Description
Paneer Chilli is a popular Indo-Chinese fusion dish that features cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) tossed in a spicy, tangy, and savory sauce, stir-fried with bell peppers, onions, and green chilies. This dish combines the soft texture of paneer with the bold flavors of soy sauce, garlic, and chili, creating a delicious appetizer or side dish. Paneer Chilli can be made in two styles: dry (served as a starter) or gravy (served with fried rice or noodles). It’s a favorite in restaurants and street food stalls alike.
- Flavor Profile:
A perfect combination of spicy, tangy, and savory, with the heat from chilies, the umami of soy sauce, and the richness of paneer. - Texture Contrast:
Crispy, shallow-fried or deep-fried paneer cubes paired with crunchy stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers and onions add a delightful texture contrast. - Two Variations:
- Dry Paneer Chilli: Ideal as an appetizer or snack, where the sauce is thick and coats the paneer.
- Paneer Chilli Gravy: Features more sauce and is often paired with fried rice or noodles.
- Paneer as the Star Ingredient:
Paneer is lightly fried for a crispy exterior while keeping its soft and creamy interior, making it the star of this dish. - Indo-Chinese Fusion:
The dish combines Indian paneer with Chinese sauces and stir-fry techniques, blending the best of both cuisines.