Name: A Flavor Explosion! Paneer 65 That Will Steal the Show!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 2 tbsp Rice Flour; 2 tbsp Corn Flour; 2 tbsp Kashmiri Chilli Powder; 0.75 tsp Coriander Powder; 0.5 tsp Garam Masala; 0.5 tsp Pepper Powder; 0.25 tsp Cumin Powder; 0.5 tsp Salt; 1 tbsp Lemon Juice; 2 tbsp Curd; 1 tsp Ginger-Garlic Paste; 2 tbsp Coriander Leaves; 2 tbsp Oil; 0.25 cup Water; 200 gm Paneer; 2 cups Oil; 2 tbsp Oil; 3 tbsp Chopped Garlic; 4 Green Chilli; 2 dry Red Chilli; 2 sprigs of curry Leaves; 2 Pinch of Salt; 0.25 tsp Chaat Masala; 1 tbsp Coriander Leaves

Paneer 65 is one of the most loved and irresistible Indian appetizers that’s bold, spicy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re craving a crispy paneer starter or looking to impress guests with a vibrant party snack, this dish never fails to satisfy. It’s a must-try paneer recipe that delivers both crunch and heat in every bite.

Table of Contents

Known as a classic South Indian starter recipe, Paneer 65 is made with paneer cubes that are coated in spices, fried until golden, and then tossed in an aromatic tempering of garlic, green chillies, and curry leaves. It’s the perfect appetizer to kick off any meal and adds excitement to every festive table.

A Restaurant-Style Treat at Home

Replicating restaurant-quality food at home may seem tricky, but this one breaks that myth. The key is the marinade – a flavorful blend of curd, Kashmiri chili powder for vibrant color, and a few pantry spices like coriander powder, cumin, and garam masala. A bit of lemon juice adds a touch of tang, while rice flour and corn flour contribute to the signature crispiness.

The marinated cubes are deep-fried until golden and crisp. That step alone elevates the dish into an irresistible snack. But it doesn’t stop there. A quick stir fry in hot oil with garlic, green chilies, curry leaves, and a sprinkle of chaat masala adds layers of texture and depth.

Spicy Paneer Delight for Every Occasion

Whether you’re preparing for a family get-together or a casual evening meal, this dish fits right in. It offers the perfect combination of crunchy, spicy, and savory notes. Served hot, it’s a hit among both kids and adults.

Its bright red appearance and bold flavor profile are reminiscent of popular South Indian street food stalls. That’s why it works so well as an appetizer before a main course or as a standalone evening indulgence. The kick of heat, balanced with yogurt and fresh coriander, makes it addictive in the best way.

Ideal Choice for Vegetarians

This is a must-have in every vegetarian’s snack arsenal. Unlike some fried snacks that rely heavily on bread or potatoes, this one gets its protein boost from paneer, making it more satisfying. It’s a welcome change from usual options like samosas or pakoras.

Additionally, it doesn’t need any special ingredients or lengthy prep. Most of what you need is likely already in your kitchen. This makes it a go-to option when you’re short on time but still want something special on the table.

South Indian Street-Style Twist

What sets this dish apart from regular fried cubes is the South Indian-inspired tempering. Once fried, the cubes are tossed in a mixture of garlic, chilies, and curry leaves. This step enhances the aroma and adds a street-style flair.

The final touch – a sprinkle of chaat masala and fresh coriander – ties all the flavors together. It’s this finishing touch that makes it taste just like your favorite restaurant or street vendor version.

Easy to Customize

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to adapt. Want it less spicy? Reduce the number of chillies or skip the pepper powder. Prefer air frying? That works too – just coat the cubes well and air fry them until crisp.

You can also add a dash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lime in the final stir fry for a fusion twist. Some even like to serve it with a spicy mayo or mint chutney dip on the side. The possibilities are endless.

Great for Kids and Lunchboxes

Thanks to its vibrant color and bite-sized appeal, this dish is especially popular with kids. Serve it in lunchboxes or as an after-school snack, and watch it disappear quickly. Since paneer is rich in calcium and protein, you can feel good about serving it regularly.

If you’re packing it for a lunchbox, you can slightly under-fry the cubes so they remain soft longer. Pair it with roti or even tuck it into a wrap with some fresh veggies and sauce.

Popular Paneer Snack Across India

From street-side eateries in Chennai to high-end buffets in Mumbai, this spicy fried snack has earned its place on menus across India. It’s especially loved for its bold, crowd-pleasing flavors and versatility. No wonder it’s often requested at weddings, family functions, and even kitty parties.

It’s also a favorite for Diwali, Holi, and birthday parties – not only because it’s quick to prepare in bulk, but also because it’s always a hit with guests. If you’re planning a get-together, this recipe should definitely be on your menu.

Perfect Companion for Chutneys and Dips

While it tastes amazing on its own, this dish pairs beautifully with a variety of dips. Green mint chutney brings a refreshing contrast. Tamarind chutney adds sweetness to balance the heat. Even something as simple as tomato ketchup works great.

For a modern twist, try serving it with garlic aioli or spiced yogurt dip. If you’re presenting it at a party, offer a dip platter on the side – your guests will love the variety.

Healthier Options Available

If you’re health-conscious but still crave fried food occasionally, this dish can be made with much less oil. Use an air fryer or bake the marinated cubes in a preheated oven until crispy. Just spray a little oil to retain moisture and crunch.

You can also substitute regular paneer with low-fat paneer or tofu for a lighter version. Either way, the spices and coating do the heavy lifting, so the taste remains top-notch.

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Final Thoughts

This recipe is one of those timeless favorites that blends comfort, crunch, and spice in every bite. It’s ideal for beginners in the kitchen and also rewarding for seasoned home cooks. The balance of texture and flavor makes it worth every step.

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to prepare, deeply satisfying, and full of flavor, this is the one to try. Whether it’s for a weekend treat or a festive occasion, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles to the table.

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