Chilli Paneer Recipe

If you’re a fan of Indo-Chinese cuisine, there’s no way you haven’t heard of Chilli Paneer. It’s spicy, tangy, and packed with flavors that hit all the right notes. This beloved dish is a staple in Indian restaurants, and the good news? It’s super easy to recreate at home—whether you like it dry as an appetizer or with gravy for a main course.

🧀 What is Chilli Paneer?

Chilli Paneer is a fusion dish made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese), bell peppers, onions, and a variety of sauces like soy, chili, and vinegar. The paneer is typically coated and fried until crispy, then tossed in a flavorful stir-fry sauce.

You’ll often find two versions:

• Dry Chilli Paneer – served as a starter or appetizer.
• Chilli Paneer Gravy – saucier and served with fried rice or noodles.

📝 Ingredients

For the Paneer:

• 250g paneer, cubed
• 3 tbsp cornflour
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (maida)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water (to make a batter)
• Oil for frying

For the Sauce:

• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 tbsp chopped garlic
• 1-inch ginger, finely chopped
• 2-3 green chilies, slit
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 capsicum (bell pepper), diced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp red chili sauce (adjust to spice preference)
• 1 tbsp tomato ketchup
• 1 tsp vinegar
• 1 tsp cornflour mixed in ¼ cup water (for gravy version)
• Salt to taste
• Spring onions for garnish

🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Fry the Paneer

1. In a bowl, mix cornflour, maida, salt, pepper, and enough water to make a thick batter.
2. Dip the paneer cubes into the batter and coat well.
3. Shallow or deep fry the paneer pieces until golden and crisp. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a pan or wok, heat 1 tbsp oil.
2. Add chopped garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for a minute.
3. Add onions and bell peppers; stir-fry on high flame for 2-3 minutes to keep them crunchy.
4. Add soy sauce, chili sauce, tomato ketchup, vinegar, and salt. Mix well.

Step 3: Combine

• For Dry : Add the fried paneer cubes directly to the pan and toss everything well until coated. Garnish with chopped spring onions and serve hot.
• For Gravy Version: Add the cornflour slurry and a bit more water. Cook until the sauce thickens. Then add paneer, toss to coat, and simmer for 2 minutes before serving.

🍚 What to Serve with Chilli Paneer

• Dry Version: Enjoy it as a starter or snack.
• Gravy Version: Pairs wonderfully with Veg Fried Rice, Hakka Noodles, or even steamed jasmine rice.

👩‍🍳 Tips for the Best

• Use firm paneer so it doesn’t crumble while frying.
• Stir-fry on high heat for that authentic smoky flavor.
• Adjust sauces and spice levels to suit your taste.
• For a healthier version, you can air-fry or bake the paneer instead of deep frying.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 30 minutes
• Perfect for parties or weeknight meals
• Easily customizable (make it spicier, add more veggies, or go full vegan with tofu!)

Recipes you may like

Aachari Paneer

Paneer Toast