Paneer Prep First
The journey to delicious Chilli Paneer begins with preparing the paneer. Start by cutting the paneer into bite-sized cubes. Next, in a bowl, combine the paneer cubes with a mixture
of cornflour, all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper. This coating is the secret to a crispy exterior. Gently toss the paneer to ensure each cube is evenly coated. Then, heat oil in a pan or wok, ensuring it's hot enough for frying. Carefully drop the coated paneer cubes into the hot oil, frying them until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove the fried paneer and set it aside; it is now ready for the flavorful sauce that will follow. This initial preparation ensures the paneer has a delightful texture, ready to soak up the delicious flavors of the chilli sauce.
Sauce Time: The Base
Now, let’s build the sauce, the heart of Chilli Paneer! In a separate pan or wok, heat a little oil. Sauté finely chopped garlic and ginger until they release their aroma. Add finely chopped green chilies; adjust the quantity to your preferred spice level. Sauté them briefly. Next, introduce the finely chopped onions and capsicum, stir-frying until they soften but retain some crunch. Now, add the crucial elements of the sauce. Pour in soy sauce, chili sauce, and tomato sauce, mixing everything well. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors. Let the sauce simmer briefly, allowing the flavors to meld. The careful balance of these ingredients is key to achieving that perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory that makes Chilli Paneer so irresistible.
Bringing It Together
Now comes the magic of combining all the elements. Add the fried paneer cubes to the simmering sauce, ensuring they're coated evenly. If you want a thicker sauce, mix a little cornflour with water and add it to the pan; this will help it bind together. Stir gently to avoid breaking the paneer. Cook for a few minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors of the sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt or chili sauce to suit your taste. Finally, garnish with chopped spring onions for a fresh touch. Serve the Chilli Paneer hot, and enjoy it as a snack or side dish. The combination of crispy paneer and the flavorful sauce will bring a fantastic culinary experience, perfect for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
Chilli Paneer's versatility makes it a great addition to any meal. This dish is usually served as a starter or snack, but it can also be a part of a larger spread. Serving it immediately after preparation is best to enjoy the paneer's crispiness. For an extra layer of flavor and texture, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top before serving. Pair it with fried rice or noodles for a complete meal. Additionally, this dish is great with a side of steamed rice. The combination of the spicy, savory Chilli Paneer with the simplicity of the rice offers a satisfying contrast. For those who enjoy a bit of coolness, a side of raita (yogurt dip) complements the dish well, balancing the spice with its creamy texture.
