Paneer, also known as the delight of vegetarians, is one of the most adaptable and experimental ingredients, which is soft, creamy, and can absorb any flavour it is infused with. While classics such as paneer butter masala or paneer tikka have ruled the plates, there are many other unique paneer dishes that are left unexplored. From the smoky dhaba-style preparations and herb-loaded gravies to creamy, slow-cooked treats, each recipe has a new texture, fragrance, and twist.
Whether you are looking for something indulgent or a new, refreshing taste, these recipes show that paneer can be as bold or subtle as you want it to be. Here are five must-try paneer dishes, each has its own taste and character, that every food lover should try at least once. They are comforting yet creative, excellent for both festive meals and everyday indulgence.
Paneer Lazeez
Paneer Lazeez is a Mughlai-inspired dish that is prepared by combining soft paneer cubes slowly cooked in a creamy tomato-cashew-based gravy seasoned with kasuri methi and fragrant spices. The gravy is smooth and mildly spicy, perfectly balancing the tang and sweetness of every ingredient. Unlike the paneer butter masala, this version of paneer has a more creamy, smoky flavour, all because of charred onions and roasted spices that are used. Paneer lazeez is best enjoyed with butter naan or jeera rice, as it offers a restaurant-style feel at your home.
Dhaba-Style Paneer Bhurji
This version of paneer bhurji is a classic, with bursts of bold, rustic flavours, which is prepared from coarsely crumbled paneer tossed in a spicy onion-tomato masala base. The texture of this paneer bhurji is slightly moist, not very runny, with some ginger, green chilli, and a hint of garam masala giving it a zesty kick. The smoky, toasted taste and buttery finish make this dhaba-style paneer bhurji irresistible with parathas or even pav. Unlike the other soft and delicate flavoured paneer sabzis, this one has a crumbled texture and rough consistency that screams the comfort of desi food.
Paneer Lababdar
It is a typical North Indian curry that is prepared by simmering paneer in a rich tomato-onion-based gravy prepared with cream, butter, and ground cashews. The gravy is thick, smooth, and has slightly sweet notes with a gentle spice undertone. What makes it stand out from other paneer dishes is the addition of grated paneer in the gravy itself, which creates a melt-in-the-mouth texture. It is a royal dish which is full of flavours, balanced taste, and luxurious without being overly heavy. Paneer lababdar is perfect for festive spreads and also when you crave something rich and indulgent.
Hara Masala Paneer
A refreshing green twist to the regular paneer curries, hara masala dish is prepared by blending coriander, mint, green chillies, and yoghurt into a bright, herby gravy. The gravy has a medium-thick consistency, is slightly tangy, and is full of earthy taste profiles that it gets from the fresh greens. The paneer soaks up the flavours, which results in a rich, aromatic, and lighter option to the heavy cream-based curries. Hara masala paneer pairs beautifully with jeera rice, naans or even phulkas.
Tawa Paneer Masala
Prepared on a flat griddle or tawa, this semi-dry paneer dish has intense, smoky flavours. The paneer is tossed with diced onions, capsicum, and a tomato masala that is cooked to perfection. The texture is thick and chunky, with a little char, which adds to the depth of the dish. Tawa paneer masala is a bit spicier and full of aroma than the regular, typical curries, with a punch that makes it an instant crowd-pleaser. Serve it hot with flaky, crispy lachha parathas or kulchas for a street-food-style feast.