauce.

(Part 8) Final Thoughts

So there you have it! I hope you’re feeling inspired to get cooking with paneer. It’s a truly versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Don’t be afraid to experiment, and most importantly, have fun!

Remember, the best way to learn about paneer is to just try it. So, what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and start creating your own delicious paneer dishes. Happy cooking!