Paneer Paratha Recipe

If you’re craving a wholesome, protein-packed Indian breakfast or lunch, look no further than the comforting and flavorful Paneer Paratha. This stuffed flatbread is a beloved dish across North India, featuring a soft whole wheat dough filled with a spicy paneer (Indian cottage cheese) mixture. It’s hearty, satisfying, and easy to prepare—making it perfect for busy weekdays or a cozy weekend brunch.

What is Paneer Paratha?

Paneer Paratha is a type of Indian paratha (layered or stuffed flatbread) filled with a seasoned paneer mixture. Paneer is crumbled and mixed with herbs and spices like green chilies, coriander, cumin, and garam masala. This filling is then enclosed in a dough ball, rolled out, and cooked on a hot tawa (griddle) with ghee or oil until golden and crisp.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• ½ tsp salt
• Water (as needed to knead)
• 1 tsp oil (optional)

For the Paneer Filling:

• 1 cup paneer, grated or crumbled
• 1 green chili, finely chopped
• ½ tsp cumin seeds
• ½ tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), crushed
• 2 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped
• Salt to taste

For Cooking:

• Ghee or oil as needed

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, add wheat flour and salt.
2. Gradually add water and knead into a soft, pliable dough.
3. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20–30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Paneer Filling

1. In another bowl, combine crumbled paneer with green chili, cumin, garam masala, chili powder, kasuri methi, coriander, and salt.
2. Mix gently without mashing the paneer too much. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Parathas

1. Divide the dough into equal-sized balls.
2. Roll out one ball into a 4-inch disc.
3. Place 1–2 tablespoons of the paneer filling in the center.
4. Bring the edges of the dough together to seal the filling and form a ball.
5. Gently roll it out into a 6–7 inch paratha, being careful not to let the filling spill out.

Step 4: Cook the Paratha

1. Heat a tawa or skillet over medium heat.
2. Place the rolled-out paratha on the hot tawa.
3. Cook for about a minute, then flip.
4. Apply ghee or oil and cook both sides until golden brown with crispy spots.
5. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.

Serving Suggestions

• A dollop of butter or ghee on top
• Plain yogurt or raita
• Spicy pickle (achar)
• Mint chutney or coriander chutney

Tips for Perfect Paneer Paratha

• Use fresh paneer for best texture and flavor.
• Avoid overstuffing to prevent tearing while rolling.
• Keep the tawa hot for evenly cooked parathas with crispy golden spots.
• Add finely chopped onions or grated carrots to the filling for variation.

Paneer Paratha is a delightful fusion of carbs and protein, making it a complete and balanced meal. It’s kid-friendly, lunchbox-friendly, and can be customized to suit your spice tolerance. Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish is a must-try for every paratha lover.