Paneer Preparation
First, you need to prepare the paneer. Start by cubing the paneer into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, prepare a marinade using ingredients like soy sauce,
ginger-garlic paste, cornflour, and a pinch of salt. Gently mix the paneer cubes with the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. This step is crucial for the paneer to absorb the flavors and create a delightful texture. Allow the marinated paneer to sit for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the paneer to soak up the marinade, which in turn leads to a richer taste.
Frying Essentials
Heat some oil in a pan or a wok. The oil should be hot enough for frying. Carefully add the marinated paneer pieces to the hot oil. Fry the paneer until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. Ensure to fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy paneer. Once fried, remove the paneer from the oil and set it aside. This crisping process is vital for providing that satisfying crunch when you bite into the Chilli Paneer.
The Veggie Base
Next, prepare the vegetables. You'll need onions, bell peppers (capsicum), and green chilies. Chop the onions and bell peppers into square or rectangular shapes. Slit the green chilies lengthwise. Now, in the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the onions and bell peppers until they soften slightly, retaining a bit of their crunch. Add the green chilies and stir-fry for a short while. This step adds the essential base of flavors for your Chilli Paneer, and the vegetables provide both texture and taste.
Sauce Simmering
Now it's time to build the sauce. In the pan with the sautéed vegetables, add sauces such as soy sauce, chili sauce, and tomato ketchup. For a spicy kick, add a dash of red chili powder or green chilies, depending on your spice preference. Mix the sauces well with the vegetables and let it simmer for a few minutes. If you desire a thicker sauce, add a slurry made of cornflour and water. This step is what brings all the flavors together, creating the distinctive taste of Chilli Paneer, which ranges from sweet to spicy.
Final Assembly
Gently add the fried paneer pieces to the simmering sauce. Toss the paneer with the sauce, making sure it's evenly coated. Stir gently to avoid breaking the paneer cubes. Cook for a couple of minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors of the sauce. Garnish with chopped spring onions or coriander leaves for a fresh look and flavor. Your delicious Chilli Paneer is now ready to serve. Enjoy this easy-to-make, restaurant-quality dish at home, perfect for any evening gathering or a simple snack.
