Succulent Golden Paneer Masala (Indian Starter)

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

Ingredient Substitutions

• Instead of Paneer: Firm tofu (for vegan option)
• Instead of Oil: Ghee, Vegetable oil
• Instead of Garlic: Garlic paste
• Instead of Onion: Shallots
• Instead of Red chili powder: Paprika (for less heat)
• Instead of Garam masala: Curry powder

Equipment Needed

• Frying pan or skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Mixing bowl (optional)
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Paper towels (optional)

Critical Steps — Do Not Skip

• 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.

Chef Tips from the Video

• Use fresh, high-quality paneer for best results.
• For extra flavor, marinate paneer in a pinch of salt and chili powder for 10 minutes before frying.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness.

Troubleshooting

Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Freezer: Not recommended; paneer texture may suffer.

Room temperature: Keep covered for up to 2 hours.

Make-Ahead Tips

• You can fry the paneer up to 1 day ahead and refrigerate. Toss in masala just before serving.