Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of paneer with our extensive collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes. Paneer, also known as Indian cheese, is a staple ingredient in many popular dishes across India and beyond. Its mild flavor and versatility make it an ideal addition to various curries, sandwiches, and snacks. From classic comfort food to innovative twists on traditional recipes, we’ve got you covered with our carefully curated list of creamy paneer recipes.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next party, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get creative with paneer, and treat yourself to a world of flavors!
Paneer Butter Masala
Paneer Butter Masala is a rich and creamy Indian dish that combines the flavors of butter, cream, and spices with soft paneer (Indian cheese). This comforting recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cardamom; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add paneer and cook until it’s lightly browned.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes and heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Paneer
Palak Paneer is a popular Indian dish that combines the creaminess of spinach puree with the richness of paneer (Indian cheese). This recipe yields a smooth, flavorful curry that’s perfect for serving over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup paneer cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add garlic, cumin, and garam masala; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted (2-3 minutes). Let cool.
4. Blend cooked spinach mixture with heavy cream or half-and-half to form a smooth puree.
5. In the same pan, add paneer cubes and cook until lightly browned (2-3 minutes).
6. Stir in the spinach puree and season with salt to taste.
7. Simmer for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Tikka Masala
A popular Indian dish that combines tender paneer (Indian cheese) with rich and creamy tomato sauce, spices, and herbs. This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup paneer, cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon garlic paste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato puree
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate paneer cubes in yogurt mixture for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill or bake paneer until golden brown.
3. Heat oil in a pan, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato puree, cumin powder, coriander powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
6. Add grilled paneer to the sauce and stir gently.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Paneer Bhurji
A popular breakfast or brunch option in India, Paneer Bhurji is a flavorful and spicy omelette made with paneer (Indian cheese), vegetables, and spices. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a morning pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, crumbled
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small tomato, diced
– 1 green chili, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat one tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, tomato, and green chili. Cook until the vegetables are soft.
4. Add the crumbled paneer and stir well to combine with the vegetable mixture.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Pour in the remaining tablespoon of oil and let it cook for another minute or until the paneer is lightly browned.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Kadai Paneer
A popular North Indian dish, Kadai Paneer is a flavorful and creamy tomato-based curry made with paneer (Indian cheese), bell peppers, onions, and spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into cubes
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups tomato puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and bell peppers; cook until they start browning (5 minutes).
3. Add garlic, ginger paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to combine.
5. Pour in tomato puree and heavy cream; stir well.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Paneer Jalfrezi
Paneer Jalfrezi is a popular Indian recipe that combines the creaminess of paneer (Indian cheese) with the spicy kick of chili peppers. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2-3 green chilies, slit
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until they start to brown.
2. Add green chilies, ginger paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add paneer cubes and stir well. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until the paneer is coated with the spice mixture.
4. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Do Pyaza
This classic Paneer Do Pyaza recipe is a popular North Indian dish that combines the richness of paneer (Indian cheese) with the bold flavors of onions, garlic, ginger, and spices. With its creamy sauce and tender paneer cubes, it’s a treat for the senses.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 large onions, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon amchur powder (dried mango powder)
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and sauté until they start browning.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, garam masala, amchur, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add paneer cubes and stir well.
5. Pour in heavy cream and adjust seasoning with salt.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Paneer Pasanda
Paneer Pasanda is a popular North Indian dish that combines the creaminess of paneer with the richness of nuts and spices. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 250 gm paneer, cut into small cubes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon ghee
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (almonds or pistachios)
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat ghee in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add paneer cubes and sauté until golden brown.
4. Add heavy cream, butter, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Stir in chopped nuts and garnish with fresh cilantro.
7. Serve warm over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Paneer Lababdar
Paneer Lababdar is a rich and flavorful Indian dish that originated from the Punjab region. This recipe is a comforting blend of soft paneer (Indian cheese), spices, and creamy tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer cubes
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 can (400ml) tomato puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until they turn golden brown.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and cumin-coriander powders. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add tomato puree and stir well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add paneer cubes and heavy cream. Stir gently to combine.
5. Simmer the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the paneer is fully coated with the sauce.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Makhani
This popular North Indian recipe is a staple of many restaurants, but can be easily made at home. Paneer Makhani is a rich and creamy dish that combines tender paneer (Indian cheese) with a flavorful tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer cubes
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 250ml heavy cream
– 125ml tomato puree
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until golden.
