Chilli Paneer (Restaurant-Style)

by Has Chauhan-12 July 2026Medium

Prep Time20 min

Cook Time15 min

Total Time35 min

Servings6

Crispy paneer cubes wok-fried in a chilli and garlic sauce with crunchy peppers and onions. A real Indo-Chinese crowd pleaser and Indian restaurant favourite. This dish is perfect as an appetizer, or as part of a larger meal with rice or noodles.

Method

0
Cut the paneer into 1cm cubes. Place into a bowl. Pour enough boiling water over the paneer to cover. Allow to stand for 10-15 minutes. Drain well.
1
In a large sandwich bag, combine cornflour, white pepper, and salt. Add the paneer and shake to coat all pieces.
2
Heat oil for deep frying in a pan or wok to 180C.
3
Fry the paneer in small batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain well.
4
Mix cornflour and water in a small bowl before stir frying.
5
Pre-heat a wok over high heat for 3-4 minutes until smoking hot.
6
Add oil, garlic, and chillies to the wok. Sizzle for a few seconds, then add peppers, red onions, and spring onions. Stir fry for 30 seconds.
7
Add light and dark soy sauce, vinegar, MSG, and sugar. Sauté for 30 seconds.
8
Add the slurry to the wok and cook for 20 seconds.
9
Add the paneer and reserved spring onion greens to the wok and toss to coat.
10
Serve with crunchy iceberg lettuce.