Restaurant-Style Easy Chilli Paneer Recipe
Chilli Paneer is a popular Indo-Chinese dish that combines the flavors of Indian spices and Chinese cooking techniques. This dish features crispy fried paneer cubes tossed in a spicy, tangy, sweet sauce.
The combination of textures and flavors makes it a delightful and satisfying meal. This recipe offers a detailed, step-by-step walkthrough to help you recreate this mouthwatering dish right in your kitchen.
Yields: 4 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the Paneer
- 1 block paneer, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
Prepare the Paneer
- In a bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the paneer cubes in the mixture to coat.
- Warm some oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the paneer cubes until they turn golden brown and crispy, then take them out of the pan and set them aside.
Make the Sauce
- In the same pan, add a little oil and heat it over medium flame.
- Toss in the ginger and garlic, sauteing for about 30 seconds until their aroma fills the air.
- Stir in onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook until softened.
- Add soy sauce, ketchup, chili sauce, sugar, and vinegar. Stir to combine.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water, whisking until the mixture becomes smooth and lump-free.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce and cook, stirring constantly until thickening.
Combine and Serve
- Return the fried paneer cubes to the pan and toss in the sauce to coat.
- Let it cook for a few minutes until thoroughly warmed.
- Serve right away alongside steamed or fried rice for the perfect pairing.
Tips for Making the Perfect Chilli Paneer
- Use Fresh Paneer: For the best flavor and texture, opt for a fresh paneer that is firm and not overly soft.
- Don’t Overcook the Paneer: Fry the paneer cubes until golden brown and crispy, but avoid overcooking them as they can become tough.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Customize the heat of the dish by adjusting the amount of chili sauce or adding more red chili flakes.
- Experiment with Different Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or zucchini to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
- Serve with your Favorite Sides: Enjoy Chilli Paneer with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Chilli Paneer is a versatile and delicious dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Following this recipe, you can easily create this popular Indo-Chinese dish in your kitchen. Experiment with different ingredients and spice levels to discover your perfect version of Chilli Paneer.
Enjoy your homemade Chilli Paneer!