Top 10 Paneer Dishes You Must Try

This article covers the top 10 paneer dishes you must try, from creamy delights like Paneer Butter Masala to crispy snacks like Paneer Pakora. Paneer, with its rich protein content and versatility, is a beloved ingredient in Indian cuisine, perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. These dishes bring out the best of paneer and showcase its ability to absorb flavours while providing a satisfying, indulgent experience.

Paneer, the versatile, soft, and spongy Indian cottage cheese, holds a special place in the hearts of food lovers across the world. Paneer has transcended regional boundaries in India, becoming an essential ingredient in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. This unique cheese is made by curdling milk with an acid like lemon juice or vinegar, and it has a rich history in Indian cuisine. From street food stalls to fine dining restaurants, paneer dishes are a common favourite on menus across the country.

In this article, we will take you through the top 10 paneer dishes that showcase the versatility of this ingredient. Whether it is creamy gravies, smoky grilled preparations, or crispy deep-fried snacks, paneer can be transformed into a delicious dish for every occasion. These dishes are popular not only in Indian homes but have also found their way into kitchens around the world. So, get ready to embark on a journey of flavours, textures, and aromas with these 10 must-try paneer recipes!

Highlights

Top 10 Paneer Dishes You Must Try

1. Paneer Butter Masala (PBM)

No list of paneer dishes is complete without paneer butter masala. This dish has its roots in Punjabi cuisine and is believed to have been invented in the 1950s in Delhi by the chefs at the Moti Mahal restaurant. It is famous for its rich, creamy texture and mildly pleasant, tangy flavour profile. Over the years, Paneer Butter Masala has become a global favourite, especially in Indian restaurants.

The dish is made by simmering paneer in a smooth, buttery gravy, often made with tomato purée, cream, butter, and spices like garam masala and kasuki methi (dried fenugreek leaves). Paneer Butter Masala has become synonymous with comfort food, offering a perfect balance between richness and sweetness.

Why You Must Try It: Paneer Butter Masala is one of those rare dishes that feels both indulgent and comforting. It is a perfect choice for people who enjoy creamy curries but prefer something milder than the spicier alternatives. The buttery flavour and melt-in-your-mouth paneer make it a go-to dish at any meal, whether for a regular weeknight dinner or a festive celebration. Pair it with naan, paratha, or jeera rice, and you have a complete meal.

2. Paneer Tikka

Paneer Tikka is a popular vegetarian appetiser that is well-loved across the country, especially in North India. Originating from Punjab, this dish has become a staple at parties, festivals, and street food stalls. It is an ideal snack to enjoy while sipping on a glass of masala chai.
Paneer cubes are marinated in a spiced yoghurt mixture and grilled on skewers, resulting in a smoky, charred flavour that is hard to resist. The marination process allows the paneer to absorb all the aromatic spices, giving it a juicy and flavourful texture.

Why You Must Try It: If you love grilled food, Paneer Tikka is a must-try. The smoky flavour, combined with the spicy marinade, makes this dish a flavourful and satisfying snack. The crispy edges and soft, spongy interior of the paneer cubes create a delightful contrast, making it a favourite among vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Served with a side of green chutney and onion rings, Paneer Tikka makes a perfect appetiser or snack.

3. Shahi Paneer

Shahi Paneer is a royal dish from the Mughlai cuisine, often served in royal feasts. The word “Shahi” translates to “royal” in Persian, which perfectly captures the essence of this rich and indulgent dish. It was developed during the Mughal Empire, where elaborate preparations involving cream, nuts, and saffron were the hallmark of royal kitchens.
This dish features paneer cubes cooked in a rich, creamy gravy made with cashews, almonds, and cream. It isflavouredd with exotic spices like cardamom and mace to elevate its richness. The addition of saffron gives it a delicateflavourr and a luxurious golden hue.

Why You Must Try It: Shahi Paneer is perfect for those who love indulgent and flavourful curries. It is a dish fit for a celebration or special occasion. The creamy texture of the gravy, along with the nutty flavours from the cashews and almonds, creates a mouthwatering experience. It is best enjoyed with naan, roomali roti, or jeera rice.

4. Paneer Do Pyaza

Paneer do Pyaza is a popular North Indian dish that gets its name from the use of two kinds of onions (do Pyaza), which give the dish its unique flavor. Pyaz refers to onions, and the “do” in the name signifies the use of onions in two forms: caramelised and fresh. The dish is known for its savoury and tangy flavour, with a spicy kick that comes from the careful balance of spices.
This dish is made by cooking paneer in a spiced onion gravy, where onions are sautéed in oil and added twice to the curry. The result is a dish that is both savoury and rich, with an intense flavour that stands out.

Why You Must Try It: If you are looking for a dish that combines the depth of flavour from onions with the richness of paneer, Paneer Do Pyaza should be your go-to. The combination of pleasant caramelised onions and sharp raw onions creates an exciting contrast. This dish is perfect for those who prefer spicy, tangy curries with a bit of bite. You are in for a treat if you serve it with rice or naan.

