Discover the rich and creamy world of Indian cuisine with these 20 delicious paneer recipes! Paneer, a type of cheese originating from India, is a staple ingredient in many popular dishes. With its unique texture and mild flavor, it’s no wonder why paneer has become a favorite among foodies worldwide.
From spicy curries to creamy sauces, paneer is the perfect canvas for any culinary creation. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve at your next gathering, these 20 mouth-watering recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. So, let’s dive into the world of Indian cuisine and explore the many faces of paneer!
Paneer Butter Masala
A rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish that combines the smoothness of paneer with the richness of butter and a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cumin, coriander, and garam masala powders. Cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add the paneer cubes and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Paneer
Palak Paneer, a popular Indian dish, combines the richness of paneer (Indian cheese) with the creamy goodness of spinach. This recipe is a simple and flavorful take on this classic curry.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 250ml water
– 50g heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine spinach, onion, garlic, and 1/4 cup water. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin, coriander, and garam masala powder. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the blended spinach mixture to the pan. Stir well.
4. Add paneer cubes and salt. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is coated in the curry sauce.
5. If using heavy cream, stir it in just before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Tikka Masala
A classic Indian dish that combines tender paneer (Indian cheese) with a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce, served with basmati rice or naan bread. This recipe is a flavorful and comforting treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tsp garam masala powder
– 1 tsp cumin powder
– 1 tsp coriander powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate paneer cubes in yogurt mixture (yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper) for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill or bake marinated paneer until golden brown.
3. In a large pan, sauté onions and garlic until softened. Add diced tomatoes and cook until they break down.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and let it thicken slightly.
5. Add cooked paneer cubes to the sauce and stir gently. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over basmati rice or naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Shahi Paneer
A rich and creamy Indian dish, Shahi Paneer is a popular variation of paneer (Indian cheese) cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This recipe makes for a delicious main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer cubes
– 2 large onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (400ml) chopped tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– 1 tsp cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until they start browning.
2. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, garam masala powder, cumin powder, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Add the paneer cubes and stir gently to combine.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the paneer is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Bhurji
A popular Indian breakfast dish, Paneer Bhurji is a flavorful and creamy scrambled paneer (Indian cheese) with onions, tomatoes, and spices. This recipe serves 2-3 people.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), crumbled
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter or oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the crumbled paneer, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well.
5. Cook for about 5-6 minutes or until the paneer is scrambled and heated through.
6. Add the diced tomatoes and mix well.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kadai Paneer
This popular Punjabi dish is a creamy, spicy delight that combines tender paneer (Indian cheese) with a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Kadai paneer is typically cooked in a wok-like pan called a “kadai,” which gives the dish its signature smoky flavor.
Ingredients:
– 250 gm paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or kadai over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they start to brown (3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic and ginger paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add paneer cubes and cook until lightly browned (2-3 minutes).
5. Add diced tomatoes, chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.
6. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until sauce thickens.
8. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Jalfrezi
A popular Indian dish that combines the creamy texture of paneer (Indian cheese) with the spicy kick of jalfrezi, this recipe is a must-try for those who love a good balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cubed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 tablespoon jalfrezi paste (or more, to taste)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
2. Add onions and cook until they are translucent.
3. Add garlic, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add paneer cubes and cook until they are lightly browned.
5. Add tomatoes and jalfrezi paste. Stir well to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Paneer Do Pyaza
Paneer Do Pyaza is a popular Indian recipe that combines the creamy goodness of paneer (Indian cheese) with aromatic spices and vegetables. This dish is perfect for a comforting meal or as an accompaniment to naan, rice, or roti.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer cubes
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add onions and sauté until they’re lightly browned (about 5 minutes).
4. Add tomatoes, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Stir well.
5. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to combine with the sauce.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the paneer is fully coated in the sauce.
7. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Pasanda
Paneer Pasanda is a popular Indian recipe that combines the creaminess of paneer (Indian cheese) with the spices and flavors of a rich, creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for special occasions or as a unique dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer cubes
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the onion until golden brown.
2. Add garlic, ginger paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the paneer cubes and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides.
4. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Lababdar
Paneer Lababdar is a popular Indian dish that combines the creaminess of tomatoes with the tenderness of paneer (Indian cheese). This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a staple in many Indian households.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and sugar to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onions are translucent.
2. Add paneer cubes and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they start to brown.
3. Pour in crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, salt, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot over basmati rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Paneer Chilli
Paneer Chilli is a popular Indian dish that combines the creamy texture of paneer (Indian cheese) with the bold flavors of chili peppers. This recipe is an easy-to-make adaptation of this classic dish, perfect for those who love spicy food.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 green chili pepper, sliced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until they start browning.
