Paneer-Eyed Cravings? Try These Dinner Paneer Recipes

Paneer, or cottage cheese, is a staple ingredient in Indian cuisine, especially in North Indian homes, and for good reason. For vegetarians looking to add more protein to their diet, paneer can be an excellent addition to meals. It is not only one of the most versatile ingredients, but it is also high in nutrients such as calcium and protein. In fact, as per the USDA, about 100 grams of paneer contain 11 grams of protein. Its versatility, however, has made paneer popular across age groups. No wonder there are countless delicacies that are prepared using paneer—right from tikkas, kebabs, and rolls in snacks to mouth-watering curries in mains and even desserts like paneer rabdi, halwa, and kheer. Well, Indian cuisine can really spoil us, especially if there’s paneer involved.

And if you too are a paneer lover who loves to try different Indian paneer recipes at home, we've got a list of some drool-worthy ideas to experiment with for your next dinner.

Handi paneer is a popular Indian dish made with paneer cheese, spices, and a rich tomato-based gravy. The dish is typically cooked in a traditional Indian clay pot called a "handi," which is where it gets its name. The paneer is cubed and simmered in a flavorful sauce made with onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and spices like cumin, coriander, garam masala, and turmeric. Some variations may include cream or yoghurt to add richness. Handi paneer is often served with naan, roti, or rice and garnished with fresh cilantro. It's a delicious and comforting dish that's popular in North Indian cuisine.

Makhni Paneer Biryani

Biryani is definitely a heaven for foodies. It's a fragrant and spicy blend of basmati rice, paneer cheese, and a creamy tomato sauce that's been infused with spices like cumin, coriander, and cardamom. The paneer is marinated in a yogurt-based mixture that's been spiked with a variety of spices, giving it a tender and juicy texture that bursts with flavour. The rice is cooked to perfection, with each grain perfectly fluffy and aromatic, infused with a blend of spices that bring out its natural nuttiness and sweetness. Paneer layered with aromatic rice and cooked in 'dum' style makes it the perfect meal for vegetarians.

Paneer Kolhapuri  

Kolhapuri Paneer is a dish from Maharashtra in western India, where the cuisine is known for its bold and fiery flavours. Are you a fan of spice? Then this dish is definitely worth trying. Paneer cubes cooked in rich tomato gravy with freshly made Kolhapuri masala and other spicy masalas result in an aromatic curry that is hard to resist. It's a dish that packs a punch, with a complex blend of spices that are sure to excite your taste buds.

Malai Paneer 

Malai Paneer is a dish that exudes luxury and indulgence. It's a true celebration of the rich and creamy flavours that are synonymous with North Indian cuisine. The dish is a perfect balance of soft and tender paneer cheese, simmered in a luscious cream-based gravy that's delicately spiced with a variety of aromatic spices. Give your regular paneer dish a luscious spin as paneer cubes are tossed in with refreshing curd and aromatic spices in this unique delicacy.

Dum Paneer Kali Mirch

A hint of black pepper is bound to give any dish a flavourful spin. The dish is made with tender and succulent paneer cubes that have been slow-cooked in a fragrant gravy that's infused with the bold and earthy flavours of black pepper. Whether enjoyed with warm and fluffy rice or fresh naan bread, Dum Paneer Kali Mirch is a dish that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.

Paneer Bhurji 

Let’s just agree that there’s nothing that beats a quick, easy, and absolutely delicious dish of paneer bhurji. It is made by crumbling soft and tender paneer and then cooking it with a variety of fragrant spices, vegetables, and herbs. Not only is it a great side dish at the dinner table, but it also works wonders as a high-protein breakfast. Imagine the tantalising flavours of tomatoes, fenugreek, and cashew nuts along with minced paneer—sounds satisfying, doesn’t it?

Malai Kofta 

This creamy paneer dish made with a whole lot of malai is a favourite of many. The dish features soft and tender kofta balls made from paneer, simmered in a rich and creamy tomato-based gravy that's delicately spiced with a variety of aromatic spices that are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling warm and satisfied.

Paneer Aloo Kulcha

Pair your paneer curries with this crispy on the outside and mushy on the inside masaledar kulcha, stuffed with yummy aloo and paneer filling that transforms a simple kulcha into a stellar dish that you won't be able to resist after just one bite!