Paneer Pakora Recipe

Paneer Pakora Recipe

If you’re a fan of Indian snacks, Paneer Pakora is an irresistible treat that perfectly blends crispy texture with soft, creamy goodness. A beloved tea-time snack across India, paneer pakoras are cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) dipped in a seasoned gram flour (besan) batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. Served hot with green chutney or tamarind sauce, they make a quick and satisfying appetizer or party snack.

What is Paneer Pakora?

Is a North Indian snack made by coating chunks of paneer in a spiced besan batter and deep-frying them. The result is a crunchy outside with a soft, melt-in-the-mouth interior. It’s a vegetarian delight often enjoyed during rainy days, festive occasions, or simply as a cozy evening bite with chai.

Ingredients

  • 200 grams paneer, cut into cubes or rectangles
  • 1 cup gram flour (besan)
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • ½ teaspoon red chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon garam masala
  • ¼ teaspoon ajwain (carom seeds)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Water, as needed
  • Oil, for deep frying

Optional (for extra flavor):

  • 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1–2 chopped green chilies
  • Chaat masala, for sprinkling

How to Make Paneer Pakora

  1. Prepare the Batter
    In a mixing bowl, combine besan, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, ajwain, and salt. Add water gradually to make a thick, lump-free batter. It should coat the paneer pieces well without dripping.
  2. Heat the Oil
    Pour oil into a deep frying pan and heat it on medium flame. Test by dropping a little batter in – it should rise slowly and steadily.
  3. Coat the Paneer
    Dip each paneer cube into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  4. Fry Until Golden
    Carefully drop the battered paneer into the hot oil. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp on all sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  5. Serve Hot
    Sprinkle chaat masala on top and serve immediately with mint chutney or ketchup.

Tips

  • Use fresh and firm paneer to prevent it from crumbling.
  • Keep the batter thick enough to cling to the paneer.
  • You can stuff the paneer with a mint-coriander chutney for a stuffed version.
  • Fry on medium heat to ensure even cooking and avoid burning.

Variations to Try

  • Masala : Add chopped coriander, green chilies, and cumin seeds to the batter for extra flavor.
  • Paneer Sandwich Pakora: Place a mint chutney or spicy potato filling between two thin paneer slices, dip in batter, and fry.
  • Air-Fried or Baked Version: For a healthier option, try air-frying or baking the pakoras with a light spray of oil.

Paneer Pakora is more than just a snack — it’s a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself on a rainy day, these crispy fritters are sure to hit the spot. Pair them with masala chai, and you’ve got a classic Indian comfort combo!



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