Succulent Golden Paneer Masala (Indian Starter)

Succulent Golden Paneer Masala (Indian Starter) is a medium Indian recipe that serves 3. 320 calories per serving.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 45 min

Cost: $5.55 total, $1.85 per serving

Ingredients

  • 250 g Paneer (Cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 75 ml Oil (For frying and masala)
  • 2 tbsp Garlic (Finely chopped or crushed)
  • 1 medium Onion (Finely chopped)
  • 1 tsp Red chili powder
  • 1 tsp Garam masala
  • to taste Salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the paneer

    Cut the paneer into 1-inch cubes. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

    Time: PT3M

  2. Heat oil

    Pour 50 ml oil into a frying pan and heat over medium flame.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Fry the paneer

    Add the paneer cubes to the hot oil. Fry for 15-20 seconds, then turn to ensure even browning. Continue frying until golden brown (about 2 minutes total). Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

    Time: PT3M

  4. Prepare masala base

    In the same pan, add 2 tbsp more oil if needed. Add the chopped garlic and sauté until golden brown and fragrant (about 1 minute).

    Time: PT2M

  5. Add onion

    Add the finely chopped onion to the pan. Sauté until golden brown (about 5 minutes).

    Time: PT5M

  6. Add spices

    Reduce heat to low. Add red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir well and cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.

    Time: PT1M

  7. Combine paneer with masala

    Return the fried paneer cubes to the pan. Toss gently to coat the paneer with the masala. Cook for 2-3 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally.

    Time: PT3M

  8. Serve

    Transfer the paneer masala to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot as a starter.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
320
Protein
14g
Carbohydrates
10g
Fat
25g
Fiber
2g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, low-carb, keto-friendly, low-calorie

Allergens: Dairy

Last updated: April 7, 2026

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Succulent Golden Paneer Masala (Indian Starter)

A juicy, golden-fried paneer starter tossed in a flavorful onion-garlic masala, perfect for evening snacks or party appetizers. This recipe yields soft, crispy-edged paneer bites coated in a rich, aromatic masala.

MediumIndianServes 3

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Source Video
4m
Prep
16m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
30m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$5.55
Total cost
$1.85
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Frying paneer to golden brown without overcooking.
  • Sautéing garlic and onion to the right color and flavor.
  • Blooming spices without burning.
  • Gently tossing paneer in masala to avoid breaking.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can splatter; use caution when frying.
  • Allow oil to cool before discarding or cleaning.
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