Are you looking for a quick and easy way to prepare a healthy and delicious dinner? Look no further! Air fryer paneer recipes are the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Paneer, a type of Indian cheese, is incredibly versatile and absorbs flavors beautifully. This method ensures crispy, golden-brown paneer every time, with minimal oil. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these fantastic air fryer paneer recipes!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
- 1 lb paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/4 tsp coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Paneer: Pat the paneer cubes dry with a paper towel. This helps them crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
- Marinate the Paneer: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, garam masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Add the paneer cubes and toss gently to coat them evenly with the spice mixture. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the paneer, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Air Fry the Paneer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the marinated paneer cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; work in batches if necessary. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the paneer is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. This delicious air fryer paneer is fantastic as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger meal. It pairs perfectly with rice, naan bread, or roti.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Paneer:
- Don't overcrowd the basket: Overcrowding will prevent the paneer from crisping up properly. Work in batches for best results.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model and the size of your paneer cubes. Keep an eye on the paneer and adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to experiment with different spice combinations to create your own unique flavor profiles. Consider adding ginger powder, garlic powder, or even a pinch of asafoetida.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Paneer: Increase the amount of red chili powder for a spicier kick. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Sweet and Spicy Paneer: Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a sweet and spicy combination.
- Garlic and Herb Paneer: Replace some of the spices with minced garlic and your favorite herbs, such as oregano or thyme.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-180
- Protein: Approximately 10-12g
- Fat: Approximately 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-3g
This easy recipe showcases how quickly and easily you can create healthy meals. Air fryer paneer is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways, making it a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking solutions. Enjoy!