Craving a protein-packed, vegetarian snack that’s ready in minutes? This Air Fryer Paneer delivers golden, crispy cubes bursting with flavor—perfect as an appetizer, salad topper, or light main dish. Whether you’re on a low-carb diet or just looking for a new way to enjoy paneer, this recipe is a total win!
🛒 Ingredients
- Paneer: 12 oz block, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Oil: 1 tbsp avocado or olive oil
- Spices:
- ¾ tsp smoked paprika
- ¾ tsp ground coriander
- ¾ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp turmeric
- ¾ tsp sal
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and let it preheat for at least 3 minutes.
2. Prepare Seasoning
In a large bowl, combine oil, paprika, coriander, cumin, turmeric, and salt to form a paste.
3. Coat Paneer
Add paneer cubes to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the seasoning paste.
4. Air Fry
Place the seasoned paneer cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the paneer is crispy on the outside and tender inside.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes.
- Healthy: High in protein, low in carbs, gluten-free, and keto-friendly.
- Versatile: Great as a snack, appetizer, or main course.
- Customizable: Adjust spices to suit your taste.
🌟 Air Fryer Spiced Paneer Bites
Ingredients
- Paneer: 12 oz block cut into 1-inch cubes
- Oil: 1 tbsp avocado or olive oil
- Spices:
- ¾ tsp smoked paprika
- ¾ tsp ground coriander
- ¾ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp turmeric
- ¾ tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer
- Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Mix Seasoning
- In a large bowl, combine oil, paprika, coriander, cumin, turmeric, and salt into a paste.
- Coat the Paneer
- Add paneer cubes and toss well to coat with the spice paste.
- Air Fry
- Arrange cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5–8 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crispy outside, tender inside.
Notes
🔍 Nutrition Information (Estimated per serving)
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 13g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Net Carbs: 3g
🍽️ What to Serve With It
- Green chutney or yogurt dip
- Warm naan or stuffed paratha
- Cucumber raita or mint yogurt sauce
- Over rice bowls, salads, or inside wraps or tacos
- As part of an Indian thali with dal, sabzi, and pickles
💡 Tips for Success
- Even Coating: Mix the spice paste thoroughly to coat every piece of paneer.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Spread the paneer in a single layer for even crisping.
- Shake Midway: Shake the basket halfway through to ensure all sides crisp evenly.
- Marinate for Flavor: Let the paneer sit in the seasoning for 15 minutes or more for deeper flavor.
- Reheating: To regain crispiness, reheat leftovers in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes.
🔄 Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red chili flakes for extra heat.
- Veggie Add-In: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or onions for color and crunch.
- Herby Twist: Add dried fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi) or a sprinkle of chaat masala post-cooking.
- Cheesy Option: Sprinkle grated cheese on top during the last minute of air frying.
- Wrap It Up: Use the crispy paneer in tacos, pitas, or wraps with yogurt sauce and veggies.
🔍 Nutrition Information (Estimated per serving)
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 13g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Net Carbs: 3g
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I use tofu instead of paneer?
A: Yes, firm tofu can be used as a substitute. Press it to remove excess moisture before seasoning and air frying.
Q: What if I don’t have an air fryer?
A: You can bake the seasoned paneer cubes in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 10–15 minutes, turning halfway through.
Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, or zucchini can be added to the mix for a colorful and nutritious addition.
✅ Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Paneer recipe is a game-changer for quick, healthy, and delicious vegetarian meals. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re new to paneer or a longtime fan, this recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy this versatile cheese.
