Delicious Homemade Chilli Paneer Recipe

Making Chilli Paneer at Home

Chilli Paneer Recipe: Chilli Paneer stands out as a beloved Indo-Chinese dish, perfect for various occasions such as family dinners, children's parties, or when hosting unexpected guests. Known for its spicy kick, tender paneer, and rich gravy, many believe replicating the restaurant-style flavor at home is challenging.

However, with the right ingredients, a proper balance of sauces, and a few straightforward cooking techniques, you can create a Chilli Paneer that rivals your favorite restaurant's version. This dish combines fresh capsicum, onions, ginger-garlic, soy sauce, and mild spices, making it appealing to all. You can prepare it either dry or with gravy, depending on your preference.

Follow this simple recipe and tips to achieve restaurant-quality Chilli Paneer at home.

Ingredients Needed

For Frying the Paneer:

250g paneer (cut into cubes)

3 tbsp cornflour

2 tbsp all-purpose flour (maida)

1/2 tsp black pepper

Salt to taste

A little water

Oil for frying

For the Gravy:

1 onion (chopped into squares)

1 capsicum (chopped into squares)

1 tbsp finely chopped ginger and garlic

1 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp red chili sauce

1 tbsp tomato ketchup

1/2 tsp vinegar (optional)

1 tsp cornflour (mixed in 2 tbsp water)

Spring onions for garnish

Frying the Paneer

Begin by preparing the paneer.

Step 1: Create a thick batter by combining cornflour, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and a bit of water.
Step 2: Coat the paneer cubes evenly in this batter.
Step 3: Fry them over medium heat until they turn a light golden brown.
Step 4: Alternatively, you can air-fry or shallow-fry using less oil.

Preparing the Sauce

Step 1: Heat oil in a pan.
Step 2: Add ginger and garlic, sautéing until aromatic.
Step 3: Introduce onions and capsicum; stir-fry on high heat for 2-3 minutes to keep the vegetables slightly crunchy.
Step 4: Add soy sauce, chili sauce, tomato ketchup, and vinegar, mixing well.

Achieving the Right Gravy Consistency

Step 1: Incorporate the cornflour slurry while stirring continuously.
Step 2: Once the sauce thickens slightly, add the fried paneer and toss on high heat for 2 minutes.
Step 3: Garnish with spring onions.
Step 4: Use less water for dry Chilli Paneer; for a gravy version, add a little hot water.

Tips for Authentic Flavor

Always opt for fresh and soft paneer.

Avoid overcooking the vegetables; they should remain slightly crunchy.

Cook on high heat after adding sauces for the best flavor.

Be cautious with the amount of cornflour; too much can make the gravy sticky.

Garnish with spring onions just before serving.