Paneer Pakora Recipe (Easy and Quick to Make)

Paneer Pakora is a crispy and tasty Indian snack made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and gram flour (besan). The word "Pakora" comes from Sanskrit, meaning "a small lump of fried batter." Traditional pakoras were made with vegetables like potatoes, onions, and spinach. Over time, people started using paneer because of its soft texture and mild taste, which goes well with spices. The best part about Paneer pakora is that it takes very little time to prepare, and you don’t need many ingredients. You can serve it with green Chutney, tamarind chutney, or ketchup for extra flavor.

What is Paneer Pakora Recipe?

Paneer itself has been a part of Indian cooking for centuries and is loved in many dishes. Paneer Pakora is a crispy and tasty Indian snack that is very easy to make at home.

To make paneer pakora, you first cut paneer into cubes or slices. Then, you prepare a thick batter using gram flour, water, and spices like red chili powder, turmeric, cumin, and salt. Some people also add ginger, garlic, or carom seeds (ajwain) for extra flavor. The paneer pieces are dipped into this batter and then deep-fried in hot oil until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Paneer pakoras are best served hot with green Chutney, tamarind chutney, or tomato ketchup. They taste delicious with a cup of hot tea or coffee. Some people like to sprinkle chaat masala on top to enhance the flavor.

How to Make Paneer Pakora

Making Paneer Pakora at home is very easy and takes just a few simple steps. In this step-by-step guide, we will show you how to make perfect Paneer Pakoras with easy instructions. Follow along and enjoy this delicious snack with your favorite chutney or sauce.

Prepare the Batter

Step 1:- Take a large mixing bowl. Add gram flour (besan), red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, carom seeds (if using), garam masala, salt, and ginger-garlic paste. Mix all the dry ingredients well.

Step 2:- Gradually add small amounts of water while stirring continuously. Mix until a smooth and thick batter is formed. The batter should not be too thin or watery, It should also not be too thick. The right consistency is like a pancake batter.

Step 3:- Cut the Paneer into cubes or slices, as per your preference. Dip each piece of paneer into the prepared batter, ensuring it is fully coated.

Fry Paneer Pakora

Step 4:- Take a deep frying pan or kadhai and pour enough oil for deep frying. Heat the oil on medium flame.

Step 5:- To check if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of batter into it. If it rises to the surface immediately, the oil is hot enough. If it sinks, let the oil heat up more.

Step 6:- Lift the batter-coated paneer pieces out with a spoon or your fingers. Let the excess batter drip off. Carefully place the batter-coated paneer pieces into the hot oil, one by one.

Step 7:- Fry them in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Keep the flame on medium heat to ensure the pakoras cook evenly. Stir occasionally to make sure all sides turn golden brown and crispy.

Step 8:- Once they are golden brown, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil. Place the fried paneer pakoras on a plate lined with a paper towel.

This will help absorb excess oil and keep them crispy.

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Serving Suggestions

Paneer Pakora tastes best when served fresh and hot. You can enjoy it in many different ways, depending on your taste and the occasion. Here are some delicious serving ideas to make your snack time even better.

1. Serve with Chutneys for Extra Flavor. Paneer Pakoras taste even better when paired with delicious chutneys. Here are some great options:

Green Chutney (Mint & Coriander Chutney): A fresh and tangy chutney made with mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, lemon juice, and salt.
Tamarind Chutney: A sweet and tangy chutney made with tamarind pulp, jaggery (or sugar), and spices.
Garlic Chutney: A spicy and bold chutney made with garlic, red chilies, and tomatoes.
Coconut Chutney: A mild and creamy chutney made with coconut, green chilies, and yogurt.

2. Enjoy with Hot Beverages. Paneer Pakora is a perfect tea-time snack. Here are some great options:

Masala Chai (Spiced Indian Tea): The strong flavors of chai go well with the crispy pakoras.
Coffee: A cup of hot coffee makes a great combination with pakoras.
Herbal Tea: If you prefer a healthy option, enjoy your pakoras with green tea, ginger tea, or lemon tea.

3. Make a Pakora Platter. For parties or special occasions, serve Paneer Pakora along with other pakoras to make a mixed platter:

Mix with Vegetable Pakoras: Serve paneer pakoras with potato pakoras, onion pakoras, and spinach pakoras for variety.
Add Chaat Style Toppings: Sprinkle chopped onions, coriander leaves, and a little chaat masala on top of the pakoras. Drizzle some tamarind chutney and yogurt for a chaat-style dish.