2. Add garlic, cumin seeds, coriander powder, garam masala, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add paneer cubes and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Stir in tomato puree, heavy cream, salt, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Kolhapuri
This popular Maharashtrian dish from Kolhapur is a flavorful and spicy curry that pairs perfectly with steaming hot rice or roti. The combination of paneer, spices, and tomatoes creates a rich and creamy sauce that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté onions until golden brown.
2. Add garlic, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add diced tomatoes and salt. Mix well and cook for 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Add paneer cubes and mix gently to combine with the curry sauce.
5. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the paneer is fully coated with the sauce.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Chilli
Paneer Chilli is a popular Indian dish that combines the creamy texture of paneer (Indian cheese) with the bold flavors of chillies and spices. This recipe is a simple and flavorful take on this classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3-4 green chillies, chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– 1 tablespoon tomato puree
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté the onions until they are translucent.
2. Add the green chillies, garlic, ginger paste, and cumin powder. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the paneer cubes and cook until they are lightly browned.
4. Add the tomato puree, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
5. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the paneer is fully coated with the sauce.
6. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Tikka
Transform humble paneer into a flavorful and aromatic treat with this simple recipe. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, Paneer Tikka is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add salt to taste.
2. Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
4. Remove the paneer from the refrigerator and thread onto skewers (if using). Brush with vegetable oil.
5. Cook the Paneer Tikka for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or raita.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Paneer Kathi Roll
A popular Indian street food, Paneer Kathi Rolls are a delicious fusion of flavors and textures. This recipe wraps tender paneer (Indian cheese) in a crispy paratha with an aromatic spice blend.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, crumbled
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
– 2-3 chapatis or parathas
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat butter/ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
2. Add garlic, ginger paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add crumbled paneer and stir to combine. Season with salt.
4. Warm chapatis or parathas by wrapping them in a damp cloth and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Place a portion of the paneer mixture onto a warmed chapati, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Fold the chapati into a roll shape and serve hot with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Biryani
This recipe combines the richness of paneer (Indian cheese) with the flavors and aromas of a traditional biryani. The result is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup paneer, diced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
3. Add cumin seeds and coriander powder; stir for 30 seconds.
4. Add paneer and salt; stir well.
5. Combine cooked rice with the paneer mixture and mix well.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Sandwich
A flavorful and satisfying sandwich filled with creamy paneer (Indian cheese), perfect for a quick lunch or snack. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– Lettuce leaves and tomato slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cumin powder. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Crumbling the paneer into small pieces, add it to the pan and stir well.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Toast the bread slices.
7. Assemble the sandwich by spreading the paneer mixture on two slices of toasted bread, then top with lettuce and tomato (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Paneer Paratha
Paneer Paratha is a popular Indian flatbread stuffed with crumbly paneer (Indian cheese) and spices, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. This recipe yields a deliciously flaky and flavorful paratha that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 1/2 cup paneer, crumbled
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 green chili, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
Instructions:
1. Mix flour and salt in a bowl.
2. Add ghee or oil and mix until the dough forms.
3. Knead for 5 minutes and rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide into 6 equal portions.
5. Roll out each portion to a thin circle.
6. Place 1-2 tablespoons of paneer mixture in the center.
7. Fold and seal the edges, forming a triangle or square shape.
8. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30-40 seconds on each side.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes per paratha
Paneer Pakora
Paneer pakoras are a popular Indian snack or appetizer made by batter-frying paneer (Indian cheese) into crispy, flavorful fritters. This recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped cilantro or mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add lukewarm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a thick batter forms.
3. Dip each paneer cube into the batter, coating it evenly.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Fry the coated paneer cubes for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove the pakoras from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve hot with a sprinkle of cilantro or mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paneer Cutlet
These flavorful cutlets are made with paneer (Indian cheese), breadcrumbs, and spices, then pan-fried to a crispy golden brown. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, crumbled
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine paneer, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, ginger paste, and cumin powder. Mix well.
2. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired cutlet size. Shape each portion into a patty.
3. Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook cutlets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or ketchup.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Paneer Korma
Savor the rich flavors of North Indian cuisine with this velvety paneer korma recipe, perfect for a comforting dinner or special occasion. This creamy tomato-based curry is infused with aromatic spices and tender paneer (Indian cheese) cubes.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp garam masala 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 golden brown.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and salt. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add paneer cubes and cook until coated with the sauce (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich and creamy world of paneer! This versatile Indian cheese can be used in a variety of dishes, from curries to sandwiches. In this article, we’ve gathered 20 mouthwatering paneer recipes for every occasion. From classic Butter Masala to spicy Jalfrezi, and from comforting Bhurji to flavorful Tikka Masala, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special celebration dish, these creamy paneer recipes are sure to impress.
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