2. Add garlic, bell pepper, and green chili pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add paneer cubes, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the paneer is coated in the spicy sauce.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Makhani
Paneer Makhani is a popular North Indian dish that combines the creaminess of tomatoes and spices with the softness of paneer (Indian cheese). This recipe is a simplified version of the classic, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
2. Add onions, garlic, and tomatoes. Cook until the mixture is soft and fragrant.
3. Add paneer, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir gently.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Paneer Korma
A rich and creamy Indian dish made with paneer (Indian cheese), nuts, and spices, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 250ml heavy cream
– 25g chopped almonds or cashews
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat ghee or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add paneer cubes and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Stir in chopped nuts and season with salt.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over basmati rice or naan.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Handi
Paneer Handi is a popular Indian dish that is rich, creamy, and utterly delicious. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional North Indian recipe that uses paneer (Indian cheese) in a flavorful tomato-based gravy.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 250ml heavy cream
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add onions, garlic, and tomato. Cook until the mixture is soft and mushy.
4. Add coriander powder, garam masala powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add paneer cubes and stir gently.
6. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Season with salt to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Paneer Matar
This rich and creamy curry is a popular Indian dish that combines the flavors of paneer (Indian cheese), peas, and spices. With its velvety texture and subtle sweetness, Paneer Matar is a perfect accompaniment to naan, rice, or roti.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 tablespoons cream
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
2. Add onions, garlic, and cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Add peas, salt, and garam masala powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the peas are tender.
4. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to combine with the pea mixture.
5. Stir in butter and cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Serve hot garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Kofta Curry
Savor the rich flavors of this popular North Indian dish, featuring tender paneer koftas in a velvety tomato-based curry.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), crumbled
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp cumin powder
– 1 tsp coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups water
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix crumbled paneer with onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt.
3. Shape into small koftas and fry in hot oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced tomatoes, water, and cooked koftas. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Paneer Tikka
Transform plain paneer into a flavorful and aromatic delight with this simple Paneer Tikka recipe. Marinated in a blend of spices, yogurt, and lemon juice, the paneer absorbs all the flavors to become a perfect accompaniment to naan, rice, or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 250 gm paneer (Indian cheese), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tsp ginger paste
– 1 tsp garlic paste
– 1 tsp cumin powder
– 1 tsp coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt.
2. Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat a non-stick pan or grill over medium heat. Remove the paneer from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
4. Cook the paneer for 2-3 minutes on each side, until lightly browned and tender. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Paneer Kathi Roll
A popular Indian street food, Paneer Kathi Roll is a flavorful and filling snack that combines tender paneer (Indian cheese) with spices and herbs, wrapped in a crispy flour tortilla. This recipe brings the authentic taste of India to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 200g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 4-6 flour tortillas (kathis)
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
2. Add paneer, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the paneer is lightly browned.
4. Warm the flour tortillas by wrapping them in a damp cloth and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble the rolls by placing the paneer mixture onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a neat cylinder.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including preparation time)
Paneer Biryani
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish, Paneer Biryani is a popular Indian recipe that combines the richness of paneer (Indian cheese) with the spices and aroma of basmati rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup grated paneer (Indian cheese)
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon fennel powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion, coriander powder, fennel powder, and salt. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add grated paneer and stir well.
5. Drain the rice and add it to the pan. Mix well with the paneer mixture.
6. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Paneer Pakora
Paneer Pakora is a popular Indian snack that combines the creamy goodness of paneer (Indian cheese) with the crunchiness of fried fritters. This recipe yields a delicious and addictive treat that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup paneer cubes
– 1/2 cup gram flour
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon amchur powder (dried mango powder)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped cilantro or mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together gram flour, cumin powder, coriander powder, amchur powder, and salt.
2. Add the paneer cubes to the mixture and coat them evenly.
3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. When the oil is hot, add the coated paneer cubes in batches and fry until golden brown.
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm with chutney or raita.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich and creamy world of paneer! This article brings you 20 mouth-watering paneer recipes with an Indian twist. From classic dishes like Palak Paneer and Shahi Paneer to spicy treats like Kadai Paneer and Paneer Jalfrezi, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover the art of cooking paneer in a variety of ways – marinated, grilled, or sauced. Explore the rich flavors of butter masala, tikka masala, and more. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for new recipes to try, this collection is sure to tantalize your taste buds!