4. Pair with Side Dishes. If you want to make your meal more filling, serve paneer pakoras with:

Pav (Soft Indian Bread): Serve hot pakoras inside a buttered pav (bread roll) for a delicious street-style snack.
Fried Rice or Noodles: Enjoy with Indo-Chinese dishes like fried rice or Hakka noodles.
Dal and Roti: Serve pakoras as a side dish with dal (lentils) and roti for a comforting meal.

5. Paneer Pakoras are a great choice for parties and get-togethers. To make them more exciting:

Use Toothpicks: Insert a toothpick into each pakora and serve as finger food.
Sprinkle Some Cheese: Grate some cheese over hot pakoras for a rich and cheesy flavor.
Serve with Spicy Dip: Offer a spicy mayonnaise or yogurt dip along with chutneys.

6. For a quick meal, turn paneer pakoras into a filling dish:

Paneer Pakora Wrap: Place pakoras inside a roti or tortilla with salad and chutney, then roll it up for a tasty wrap.
Pakora Sandwich: Take bread slices, spread chutney, place pakoras inside, and toast it for a crunchy and delicious sandwich.

7. Enjoy with Yogurt or Raita. For a cool and refreshing combination, serve pakoras with:

Boondi Raita: A yogurt-based side dish with crispy boondi and mild spices.
Cucumber Raita: Yogurt mixed with grated cucumber, mint, and black salt.
Spicy Masala Yogurt: Thick yogurt mixed with roasted cumin powder, chaat masala, and chopped coriander.

8. Add a Squeeze of Lemon. Before serving, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the pakoras. This enhances the flavor and gives a tangy twist.

Paneer Pakoras can be enjoyed in many ways, whether as a snack, appetizer, or even a meal. Try different serving ideas and enjoy this crispy, tasty treat with your favorite dips and sides.

Expert Tips

Paneer Pakora is a simple and tasty snack, but following some expert tips will make it even better. Here are detailed tips to help you make the crispiest, most flavorful, and perfect paneer pakoras every time.

1. Use Fresh and Soft Paneer:- Always use fresh paneer for the best texture and taste. If the paneer is store-bought and feels hard, soak it in warm water for 10 minutes. This makes it soft and helps it absorb flavors better. Homemade paneer works great for pakoras because it is softer and fresher.

2. Cut Paneer into the Right Size:- Cut paneer into equal-sized cubes, thick slices, or strips. If the pieces are too thin, they may break while frying. If too thick, they might not absorb flavors well. For extra taste, you can cut the paneer in half and stuff it with mint chutney before coating it in batter.

3. Make a Perfect Batter:- The batter should be thick enough to coat the paneer well but not too thick. If the batter is too thin, it will slide off the paneer, and if it is too thick, the pakoras will be heavy and floury. To get the right consistency, slowly add water to the gram flour (besan) while mixing. It should be smooth, without lumps.

4. Add Spices for More Flavor:- Adding the right amount of spices makes a big difference in taste. Along with red chili powder, turmeric, and garam masala, you can add a little coriander powder or black pepper for extra flavor. Adding carom seeds (ajwain) helps with digestion and gives a nice taste.

5. Make the Pakoras Extra Crispy:- For extra crunch, add 1 tablespoon of rice flour or corn flour to the batter. This helps make the pakoras lighter and crispier. You can also add a pinch of baking soda to make them fluffy and crispy. But don’t add too much, or the pakoras will become too airy.

6. Heat Oil to the Right Temperature:- The oil should be hot but not too hot. If it’s too hot, the pakoras will turn brown quickly on the outside but remain raw inside. If it’s too cold, the pakoras will absorb too much oil and become soggy. To check if the oil is ready, drop a little batter into the oil. If it rises immediately without burning, the oil is at the right temperature.

7. Fry in Small Batches:- Do not put too many pakoras in the pan at once. Fry them in small batches. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and makes the pakoras soft and oily instead of crispy. Stir gently while frying to ensure even cooking.

8. Drain Excess Oil:- After frying, place the pakoras on a paper towel or a wire rack to drain extra oil. This helps keep them crispy and prevents them from becoming greasy.

9. Sprinkle Chaat Masala for Extra Taste:- As soon as the pakoras are out of the oil, sprinkle a little chaat masala on top for a tangy and spicy kick. This adds more flavor and makes them taste even better.

