Paneer Preparation Basics
The cornerstone of great Chilli Paneer is, undeniably, the paneer itself. Begin by selecting fresh paneer, ensuring it's firm but not overly dry. Cut the paneer into
uniform cubes, roughly an inch in size. These even-sized pieces will cook evenly, leading to a consistent texture in your final dish. For added flavor and a slightly firmer texture, you can marinate the paneer before cooking. A simple marinade might include a mix of ginger-garlic paste, soy sauce (use a low-sodium option), and a pinch of salt. Gently toss the paneer cubes in the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Let this marinate for at least 15-20 minutes, or even longer in the refrigerator for a deeper flavor. The marinade not only imparts flavor but also helps the paneer absorb the sauces later on, making it even more delicious.
Essential Sauce Ingredients
The sauce is where the magic happens in Chilli Paneer. Gather your ingredients: finely chopped onions, capsicum (bell peppers) – ideally a mix of colors for visual appeal and varied flavor notes – green chilies (adjust the quantity based on your spice preference), ginger-garlic paste, soy sauce, and tomato ketchup. Some people enjoy adding a touch of vinegar for a bit of tang. A crucial component is the cornstarch slurry, which will thicken the sauce, giving it the right consistency to coat the paneer. Make sure you have enough oil for the initial stir-frying and cooking. Consider adding a small amount of sugar to balance the flavors. Keep the quantity minimal. Always taste and adjust seasonings as you go. Consider a sprinkle of freshly chopped coriander leaves at the end for fresh appeal.
Stir-Frying the Vegetables
Now it's time to bring everything together in your pan. Heat a generous amount of oil in a wok or a large, deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and lightly browned. Next, incorporate the ginger-garlic paste and stir-fry for another minute until the raw smell subsides and they begin to release their aroma. Add the capsicum and green chilies, and stir-fry for a few minutes until the capsicum softens slightly but retains some of its crispness. The secret to a perfect Chilli Paneer lies in this balance of texture, so be careful not to overcook the vegetables. Consider adding a splash of water, if necessary, to prevent the vegetables from sticking and browning too quickly. Keep stirring them around, as that's key to perfect flavor development and an even cook.
Crafting the Delicious Sauce
Once the vegetables are ready, it's time to create the sauce. Add the soy sauce, tomato ketchup, and vinegar (if using) to the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Then, pour in the cornstarch slurry, stirring continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. The sauce will begin to thicken almost immediately. If it's too thick, add a little water to achieve the desired consistency. Season with salt and sugar to taste, remembering that soy sauce usually contains salt, so be cautious about adding more. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together. At this point, you can adjust the spiciness by adding more green chilies or a pinch of red chili flakes, depending on your preferred taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for about a minute, giving it the right texture.
Adding Paneer & Finishing
Now, gently add the marinated paneer cubes to the sauce. Carefully toss the paneer in the sauce, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Be gentle during this step to prevent the paneer from breaking. Cook the paneer in the sauce for a few minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors. If you prefer a crispier texture, you can deep-fry the paneer cubes separately before adding them to the sauce. This is an extra step, but it delivers a wonderful texture contrast. Finally, garnish your Chilli Paneer with freshly chopped coriander leaves for freshness. Serve it hot, and enjoy it as a delightful snack or appetizer. You can enjoy it with noodles or rice. This dish is usually made in homes and is one of the most loved snacks.
