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Crispy Paneer in 10 Minutes

Crispy Paneer Recipe

Ellie Williams
A quick and delicious paneer snack that’s crispy outside and soft inside, made in just 10 minutes with basic spices and no deep frying. Perfect for tea-time, party starters, or a protein-rich bite.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine Asian, Indian
Servings 2 People
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 200 g paneer cut into cubes or fingers
  • 2 tbsp cornflour
  • 1 tbsp rice flour for extra crispiness
  • ½ tsp red chili powder
  • ½ tsp chaat masala
  • ¼ tsp turmeric powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tbsp curd or lemon juice optional for slight tang
  • 2-3 tbsp water to coat
  • 2 tbsp oil for shallow frying

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep the Paneer

  • Cut your paneer into medium-sized cubes or fingers. If using frozen paneer, soak in warm water for 10 minutes to soften, then pat dry.

Step 2: Mix the Quick Marinade

  • In a mixing bowl, add:
    Cornflour
    Rice flour
    Red chili powder
    Turmeric
    Chaat masala
    Salt
    Ginger-garlic paste
    Curd or lemon juice (optional)
    Add just enough water to make a thick paste—like a coating batter, not too runny.

Step 3: Coat and Toss

  • Add the paneer cubes into the bowl and gently toss until each piece is coated well with the spice mix.

Step 4: Sizzle Time!

  • Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a non-stick pan or tawa over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the coated paneer pieces one by one.
    Shallow-fry for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden, crisp, and slightly charred.

Step 5: Serve Hot & Garnish

  • Once done, place the crispy paneer on a plate lined with tissue to absorb excess oil.
    Sprinkle a pinch of chaat masala on top. Garnish with chopped coriander, onion rings, and a squeeze of lemon.

Notes

Quick Tips

  • No rice flour? Use all-purpose flour instead, but rice flour gives better crunch.
  • No cornflour? Replace with arrowroot powder or besan (gram flour) for a slightly different texture.
  • Want baked? Air-fry or bake at 200°C for 10 minutes for a healthier version.