10. Serve Hot for the Best Taste:- Paneer pakoras taste best when they are fresh and hot. Serve immediately with green chutney, tamarind chutney, or ketchup. Pair with hot tea or coffee for a perfect snack.

By following these expert tips, you can make the best crispy and delicious paneer pakoras at home. Whether you’re making them for a party, tea-time, or a rainy day treat, these tips will help you get perfect results every time.

Recipe Card

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Paneer Pakora Recipe (Easy and Quick to Make)

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes

1 Cup= 240 ml, 1 Tablespoon = 15ml, 1 Teaspoon = 5ml

Serves: 4 People

Ingredients:

Paneer: 200g (cut into cubes or slices)
Gram flour (Besan): 1 cup
Red chili powder: ½ teaspoon
Turmeric powder: ½ teaspoon
Cumin powder: ½ teaspoon
Carom seeds (Ajwain) (optional): ½ teaspoon
Garam masala: ½ teaspoon
Salt: ½ teaspoon (or as needed)
Ginger-garlic paste (optional): 1 teaspoon
Water: As needed
Oil: For deep frying

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the batter: Take a mixing bowl and add gram flour, red chili powder, turmeric, cumin powder, carom seeds, garam masala, salt, and ginger-garlic paste. Mix well.
Add water: Slowly add water and stir to make a smooth, thick batter. The batter should not be too thin or too thick.
Heat oil: Pour oil into a deep pan and heat it on medium flame.
Coat the paneer: Dip each paneer piece into the batter, making sure it is fully coated.
Fry the pakoras: Carefully drop the coated paneer pieces into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy.
Drain excess oil: Remove the pakoras from the oil and place them on a paper towel to absorb extra oil.
Serve hot: Enjoy paneer pakoras with green chutney, tamarind chutney, or ketchup.

Tips:

For extra crunch, add a pinch of baking soda to the batter.
You can air-fry or shallow-fry for a healthier option.
Sprinkle chaat masala on top for extra flavor.

Enjoy your crispy and delicious paneer pakoras.

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Try Different Variations of Paneer Pakora

Paneer Pakora is a delicious snack, but you can make it even more exciting by trying different variations. Here are some creative and tasty ways to make paneer pakoras with extra flavors and textures.

1. Stuffed Paneer Pakora (Extra Flavor with a Surprise Inside):- Take a thick slice of paneer and cut it into two thin layers without separating them completely. Spread green chutney, tamarind chutney, or garlic chutney inside. Press the layers together and dip the stuffed paneer in the gram flour (besan) batter. Fry until crispy and golden brown. This gives an extra burst of flavor inside the pakora.

2. Spinach Paneer Pakora (A Healthy and Tasty Twist):- Chop fresh spinach (palak) finely and mix it into the batter. Add a little extra gram flour to adjust the consistency. Dip paneer pieces into the spinach-infused batter and fry them. This version is more nutritious and has a unique taste.

3. Cheese Paneer Pakora (A Cheesy Delight for Cheese Lovers):- Cut paneer into two thin slices. Place a small slice of cheese (like mozzarella or processed cheese) between the two paneer pieces. Press them gently, dip in the batter, and fry until golden brown. When you bite into it, the melted cheese gives a creamy and delicious texture.

4. Mint & Coriander Paneer Pakora (Refreshing and Flavorful):- Add finely chopped fresh mint leaves and coriander leaves to the batter. This gives the pakoras a fresh, aromatic taste. You can also mix a little mint chutney directly into the batter for more flavor.

5. Tandoori Paneer Pakora (A Smoky, Spicy Version):- Marinate paneer cubes in yogurt, tandoori masala, lemon juice, and a little ginger-garlic paste for 15-20 minutes. Then, dip the marinated paneer in the gram flour batter and fry. This gives a delicious smoky and spicy taste similar to tandoori dishes.

6. Sesame Paneer Pakora (Extra Crunchy and Nutty):- Mix 1 tablespoon of white sesame seeds into the batter. Dip paneer pieces into the batter and fry as usual. The sesame seeds add a slight nuttiness and extra crunch to the pakoras.

7. Masala Paneer Pakora (Spicy and Tangy):- Before frying, sprinkle extra spices on the paneer, such as chaat masala, black salt, or lemon juice. Then, dip it in the batter and fry. This version has an extra kick of spice and tangy flavor.

