Spicy Paneer Chingari Recipe : If you’re a vegetarian craving something bold and spicy, paneer (Indian cottage cheese) is often the go-to ingredient. While classics like Shahi Paneer and Kadhai Paneer are delicious, they often lack the fiery kick some food lovers crave. Enter Paneer Chingari—a sizzling, smoky, and intensely flavorful dish that lives up to its name (Chingari means “spark” in Hindi). Once you try this recipe, your taste buds won’t forget the explosion of flavors!
How to Make Paneer Chingari (Step-by-Step Recipe)
Ingredients:
200g paneer (100g for paste, 100g for frying)
¾ cup milk
2 tbsp oil + 2 tsp butter
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
1-inch ginger (finely chopped)
1 green chili (chopped)
½ onion (chopped) + extra for garnish
Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
½ tsp cumin powder
½ tsp garam masala
½ tsp black pepper powder
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chili powder
Salt to taste
1 capsicum (sliced)
1-2 tsp sesame seeds
½ lemon (juiced)
Method:
Prepare Paneer Paste:
Crumble 100g paneer and blend it with ¾ cup milk into a smooth paste. Set aside.
Make the Spicy Gravy:
Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds, kasuri methi, chopped ginger, green chili, and onions. Sauté until golden.
Add chopped coriander, cumin powder, garam masala, black pepper, and salt. Cook until fragrant.
Pour in the paneer-milk paste and stir well. Cook until the gravy thickens, then set aside.
Sizzle the Paneer & Veggies:
In another pan, heat 2 tsp oil and 1 tsp butter. Add kasuri methi, sesame seeds, sliced onions, and capsicum.
Toss in 100g paneer cubes and fry on high heat for 1 minute.
Sprinkle turmeric, red chili powder, salt, coriander, and lemon juice. Mix well.
Combine & Serve:
Add the fried paneer and veggies to the gravy. Mix gently.
Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with roti or paratha.
Why This Recipe Works?
Perfect Heat Balance: The blend of green chili, red chili powder, and black pepper delivers a lingering spiciness.
Smoky Aroma: Kasuri methi and sesame seeds add a deep, nutty flavor.
Creamy & Crunchy Texture: The paneer paste makes the gravy rich, while fried paneer adds a delightful bite.