Tava Fried Paneer | Pan Fried Cottage Cheese

Two packets of milk got spoiled again. It was then that I made paneer out of the spoiled milk. I have been making cottage cheese at home since years out of spoilt or “phata hua doodh“. I wanted to try a different dish and most importantly I wanted the dish to be simple. I tried this tava fried paneer and the outcome was marvelous. My hubby who does not like paneer actually loved this dish. He loved it to such an extent that he got paneer from local superstore and asked me to make it again for him.

These succulent chunks of cottage cheese tasted even better when marinated overnight. The taste was mildly spicy. It is perfect to be served as a starter for a nice evening party. Surprise your guests with this quick and simple dish. These marinated paneer chunks can be used to make delicious Katti rolls/paneer wraps too.

Ingredients:                                             Serves: 4, Prep. Time: 20 Min’s
1 pack paneer / cottage cheese – 200 gmsFor the Marinade:
1 cup curds
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp tandoori masala (optional)
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp black pepper powder
1/2 cup gram flour/besan
1 tsp chat masala
1/2 tsp black salt/salt to taste
2 tablespoon Oil for shallow frying

Procedure:
In a mixing bowl, add curds and one by one add all the ingredients mentioned for the marinade. Mix well.

Cut the paneer into 1 inch squares and add them to the marinade. Let this get marinated for 20 Min’s.

Now heat the tava/pan, add oil and let it get heated. One by one keep the marinated paneer pieces on the pan. Ensure that the flame is low.

Flip the paneer pieces to the other side after 10 Min’s. Switch off the gas after another 5 Min’s.
Serve with green chutney or your favorite sauce.
This is a great starter for the vegetarians.