8. Besan-Coated Grilled Paneer Pakora (Less Oil, Same Great Taste):- Instead of deep frying, coat the paneer with batter and cook it on a grill pan with very little oil. This version is healthier but still crispy and delicious.

9. Chilli Garlic Paneer Pakora (Spicy and Bold):- Add finely chopped green chilies and garlic to the batter. This makes the pakoras extra spicy and flavorful. Serve with a spicy garlic chutney for a perfect combination.

10. Air-Fried Paneer Pakora (A Healthy Alternative to Deep Frying):- Instead of deep frying, place the coated paneer pieces in an air fryer. Spray a little oil on them and cook at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway. This gives you crispy paneer pakoras with much less oil.

These different variations of paneer pakora will add excitement to your cooking! Whether you like it spicy, cheesy, crispy, or healthy, there is a version for everyone. Try these ideas and enjoy delicious paneer pakoras in new and tasty ways.

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Nutritional Value

Paneer Pakora is a tasty and protein-rich Indian snack made with paneer (cottage cheese) coated in a spiced gram flour batter and deep-fried until crispy. While it is rich in essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and vitamins, it is best enjoyed in moderation due to its calorie and fat content. Below is the detailed nutritional breakdown per serving (1 plate – approximately 6 medium-sized Paneer Pakoras).

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value (Based on a 2,000-Calorie Diet)	Health Benefits
Calories	350-400 kcal	20%	Provides energy and keeps you full.
Protein	14 g	28%	Paneer is a rich source of protein for muscle growth and repair.
Carbohydrates	25 g	8%	Provides sustained energy.
- Dietary Fiber	4 g	16%	Aids digestion and promotes gut health.
- Sugars	2 g	-	Naturally present in gram flour and spices.
Total Fat	22 g	34%	Provides healthy fats for energy and body functions.
- Saturated Fat	8 g	40%	Comes from deep frying; should be consumed in moderation.
Cholesterol	20 mg	7%	Moderate cholesterol content from paneer.
Sodium	450 mg	19%	Well-seasoned snack; reducing extra salt can help balance intake.
Potassium	180 mg	5%	Helps regulate fluid balance and muscle function.
Calcium	250 mg	25%	Essential for strong bones and teeth, mainly from paneer.
Iron	2 mg	11%	Supports oxygen transport and energy production.
Vitamin A	300 IU	6%	Supports vision health and immunity, found in paneer and spices.
Vitamin C	4 mg	5%	Boosts immunity and helps in iron absorption.
Vitamin D	10 IU	2%	Supports calcium absorption and bone health.
Vitamin E	0.8 mg	5%	Acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage.
Vitamin B6	0.2 mg	12%	Helps brain function and neurotransmitter production.
Folate (B9)	35 mcg	9%	Important for cell function and tissue repair.
Vitamin B12	0.5 mcg	20%	Supports nerve health and red blood cell production.
Magnesium	40 mg	10%	Helps with muscle relaxation and overall metabolism.
Phosphorus	120 mg	12%	Essential for strong bones and energy production.
Zinc	1.2 mg	10%	Boosts immunity and supports wound healing.
Copper	0.1 mg	5%	Helps in iron absorption and supports red blood cell production.
Selenium	7 mcg	13%	Aids thyroid function and reduces oxidative stress.
Manganese	0.4 mg	15%	Supports metabolism and bone health, mainly from spices like cumin and coriander.

Paneer Pakora is a protein-packed, flavorful snack that provides essential vitamins and minerals. Enjoy it with healthy dips like mint chutney or yogurt-based sauces to balance the richness. For a healthier version, try air-frying or shallow-frying instead of deep-frying.

How to Store and Reheat Paneer Pakora

Paneer Pakora tastes best when eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store and reheat them properly to enjoy later. Follow these simple steps to keep them crispy and delicious even after storing.

How to Store Paneer Pakora
1. Cool the Pakoras Before Storing:- Do not store hot paneer pakoras, as they will become soft and soggy. Let them cool completely at room temperature before storing.

2. Store in an Airtight Container:- Place the pakoras in a dry, airtight container to keep them fresh. Do not close the lid too tightly while they are still warm, otherwise, steam will make them soft. For extra crispiness, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb moisture.

3. Refrigerate for Short-Term Storage:- If you plan to eat the pakoras within 1-2 days, store them in the refrigerator. Keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. Avoid stacking too many pakoras on top of each other, as they may stick together.

