Paneer is a versatile and beloved ingredient in Indian cuisine. Whether sizzling in a rich curry, crisped to perfection in a tandoor, Paneer elevates any dish it touches. In this post, I’ll explore some of the best traditional Indian Paneer dishes that showcase its ability to absorb bold flavours and satisfy every palate. Ready to discover your new favourite? Let’s dive into the delicious world of Paneer!
SEE ALSO: The most iconic dishes from around the world that celebrate local cheeses →
Why Paneer is so popular in Indian cuisine
Paneer is a staple in Indian households, and for good reason. Unlike other cheeses, Paneer does not melt when heated, making it perfect for a variety of preparations. Furthermore, it is high in protein, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians.
Moreover, its mild flavour allows it to blend seamlessly with different spices and gravies. Whether you prefer creamy curries, spicy stir-fries, or stuffed flatbreads, Paneer can be used in countless ways.
Why Paneer is suitable for vegetarians
Paneer is an excellent source of protein for vegetarians. Since its production uses an acid such as lemon juice or vinegar to curdle milk, it does not contain animal rennet. This makes it a completely vegetarian-friendly option.
Additionally, Paneer provides essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus and vitamin B12, all of which are important for maintaining good health. It is a great meat substitute in various Indian dishes, offering a satisfying texture and rich flavour.
Now, let’s explore the best Indian dishes featuring Paneer, divided into different categories based on how they are prepared.
Best curry-based Indian Paneer dishes
Let’s start this exploration with the type of dish most commonly associated with Indian cuisine, curries.
1. Paneer Butter Masala
Paneer Butter Masala (or simply, Butter Paneer) is one of the most beloved Paneer dishes, often found in Indian restaurants worldwide. This dish features soft Paneer cubes simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based gravy infused with butter and aromatic spices.
The result is a mildly sweet and tangy curry with a luscious texture. It pairs wonderfully with naan, roti, or basmati rice.
2. Shahi Paneer
In Hindi, “Shahi” means royal, and this dish truly lives up to its name. Shahi Paneer is a luxurious curry made with cashews, almonds, and fresh cream, giving it a velvety smooth texture. It is mildly spiced, with a subtle sweetness that balances out the richness of the gravy.
This dish is perfect for special occasions when you want to impress your guests with a decadent meal.
3. Kadai Paneer
If you enjoy bold and smoky flavours, Kadai Paneer is the perfect dish for you. This dish is prepared in a special Indian wok called a “kadai”, which enhances the overall taste. Kadai Paneer is a semi-dry dish made with Paneer, bell peppers, onions and a unique blend of kadai masala.
The result is a spicy, slightly tangy dish that goes well with both flatbreads and rice.
4. Palak Paneer
For those looking for a healthier option, Palak Paneer is a great choice. This nutritious dish combines soft Paneer cubes with a smooth spinach-based curry. The earthy flavour of spinach pairs beautifully with the creamy Paneer, creating a wholesome and delicious dish. Additionally, Palak Paneer is rich in iron and protein, making it a well-balanced meal.
5. Paneer Tikka Masala
Next, Paneer Tikka Masala takes the flavours of Paneer Tikka and elevates them by adding a rich tomato-based gravy. Firstly, you marinate the Paneer in a blend of yoghurt and spices. Then you grill it to perfection before adding it to the gravy. This is the perfect dish for people who love a combination of smoky and tangy flavours.
6. Matar Paneer
Matar Paneer is a simple yet comforting dish that combines Paneer cubes with green peas in a tomato-onion gravy. The sweetness of the peas balances the richness of the gravy, making this dish light yet satisfying. It’s a common homemade meal in North Indian households, often served with roti or rice.
7. Paneer Lababdar
Our final curry dish is Paneer Lababdar. This is another creamy and flavourful dish similar to Paneer Butter Masala but with a unique twist—it includes grated Paneer in the gravy. This adds extra texture and richness to the dish, making it even more indulgent.
Overall, the tomato-cashew sauce, combined with aromatic spices, creates a delicious balance of sweet and spicy flavours.
Best dry and snack-based Indian Paneer dishes
After discussing curries, let’s take a look at some dry dishes that celebrate Paneer cheese.
8. Paneer Tikka
Paneer Tikka is one of the most popular appetisers in Indian cuisine. It features marinated Paneer cubes grilled or baked until slightly charred. The marination, made with yoghurt and spices, gives the Paneer a deliciously tangy and smoky flavour.
Indians often serve Paneer Tikka with mint chutney and it makes for a perfect party starter.
9. Chilli Paneer
A fusion of Indian and Chinese flavours, Chilli Paneer is a spicy and tangy dish featuring crispy fried Paneer tossed in a soy sauce-based gravy with bell peppers and onions. You can serve this dish dry as a starter or with gravy as a main course alongside fried rice or noodles.
10. Paneer Pakora
Next, Paneer Pakora is a deep-fried snack where Paneer cubes are coated in a spiced gram flour batter and fried until crispy. This crunchy, flavourful treat is best with a hot cup of chai on a rainy day.
11. Achari Paneer
Achari Paneer gets its name from “achar”, meaning pickle. This dish features Paneer cooked with a blend of pickling spices, giving it a tangy, spicy and slightly sour taste. It’s a great dish to pair with parathas for a flavour-packed meal.
12. Paneer Bhurji
Paneer Bhurji is a quick and easy scrambled Paneer dish made with onions, tomatoes and spices. It is a great protein-rich breakfast or side dish, often enjoyed with bread or roti.
Best rice and bread-based Indian Paneer dishes
Finally, let’s look at some of the best rice and bread dishes that incorporate Paneer.
13. Paneer Biryani
For biryani lovers, Paneer Biryani is a delightful vegetarian alternative. Aromatic basmati rice is layered with spiced Paneer cubes, caramelised onions and fragrant spices, creating a dish full of rich, bold flavours.
14. Paneer Paratha
Paneer Paratha is a stuffed Indian flatbread filled with spiced, grated Paneer. It’s a hearty breakfast option, often served with yoghurt, butter or pickles.
15. Paneer Kulcha
Paneer Kulcha is a leavened bread stuffed with a Paneer filling and baked in a tandoor. It’s a delicious accompaniment to curries like Chole (chickpea curry).
Recipe: Paneer Butter Masala
Ingredients:
- 250g Paneer, cut into cubes
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 large tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 10 cashews, soaked and blended
- 1/2 cup fresh cream
- Spices: cumin seeds, garam masala, coriander powder, turmeric, Kashmiri chilli powder, salt, sugar, kasuri methi
Instructions:
- Heat butter and oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add onions and sauté until golden brown, then add ginger-garlic paste.
- Stir in tomato puree and cook until oil separates. Add cashew paste.
- Mix in spices and cook for a couple of minutes. Blend for a smooth gravy.
- Add Paneer cubes and let them simmer for 5 minutes. Sprinkle garam masala and kasuri methi.
- Garnish with cream and serve hot with naan or rice.
Final thoughts
Paneer is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in countless ways. Whether you love rich curries, smoky appetisers, or stuffed breads, there’s a Paneer dish for every craving.
Try making Paneer Butter Masala at home, and let me know how it turns out!
Would you like more Paneer recipes in future posts? Drop your suggestions in the comments!
Cheese lover. Scientist. Created a website and a Youtube channel about cheese science because he could not find answers to his questions online.
