Paneer Golden Fry is a delightful and crispy snack that combines the goodness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with a golden, crunchy exterior. This easy-to-make dish is loved by children and adults alike, making it a perfect addition to your snack menu. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing an after-school snack, or looking for something to serve with tea, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 250g Paneer (cubed)
- 2 tablespoons Cornflour
- 1 tablespoon Rice flour (optional, for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon Red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon Garam masala
- 1 teaspoon Chat masala
- 1 tablespoon Ginger-garlic paste
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Paneer:
- Cut the paneer into bite-sized cubes. Make sure the paneer is fresh, as it will give a better texture and taste.
- Marinate the Paneer:
- In a bowl, add the paneer cubes and mix in the ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, chat masala, and salt.
- Add lemon juice and mix well to coat all the pieces evenly. Let the paneer marinate for at least 15-20 minutes. You can even refrigerate it for longer if you prefer a stronger flavor.
- Coat the Paneer:
- In a separate shallow plate, mix the cornflour and rice flour. These flours help to give the crispy texture to the paneer when fried.
- Roll each marinated paneer cube into the flour mixture, ensuring that each piece is fully coated.
- Fry the Paneer:
- Heat oil in a frying pan on medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to fry the paneer but not smoking.
- Carefully place the coated paneer cubes into the hot oil. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry the cubes until they turn golden brown and crispy. This should take around 4-5 minutes. Keep turning them occasionally to ensure they fry evenly on all sides.
- Drain Excess Oil:
- Once fried, remove the paneer from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve hot with green chutney, tamarind chutney, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for the Perfect Paneer Golden Fry:
- If you prefer a spicier kick, you can adjust the amount of red chili powder or add chopped green chilies to the marinade.
- For extra crispiness, you can also add a little bit of rice flour along with the cornflour.
- Be sure to fry the paneer on medium heat so that the outside becomes crispy without the inside becoming too hard.
- You can also bake the paneer if you prefer a healthier version. Just preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F) and bake the paneer for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Why Kids Love Paneer Golden Fry:
Paneer Golden Fry is not just delicious; it’s also nutritious. Paneer is a great source of protein, making it an excellent option for growing children. The crunchy exterior combined with the soft, mild, and creamy interior is something kids find especially appealing. The spices are mild yet flavorful, making it a perfect snack that won’t overwhelm young palates.
Conclusion:
Paneer Golden Fry is a simple, quick, and satisfying snack that will please anyone, from kids to adults. Whether served as an appetizer, a tea-time snack, or a party starter, this recipe is a hit every time. Try it at home and enjoy this golden, crispy delight with your family and friends!
