Paneer 65 (Indo-Chinese)

About this recipe

Paneer 65 is the dish that made paneer famous in Indo-Chinese restaurants—crispy-coated paneer cubes that arrive at the table still steaming, with a coating that crackles under your fork and a warmth of spice that builds as you eat. The name comes from its South Indian origins, but it's become beloved across Indian home kitchens as the perfect starter or snack. The yogurt marinade keeps the paneer tender while the cornflour-rice flour coating creates texture that's almost impossible to resist. The marinade is the secret: paneer cubes are coated in thick yogurt mixed with red chilli powder and ginger-garlic paste, allowed to sit for even just 15 minutes so the spices have time to cling to the cheese's surface. The rice flour in the coating contributes subtle graininess that cornflour alone can't provide—it creates a crust that's lighter and crispier, almost feathery at the edges. The cornflour adds crispness and helps the rice flour adhere evenly. Once coated, the paneer is shallow-fried in oil just until the coating yellows and crisps, which happens quickly because the paneer itself is already cooked. The technique that matters most is not overcooking: shallow-fry the paneer cubes for just two to three minutes total, moving them gently so they cook evenly without breaking. The coating should be golden-yellow and crispy, the paneer inside still soft and creamy. In the same pan, after removing the paneer, pop curry leaves and green chillies in the oil—the curry leaves' volatile oils release instantly, perfuming the oil. Toss the paneer back through, add a splash of soy and vinegar, and serve immediately. Spring onions scattered on top add freshness. Serve as an appetizer with chutneys and crackers, or over rice as a quick lunch. This is best served fresh from the pan while the coating is still crispy. Leftovers can be refrigerated for one day and reheated gently in a low oven, though the coating will soften slightly. At 22 grams of protein per serving, this is a complete meal that satisfies.