4. Freeze for Long-Term Storage:- If you want to store paneer pakoras for up to 1 month, freeze them. Place the pakoras on a tray in a single layer and freeze for 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag or airtight container.

How to Reheat Paneer Pakora

1. Reheat in an Air Fryer (Best Method for Crispy Pakoras):- Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Place the pakoras in a single layer and heat for 3-5 minutes until crispy. This is the best method for getting back the original crispiness.

2. Reheat in an Oven or OTG:- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place pakoras on a baking tray and bake for 8-10 minutes. Flip them halfway through to heat evenly. This method keeps the pakoras crispy without making them oily.

3. Reheat on a Tava (Stovetop Pan):- Heat a non-stick pan (tava) on low flame. Place the pakoras and reheat for 3-4 minutes, flipping them occasionally. Add a few drops of oil if needed for extra crispiness. This is a good method if you don’t have an oven or air fryer.

4. Reheat in a Microwave (Not Recommended for Crispiness):- Place the pakoras on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 30-40 seconds on medium power. The pakoras will be warm but not crispy. To make them crispy after microwaving, heat them in a pan or oven for a few minutes.

Extra Tips for Storing and Reheating Paneer Pakora

Do not store pakoras with chutney or sauce – always store them separately to prevent sogginess.
Avoid reheating multiple times – reheat only the portion you need to keep them fresh.
Do not deep-fry again – this can make them too oily. Use an air fryer, oven, or tava instead.

By storing and reheating your paneer pakoras properly, you can enjoy their crispy and delicious taste even after a few days. Follow these simple tips to keep them fresh and tasty.

Conclusion

Paneer Pakora is a delicious and crispy Indian snack that is easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you are making it for evening tea, a family gathering, or a festive occasion, paneer pakora is always a hit.

In this post, we covered everything you need to know about making the best paneer pakoras. From selecting fresh paneer to preparing a smooth batter and frying them to golden perfection, every step plays an important role in achieving the perfect taste and texture. We also shared expert tips to make your pakoras extra crispy, different variations to try, and the best serving suggestions. You also learned how to store and reheat them properly to enjoy later.

So, gather your ingredients and start cooking this delightful treat today. Share your feedback and let us know how your Paneer Pakora turned out. We would love to hear about your experience and any special twists you added to the recipe. Happy cooking.

Frequently Asked Question

1. Is paneer pakora healthy?
Ans:- Paneer Pakora is a delicious and protein-rich snack, but since it is deep-fried, it is high in calories and fat. Eating it in moderation is fine, but for a healthier option, you can air-fry or bake the pakoras instead of deep-frying. Pairing it with a fresh salad or green chutney can balance the meal.

2. How much paneer can be eaten in 1 day?
Ans:- For a healthy diet, consuming 100-150 grams of paneer per day is generally safe. Paneer is rich in protein and calcium, but excessive intake can lead to digestion issues or increased fat consumption, especially if fried.

3. What is used in the kitchen to make delicious crispy pakoras?
Ans:- To make crispy pakoras, use gram flour (besan) as the batter base. Adding rice flour or cornflour makes the pakoras extra crispy. Also, using cold water in the batter and frying in hot oil at the right temperature helps achieve a crunchy texture.

4. Can I make paneer pakora without deep frying?
Ans:- Yes! You can make a healthier version of paneer pakora by air-frying or baking them. Air-frying at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes gives a crispy texture with less oil. Shallow frying is another option for reducing oil consumption.

5. Why do my pakoras turn out soft instead of crispy?
Ans:- If your pakoras turn out soft, it could be because the batter is too watery or the oil temperature is too low. To make them crispy:-

Ensure the batter is thick and coats the paneer well.
Add a little rice flour or cornflour to the batter.
Always fry in hot oil (around 175-180°C or 350°F) and do not overcrowd the pan.

7. What are the best dips to serve with paneer pakora?
Ans:- Paneer pakoras taste best with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or tomato ketchup. You can also serve them with a spicy yogurt dip or garlic chutney for extra flavor.

8. Can I use frozen paneer to make pakoras?
Ans:- Yes, you can use frozen paneer, but it’s best to thaw it properly before using. Soak it in warm water for 10-15 minutes to soften it and remove excess moisture before coating it in batter. Paneer Pakora is a great snack, and with these tips, you can enjoy it in the best way possible.

Paneer Pakora Recipe (Easy and Quick to Make)

What is Paneer Pakora Recipe?