Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This paneer air fryer recipe delivers perfectly crispy paneer cubes with minimal oil, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Forget greasy frying; this method is a game-changer for achieving that satisfying crunch without the added calories. It's a fantastic option for busy weeknights, perfect for a quick lunch, or even a tasty appetizer. This easy recipe is ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks, guaranteeing a flavorful and satisfying meal every time.
Ingredients:
- 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp oil (vegetable or canola)
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/4 tsp garam masala
- 1/4 tsp cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves (cilantro), chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Paneer: Pat the paneer cubes dry with a paper towel. This is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior. Excess moisture will prevent browning.
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Marinate the Paneer: In a bowl, combine the oil, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, and salt. Add the paneer cubes and toss gently to coat them evenly with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be!
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Air Fry the Paneer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F). Arrange the marinated paneer cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; work in batches if necessary for even cooking.
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Cook the Paneer: Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the paneer is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot. This delicious paneer is perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. It pairs beautifully with rice, roti, naan, or even a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Paneer:
- Dry Paneer is Key: Thoroughly patting the paneer dry is essential for achieving that crispy texture.
- Don't Overcrowd the Basket: Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation, resulting in uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Shake the Basket: Shaking the basket halfway through ensures even browning and crisping on all sides.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder according to your spice preference. You can also add other spices like coriander powder or paprika for different flavor profiles.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Paneer: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few chopped green chilies to the marinade for extra heat.
- Garlic and Herb Paneer: Replace the garam masala with Italian seasoning or herbs like oregano and thyme for a Mediterranean twist.
- Sweet and Spicy Paneer: Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a sweet and savory combination.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients used and serving size. However, as a general guide, a serving of air-fried paneer offers a good source of protein and is relatively lower in fat compared to deep-fried paneer.
This air fryer paneer recipe is a fantastic example of quick, healthy, and delicious homemade cooking. Enjoy this easy and flavorful dish!