Paneer 65 is a popular Indian appetizer or snack that is similar to chicken 65 but made with paneer, a type of Indian cottage cheese. It is a vegetarian version of the popular dish that is loved by many people in India and other parts of the world.
To prepare this dish, paneer cubes are marinated in a blend of spices, including chilli powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, ginger-garlic paste, and salt. The marinated paneer is then deep-fried till crispy and golden brown in a batter comprised of cornflour, all-purpose flour, rice flour, and spices.
Paneer 65 is usually served with a side of sliced onions, lemon wedges, and mint-coriander chutney. It is a delicious and spicy snack that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or as a main course with roti or naan.
Ingredients for Paneer 65:
- 250g paneer, cut into cubes
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tbsp cornflour
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp rice flour
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- Oil, for deep-frying
- Sliced onions and lemon wedges, for serving
- Mint-coriander chutney, for serving
Instructions for Paneer 65:
- Combine the salt, ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and ingredients in a bowl. To evenly coat the paneer, add the cubes of paneer to the bowl and mix well.
- Set aside for 30 minutes to marinate.
- Corn flour, all-purpose flour, rice flour, baking powder, and salt are all combined in a separate bowl.
- Mix well to make a smooth batter, gradually add water and mix well. The hitter ought to be sufficiently thick to cover the paneer blocks.
- Heat oil in a profound griddle over medium-high intensity.
- The marinated paneer cubes should be thoroughly coated in the batter.
- Fry the paneer cubes until golden brown and crispy by dropping them gently into the hot oil. Drain off the oil using paper towels.
- serve immediately with mint-coriander chutney, lemon wedges, and sliced onions. Enjoy your mouthwatering Paneer 65!
Serving suggestion
- Serve Paneer 65 hot with sliced onions, lemon wedges, and mint-coriander chutney on the side. You can also garnish it with chopped coriander leaves and serve it on a platter.
- Serve It with roti, naan, or rice. You can also serve it with a side of dal (lentil soup) and a vegetable dish for a complete meal.
- You can also use Paneer 65 as a filling for wraps or sandwiches. Just add some sliced onions, lettuce, and mint-coriander chutney to a wrap or sandwich bread, and stuff it with Paneer 65 cubes. It makes a delicious and filling snack or lunch option.
Tips and variations
- Make sure to marinate the paneer cubes for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to enter and flavor the cheese.
- To make the batter crispier, whisk in a small amount of hot oil before dipping the paneer cubes.
- When frying the paneer cubes, do not overcrowd the frying pan, as this may lower the temperature of the oil and make the paneer mushy.
- Add some chopped onions, capsicum, or tomatoes to the marination for a more flavorful Paneer 65.
- You can also use yogurt instead of water to make the batter for a tangy taste.
- For a vegan version, you can use tofu instead of paneer and follow the same recipe.
- Baking method: Instead of deep-frying, you can also bake the paneer cubes in the oven for a healthier option. Just coat the marinated paneer cubes in the batter and bake them in a preheated oven at 200°C for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