5. Palak Paneer

Palak Paneer is one of the healthiest and most beloved paneer dishes, widely consumed across India. The dish pairs paneer cubes with spinach (Palak) in a flavourful, nutrient-packed gravy. Known for its vibrant green colour, Palak Paneer is a favourite among health-conscious individuals, as spinach is loaded with vitamins and iron.

This dish is cooked by first blanching the spinach, then puréeing it to create a smooth, velvety base. The paneer cubes are added to the spinach gravy and simmered to absorb the flavors. The meal gains warmth and flavour from the use of cumin and garam masala.

Why You Must Try It: Palak Paneer is an ideal choice for a healthy, vegetarian meal that does not compromise on taste. The earthy spinach combined with the creamy paneer makes for a satisfying and filling dish. It is perfect for those who enjoy mild, savoury flavors. Pair it with roti, paratha, or rice for a wholesome meal.

6. Paneer Lababdar

Paneer Lababdar is another North Indian favourite that is a step up from Paneer Butter Masala. The word “Lababdar” means “delicious” or “mouth-watering,” which is a fitting description for this indulgent dish. This dish features paneer cooked in a rich, spicy, and creamy tomato gravy with butter, cream, and an array of aromatic spices.

Unlike other creamy paneer curries, Paneer Lababdar has a slightly more robust flavour, with an emphasis on garlic, ginger, and green chilies. It is often made with fresh cream to make the gravy even richer and smoother.

Why You Must Try It: Paneer Lababdar is perfect for those who love creamy curries with an extra kick of spice. The smoothness of the gravy paired with the soft paneer cubes makes this dish a luxurious and satisfying meal. It is a great dish to serve during gatherings or special occasions and pairs beautifully with naan, paratha, or jeera rice.

7. Kadhai Paneer

Kadhai Paneer hails from the Punjabi cuisine, where it is traditionally cooked in a Kadhai (a deep wok-like pan). This dish is known for its bold and hearty flavors. The combination of capsicum, onions, and tomatoes gives the curry its signature texture and flavor. The dish is made by stir-frying the vegetables and paneer in a spiced gravy made from garam masala and dry fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), which imparts a slight bitterness to the dish.

Why You Must Try It: Kadhai Paneer is perfect for those who enjoy bold, aromatic flavours with a bit of texture. The stir-frying process gives the dish a savoury flavour that adds to its appeal. The crunchy bell peppers and the tender paneer create a delightful contrast, making it an exciting dish to enjoy with roti, naan, or rice.

8. Methi Malai Murg (Paneer Version)

Traditionally prepared with the leaves of fenugreek (methi) and a thick, creamy foundation, Methi Malai Murg is a North Indian chicken dish. The vegetarian version replaces chicken with paneer, and the result is equally delicious. The bitter-pleasant combination of fenugreek and cream creates a unique flavour profile.

Why You Must Try It: For those who want to experience a bitter-pleasant flavour combination, Methi Malai Paneer offers an interesting twist. The richness of the cream balances the bitterness of the fenugreek leaves, making it a unique dish to try. It is a great choice if you are looking for something different from the usual paneer dishes.

9. Paneer pakora

Paneer Pakora is a quintessential Indian snack often enjoyed during the monsoon season or at festive gatherings. Paneer cubes are coated in a spiced gram flour (besan) batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. The crispy exterior combined with the soft, creamy interior of the paneer is a match made in heaven. Usually, it is served with either tamarind or green chutney.

Why You Must Try It: Paneer pakora is perfect for anyone who loves deep-fried snacks. The crispy, crunchy texture of the batter paired with the soft, cheesy interior of the paneer makes this dish irresistible. It is a great teatime snack or appetiser for parties, and it can be enjoyed with a hot cup of chai.

10. Paneer Bhurji

Paneer Bhurji is a quick and easy dish that is often prepared for breakfast or as a side dish. Cooked with onions, tomatoes, peppers, and spices, it is basically a dish of scrambled paneer. The ingredients are all stir-fried together to create a dish that is both flavourful and filling. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with roti, paratha, or even bread.

Why You Must Try It: Paneer Bhurji is a great option for anyone who wants a quick and healthy meal. The dish is packed with flavours and is a good source of protein, making it an ideal option for breakfast or dinner. Its scrambled texture makes it different from other paneer dishes, offering a more casual and comforting way to enjoy paneer.

Paneer is a true hero of Indian cuisine. Whether it is buttery and rich curries like Paneer Butter Masala or grilled delights like Paneer Tikka, this ingredient has the ability to adapt to various cooking techniques and flavour profiles. From North Indian classics to southern delicacies, paneer is the star of many iconic dishes that showcase the depth and diversity of Indian cooking.

As we have seen through these 10 dishes, paneer can be transformed into comfort food, a luxurious treat, or even a healthy meal. If you are a paneer enthusiast, trying these dishes will give you a greater appreciation for their versatility. Whether you prefer spicy, creamy, or grilled flavours, there is always a paneer dish to suit your taste buds.

So, grab some fresh paneer and start experimenting with these recipes to bring theflavourss of India into your kitchen!

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