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Chili Paneer with a side of Rice in a White Bowl

Air Fried Chili Paneer

Berry Berry Life
Air Fried Chili Paneer is a delicious fusion dish that combines the bold flavors of Indian spices with the tangy and spicy elements of Chinese cuisine. This popular Indo-Chinese recipe features crispy paneer cubes tossed in a savory and spicy sauce, making it a perfect appetizer or main course. Easy to make and incredibly tasty, Chili Paneer is sure to become a favorite in your home.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Air Fry Paneer

Chili Paneer

  • 3 Dried Kashmiri Red Chilies rehydrated and processed to a paste
  • 2 Green Chilies sliced lengthwise
  • 2 Cups Onions cut into large pieces with layers separated
  • 2 Cups Bell Peppers cut into large pieces
  • 2 Tbsp. Cooking Oil Safflower used in video
  • 1 Tbsp. Garlic minced
  • 1 Tbsp. Ginger grated
  • 2 Tbsp. Dark Soy Sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. Sweet Chili Sauce or Ketchup or Sweet and Sour Sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. Red Chili Sauce we used Ching's brand
  • 1 Tsp. Kashmiri Red Chili Powder Optional for more color
  • 1 Tsp. Brown Sugar
  • 1 Tbsp. White Vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp. Green Onions white part (for Sauce)
  • 2 Tbsp. Green Onion green part (for Garnish)
  • 1 Cup Water more if you like more sauce

Instructions
 

  • Soak the dried Kashmiri chilies in warm water for 10-15 minutes, and then process with a couple of spoon into a red Chili paste
  • Paneer Fry - In a large bowl, add the Paneer pieces along with All Purpose Flour, 2 Tbsp. Corn Starch, Salt and Black Pepper. Mix everything so all the Paneer pieces are coated with the dry mixture on all side. Then add 2-3 tablespoons of water, and mix until all the water is absorbed, and there is no more dry flour left. Only add a spoonful of water at a time, to avoid creating a runny batter.
  • Paneer Fry - Line the Air Fryer bucket/tray with parchment paper, and spray cooking spray. Then place all the paneer pieces spaced apart so they don't stick to one another, and crisp on all sides. Spray additional cooking spray on top, and fry for 15 minutes at 350 F , turning the pieces over half-way to crisp the bottom of the paneer pieces.
  • In a wok over medium heat, add 1 Tbsp. of Oil along with the Onions and Bell Pepper, Sauté for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flavors, and still retain their crisp. Afterwards, transfer them to a bowl for later use.
  • In the empty wok, add 1 Tbsp. of Oil, and allow it to heat up. Then add the minced Garlic, and grated Ginger and sauté for 1 minutes.
  • Then add the Green Chilies and Red Kashmiri Chili Paste, and Red Kashmiri Chili Powder and sauté until the oil becomes red.
  • Then add the Black Soy Sauce, Sweet Chili Sauce, Red Chili Sauce, Brown Sugar, and combine until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Then add 1 cup of water and bring this mixture to a simmer, and add the Corn Starch slurry (1 Tbsp. Corn Starch + 1 Tbsp. cold water) to thicken the sauce.
  • Add the Onions, Bell Peppers, white part of the Green Onions, Paneer pieces, and White Vinegar. Stir until all ingredients are coated with the sauce, and then turn off the heat.
  • Serve with Rice or Noodles, or Quinoa, or even enjoy it as an appetizer.
  • Enjoy :)

Notes

  • Paneer: Ensure the paneer is firm and fresh for the best texture.
  • Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying paneer to achieve a crispy exterior.
  • Sauce: Adjust the sauce ingredients to balance the flavor as per your taste preference.
  • Serving: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. If reheating, do so gently to avoid making the paneer chewy.

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 350kcal
Keyword Air Fry, Indo Chinese, Paneer
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