Name: Spicy Paneer Frankie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 250 g paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cut into strips; 1 tablespoon oil or ghee; 1 medium onion, thinly sliced; 1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste; 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat); ½ teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon red chili powder; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon cumin powder; Salt, to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of ½ lemon; 4 parathas or rotis (store-bought or homemade); 2 tablespoons green chutney (mint-coriander); 2 tablespoons tamarind chutney (optional, for tanginess); Sliced onions, for topping; Chaat masala, for sprinkling

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If you’re craving a fun, flavor-packed handheld meal that brings a taste of Indian street food right to your kitchen, the Spicy Paneer Frankie is about to become your new obsession. Imagine succulent paneer marinated in aromatic spices, sizzled with vibrant veggies, then tucked into a tender paratha slathered with zesty chutneys. This irresistible wrap is equal parts comforting, portable, and customizable—perfect for lunchboxes, picnic spreads, or whenever you want a quick and deeply satisfying bite. If you love bold flavors and crave a bit of spice in your life, the Spicy Paneer Frankie is a must-try recipe you’ll want to make on repeat!

Spicy Paneer Frankie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this Spicy Paneer Frankie is a breeze—the magic really lies in how each one contributes to the color, flavor, and satisfying texture of the final wrap. These essentials work together in perfect harmony to create an unforgettable street-style experience.

Paneer (250 g): The star protein, paneer is creamy and rich, soaking up all the spices for the ultimate filling.
Oil or Ghee (1 tbsp): Choose ghee for classic flavor or oil to keep it light and vegan.
Onion (1 medium, sliced): Adds sweetness and gentle crunch, anchoring the filling.
Green Bell Pepper (1 small, sliced): Brightens the mix with its subtle peppery bite.
Ginger-Garlic Paste (1 tsp): The base of so many Indian dishes—it brings warmth, aroma, and depth.
Green Chili (1, finely chopped): Optional, but if you love heat, it takes things up a notch!
Turmeric Powder (½ tsp): Delivers earthy flavor and beautiful golden color.
Red Chili Powder (1 tsp): Lends the filling that signature spicy kick.
Garam Masala (1 tsp): A heady blend of spices, garam masala gives complexity and warmth.
Cumin Powder (1 tsp): Adds a deep, nutty earthiness that rounds out the flavors.
Salt (to taste): Essential for making every flavor pop.
Fresh Cilantro (2 tbsp, chopped): Brings a burst of color and herby freshness.
Lemon Juice (from ½ lemon): A squeeze of brightness lifts all the spices.
Parathas or Rotis (4): The soft, pliable wraps that hold everything together. Use homemade or convenient store-bought.
Green Chutney (2 tbsp): Tangy, herby, and spicy—this chutney paints every bite with fresh flavor.
Tamarind Chutney (2 tbsp, optional): If you love a sweet-tangy note, this is your secret weapon.
Sliced Onions (for topping): Crisp, cool, and slightly sharp, they add contrast to the spiced filling.
Chaat Masala (for sprinkling): This tangy spice blend gives the finishing touch and true street-food flair.

How to Make Spicy Paneer Frankie

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating your oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Once it shimmers, toss in those sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for just 2 to 3 minutes—you’re looking for that sweet spot where they’re slightly softened but still have a gentle crunch. This sets the stage with sweetness and body for your Spicy Paneer Frankie filling.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Heat

Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chili to the pan, stirring until that incredible aroma hits your senses (about 30 seconds). This is the backbone of your flavor, laying down earthy and peppery notes that will permeate every bite.

Step 3: Season with Spices

Now stir in the turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, cumin powder, and a sprinkle of salt. Let the spices cook for just half a minute—this bloom brings out their vibrant color and fragrance, turning your kitchen into a street-food stall!

Step 4: Cook the Paneer

Add the paneer strips, tossing gently to coat them with all those incredible flavors. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the paneer is warmed through and starts turning slightly golden. Fold in the lemon juice and fresh cilantro right at the end for a burst of brightness; then, take the pan off the heat.

Step 5: Warm the Parathas or Rotis

Quickly heat each paratha or roti on a hot skillet until they’re soft and pliable. This is a crucial (but often skipped!) detail—warm, flexible bread means your Spicy Paneer Frankie rolls up tightly and doesn’t tear.

Step 6: Assemble and Roll

Spread a generous layer of green chutney across each warm paratha. If you’re after maximum flavor, add a bit of tamarind chutney, too. Spoon the fragrant paneer filling in the center, top with extra sliced onions, and finish with a dusting of chaat masala. Roll each one up snugly—the moment of truth! Serve them hot for the ultimate experience.

How to Serve Spicy Paneer Frankie

Garnishes

The right garnish makes every Spicy Paneer Frankie extra special. Scatter with chopped fresh cilantro, tuck in a few mint leaves for pop, or add thinly sliced raw onions splash with a touch of lime juice over the top for a classic Mumbai street food feel. That finishing chaat masala sprinkle is non-negotiable for true Frankie fans!

Side Dishes

While the Spicy Paneer Frankie is totally satisfying on its own, you can round out your meal with cool raita or plain yogurt, a fresh cucumber-carrot salad, or crispy masala potato chips. For a true feast, offer extra green chutney on the side for dipping.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the (lunch)box! You can slice each Spicy Paneer Frankie into bite-size pieces secured with toothpicks as a fun party snack, or wrap them in parchment for picnic portability. Stack them on a platter with lime wedges and a rainbow of extra chutneys for a stunning, interactive centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Spicy Paneer Frankie filling, let it cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. Keep parathas and chutneys separate to avoid sogginess, and simply assemble fresh when you’re ready to eat.

Freezing

While fully assembled Spicy Paneer Frankies are best enjoyed fresh, the filling itself can be frozen! Place cooled paneer filling in a freezer-safe bag or container, freeze for up to one month, and always label with the date so nothing gets lost to freezer limbo.

Reheating

To reheat, let frozen filling thaw overnight in the fridge. Warm it gently in a nonstick skillet or the microwave. For parathas, a quick reheat on a skillet restores their softness. Then just assemble for a hot and hearty Frankie in no time.

FAQs

Can I make this Spicy Paneer Frankie vegan?

Absolutely! Simply swap out paneer for firm tofu, and use oil instead of ghee. All the bold, spicy flavors will still shine right through.

How can I prevent my Frankies from getting soggy?

The secret is to keep chutneys to a thin layer and always assemble just before serving. If packing for lunch, wrap them in parchment and keep chutneys in a separate container to add right before eating.

Do I have to use paratha, or will regular roti work?

Both are delicious! Parathas give you a slightly crisp, flaky wrap whereas rotis are lighter and softer. Use whichever you have on hand, or try both to see which is your favorite for your Spicy Paneer Frankie.

Can I add extra vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Grated carrots, shredded cabbage, or even baby spinach wilted in at the end add fresh flavor, crunch, and an extra burst of color to your Frankies.

Is the Spicy Paneer Frankie very hot?

You can totally control the spice level. Adjust the amount of green chili and red chili powder to suit your taste—or leave out the chili altogether for a milder, family-friendly wrap.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a quick meal that’s loaded with flavor, texture, and that unmistakable street-food magic, the Spicy Paneer Frankie is calling your name. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to become a star at your table—so go ahead, roll one up and enjoy every delicious bite!