If you are a paneer lover but getting a bit bored of the same old plain cubes, it is time to spice things up! Paneer is one of the most versatile ingredients in Indian cuisine, it absorbs flavours beautifully and retains its creamy texture. You have probably tried it grilled, curried or even stuffed, but there are so many ways to bring a whole new life to this classic ingredient.
Try marinating paneer with fresh herbs or smoky paneer charred to perfection with a blend of spices. Sounds yummy? The secret lies in using the right marinades, herbs and spices that elevate the flavour without losing that soft and velvety bite.
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Do you like it fiery with chillies, tangy with lemon or delicate with herbs and saffron? There are recipes for every mood and every meal. From pan frying to baking, every cooking method brings out a different characteristic of paneer and makes it the hero of the dish.
Ready to break free from plain paneer? Time to get creative and infuse your paneer with bold and delicious flavours that will make your taste buds dance!
Mint And Coriander Paneer
Add a refreshing twist to your homemade paneer by infusing it with mint and coriander. Add chopped mint and coriander leaves to the milk while curdling. The herbs will add a lovely green colour and a burst of freshness to the taste. This paneer is versatile and can be used in salads, wraps and even in traditional Indian gravies. Perfect for summer or as a light snack.
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Chili Garlic Paneer
For spice lovers, chilli garlic paneer is the way to go. Add crushed garlic and red chilli flakes to the milk as it curdles. The paneer will have a bold spicy flavour that can be added to curries or served as a starter. With its strong kick, this paneer is a great base for spicier Indian dishes or fusion recipes like chilli garlic paneer wraps or sandwiches.
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Smoked Paprika Paneer
Add a smoky flavour to your paneer by adding smoked paprika powder. The result is a paneer that has a mild sweetness and a rich smoky flavour. This pairs well with grilled dishes or as a filling for wraps. The subtle heat of the paprika enhances the creaminess of the paneer, perfect for barbecue nights or as a twist to traditional paneer recipes. Serve it charred with vegetables and you have a winner!
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Also Read: 5 Easy Tips To Soften Refrigerated Paneer
Lemon Pepper Paneer
For a zingy, peppery version try lemon pepper paneer. Add freshly grated lemon zest and crushed black pepper while curdling to give the paneer a tangy, citrusy flavour with a hint of heat. The sharpness of lemon and pepper makes this paneer great for salads, starters or as a topping for baked dishes. A refreshing one for summer or as a unique ingredient in fusion cuisine.
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Fenugreek (Methi) Paneer
Fenugreek paneer is for those who love earthy, slightly bitter flavours. Add a handful of dried fenugreek leaves (Kasuri methi) to the curdling milk and you get a distinct flavour that is Indian at heart. This paneer is great for tikkas, curries or even parathas where the methi flavour comes out. Its unique flavour pairs well with robust spices and is a great addition to classic North Indian dishes like methi malai paneer.
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Lemon Herb Paneer
This citrusy herb paneer is made by adding a mixture of lemon juice, chopped basil and oregano to the paneer curdling process. The result is a lightly tangy and fragrant paneer with subtle herbal notes, great for Mediterranean dishes or as a filling for pita pockets. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs bring out a bright flavour that pairs well with roasted veggies or can be crumbled over pasta for a twist.
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Turmeric And Black Pepper Paneer
Get a golden colour and earthy flavour by adding turmeric and freshly cracked black pepper to the mix. Turmeric gives a warm, slightly bitter taste and black pepper a sharp kick.
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This paneer looks good and has a lot of flavour that pairs well with Indian sabzis or as a grilled snack. Enjoy it on its own or add it to a masala curry for a filling meal.