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With every passing week, paneer often ends up showing up in the same form at dining tables, i.e,. butter masala, tikka on repeat. Sure, it can be very comforting, but also a little predictable, after having it many times. Then comes the weekend, when you finally have the time and also the mood to break the pattern and cook something that feels amazing, has a burst of flavours, and is a little indulgent. Dhaba-style paneer varieties are one such thing that you can try your hand at during some free time at the weekend, which are smoky, spicy, buttery, and overflowing with personality.
These are the kind of dishes that remind of late-night road trips, chai in steel glasses, and tandoor smells drifting through the highway air. Cooking these dhaba-style paneer varieties at home changes an ordinary meal into a mini escape, no long drive, no crowd, just you recreating that magic in your kitchen. If the usual paneer feels boring, these dhaba-style recipes will surely be a reason to change the weekend into a delectable detour.
Dhaba-Style Paneer Butter Masala
Creamy, decadent, and extremely indulgent, dhaba-style paneer butter masala is a comfort dish for every paneer lover. Soft paneer cubes absorb the buttery, tomato-onion gravy seasoned with kasuri methi, red chilli, and garam masala. Unlike the light curries, this one is meant to be swept up slowly with naan or tandoori roti, and with nothing urgent on your task list. The slight tang of tomatoes, balanced with cream and a touch of sweetness, makes it crowd-pleasing and restaurant-like without putting in extra effort, perfect for a Saturday special lunch or dinner.
(Image credit: Freepik)
Kadai Paneer Dhaba-Style
Dhaba-style kadai paneer is a perfect blend of spices and aroma. Cubes of Paneer, capsicum, and onions are tossed in a roasted masala prepared from coriander seeds, dry red chillies, and tomatoes that stick to every piece instead of the runny gravy. The gravy has a smoky, little coarse texture that feels rich and strong, exactly what you desire after a long, hectic week. Paired with tandoori roti, rumali roti or simple roti, it changes the dining table to a highway-dhaba experience, making it ideal for a joyful family weekend meal.
Tandoori Paneer Tikka
Tandoori paneer tikka is the hero of the starter that makes the weekend dinner feel like an outing, without leaving home. Big paneer cubes and veggies such as onion, capsicum and tomato are marinated in a blend of hung curd, ginger-garlic, some basic kitchen spices, and lemon, then grilled till roasted from the edges and soft from the inside. The smoky fragrance, slight spice, and gentle heat make it a perfect start to the weekend. It is also a great option for when you do not want a heavy curry but still want something special, making your movie nights, game nights, or relaxed house parties sorted.
(Image credit: Freepik)
Dhaba-Style Palak Paneer
Dhaba-style palak paneer is not the dull, “eat-your-greens” version many think of. The spinach is cooked in a blend of onions, tomatoes, garlic, green chillies, and a generous amount of ghee or butter, giving it a rural, earthy depth. Paneer cubes remain soft and absorb the garlicky spinach gravy, making every bite feel comforting and homely. Dhaba-style palak paneer is a great weekend choice when you want food that does not feel too heavy but still tastes the same as a restaurant. Pair it with makki roti, naan, or simply jeera rice, and it makes for a wholesome, pleasing dinner.
Paneer Bhurji Masala Dhaba-Style
Dhaba-style paneer bhurji is bold, spicy, and has a burst of flavours. Crumbled paneer cooked with onions, tomatoes, green chillies, capsicum, and dhaba-style masalas till everything converts into a rich, spicy scramble. A final garnishing with butter and coriander adds to its irresistible charm. Enjoyed with buttered pav, paratha, or even plain roti, this version of paneer bhurji makes for an easy and indulgent weekend meal. It is perfect for late Sunday brunches or lazy Saturday dinners when you want something that is quick to prepare, full of taste and has a touch of restaurant style, without having to leave home.
(Image credit: Freepik)
