Description
Spiced Paneer Ghee Roast is a flavorful, aromatic dish that takes the soft and creamy texture of paneer and elevates it with a blend of warm spices, ghee (clarified butter), and a touch of heat. This dish is inspired by the famous Mangalorean Ghee Roast, where the richness of ghee and the boldness of spices come together to create an unforgettable experience. Perfectly roasted and infused with spices, Spiced Paneer Ghee Roast is a great appetizer or side dish for any Indian meal, and it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who loves vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 250g paneer, cubed
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- 1–2 green chilies, slit (optional, for added heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing) (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the paneer: Cut the paneer into 1-inch cubes. If you prefer firmer paneer, you can lightly pan-fry or grill it before using it in this recipe, but this step is optional.
- Make the spice mix: In a small bowl, combine the cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.
- Cook the spices in ghee: In a large pan or skillet, heat the ghee over medium heat. Once the ghee is hot, add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the spices: Add the spice mix to the pan and stir well. Cook the spices in the ghee for another 2-3 minutes until they release their aroma and begin to darken slightly. Be careful not to burn the spices.
- Cook the paneer: Add the paneer cubes to the pan and gently toss them in the spice mixture. Ensure that the paneer is evenly coated with the ghee and spices. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the paneer cubes are golden and crispy on all sides.
- Add lemon juice and garnish: Once the paneer is roasted and nicely caramelized, add the lemon juice for a touch of tang. Give everything one final toss, and then remove the pan from the heat.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and, if desired, slit green chilies for added heat. Serve the Spiced Paneer Ghee Roast hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Notes
- Spicy version: For an extra kick, increase the amount of red chili powder or add extra green chilies when cooking the paneer. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Vegan option: Replace the paneer with tofu for a plant-based version of this dish.
- Additional toppings: Garnish with roasted nuts like cashews or almonds for added crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
