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.