6 Spicy Paneer Recipes To Fire Up Your Spread

There are two types of people in this world, ones with great spice tolerance, and the ones without. But let us not forget about the third kind, who are well aware that they are not so good with spicy food, but would attempt polishing off a plate of chilli manchurian anyway. That's the quality about spicy food, it always manages to draw takers, irrespective of where it finds itself. These dishes are often more vibrant looking, because of which they look intensely rich as well. Cottage cheese (or paneer as we know it), tastes delicious in a bunch of spicy preparations. Cottage cheese is one of the most versatile ingredients, and its creaminess perfectly complements the hot spices. The best part is that you can order several delicious paneer-based dishes from your favourite food delivery app!

Here are some spicy paneer recipes that'll win you over:

1. Chilli Paneer

The fan-base of this Indo-Chinese dish is so diverse that it is the hot-selling dish of every Chinese take-out in every neighbourhood. Chunks of paneer, tossed in a chilly-soy-based sauce with chunky vegetables. Pair with noodles or rice. Click here for recipe. 

(Also Read: 13 Best Quick & Easy Recipes | 13 Top Simple & Instant Recipes)

2. Dum Paneer Kali Mirch

Not spicy red chilli powder, but it is the black pepper that is the star of this hot dish. Paneer kali mirch is an incredibly easy recipe you can prepare in no time with easily available ingredients at home. Click here for the recipe. 

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3. Spicy Paneer Tikka

You almost guessed this to be here, right? Inarguably one of the greatest vegetarian starters of all times gets a spicy makeover. The smoky and juicy paneer tikkas with some onions and capsicum for the crunch, sounds like a treat to us. Click here for the recipe. 

4. Handi Paneer

This dhaba-style dish is ideal for days you are craving for something greasy and good. An irresistible curry laced with goodness of tomatoes, red chillies, onions and all things rich. This gravy dish is thickened by curd; pair it with any bread of your choice with sliced onions on the side. Click here for the recipe. Or just quickly order it from your favourite food delivery app.

5. Achaar Wala Paneer

'Achaari' refers to anything that is slightly pickle-like. The achaari masala in this gravy dish is made with the goodness of kalonji seeds, mustard seeds, saunf, red chilly powder and dried red chillies. Pair it with rice or roti. Click here for the recipe.

6. Saunfia Chaman

A Kashmiri delicacy made with spice-infused fried pieces of paneer tossed in a tomato-based gravy. Saunf (or fennel seeds) add a tempting fragrance to the rice, and the paneer chunks fried in ghee exude a whole another level of richness. Click here for the recipe. 

Tips to cook with paneer at home

• Avoid overcooking paneer
  Paneer becomes chewy and rubbery if cooked too long. Add it toward the end of the dish and let it simmer only for a few minutes.

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• Soak firm paneer before cooking
  If store‑bought paneer feels hard or dry, soak it in warm water for 10–15 minutes to restore softness and moisture.

• Marinate paneer for deeper flavour
  Even a short marinade with yogurt, spices, and lemon juice helps paneer absorb seasoning better before grilling or pan‑frying.

• Pan‑fry on medium heat
  To get an even golden crust without breaking the cubes, use medium heat, give each side time to brown, and avoid overcrowding the pan.

• Balance richness with acidity
  Paneer dishes can be heavy; adding lemon juice, tomatoes, yogurt, or a touch of chaat masala at the end brightens the overall flavour.

What spices pair well with paneer?

Turmeric, coriander, cumin, paprika, and salt pair well with paneer. Drizzle some oil and toss to coat with the spices.

Try these recipes and let us know how you liked it in the comments below.

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