Paneer is one of the easiest and most versatile ingredients used in Indian cooking. It cooks quickly, tastes delicious, and works well in curries, snacks, sandwiches, and even rice dishes. If you are new to cooking or still learning your way around the kitchen, paneer is the perfect ingredient to begin with. In this guide, you will learn simple, beginner-friendly paneer recipes with easy step-by-step instructions that anyone can follow.
All the recipes in this guide require basic ingredients, minimum effort, and no advanced cooking skills. They are also perfect for students, busy professionals, and anyone who wants to enjoy homemade meals without spending hours in the kitchen. If you want more simple recipes like these, make sure to check out other easy dishes on myfirstrecipe.com.
Now let’s begin with the most beginner-friendly paneer recipes.
Why Paneer Is Great for Beginners
Paneer is soft, creamy, and mild in taste. It absorbs flavours very well, so you do not need too many spices to make a tasty dish. Paneer does not melt like cheese, so it keeps its shape during cooking. This makes it perfect for first-time cooks because you do not have to worry about overcooking or ruining the dish.
Paneer is also rich in protein and calcium, which makes your meals more nutritious. Whether you are looking for something quick for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, paneer can be used in many simple and delicious ways.
Tips Before You Start Cooking Paneer
Fresh paneer is always best for cooking. If you are using store-bought paneer, soak it in warm water for 10 minutes before cooking. This keeps it soft and improves the taste. Always cut paneer gently so it doesn’t break.
Use basic spices like turmeric, coriander powder, red chilli powder, and cumin seeds. These everyday spices are more than enough to make a tasty paneer dish at home.
Now let’s get into the recipes.
Simple and Quick Paneer Recipes for Beginners
Paneer Bhurji (Scrambled Paneer)
Paneer Bhurji is one of the easiest paneer recipes for beginners. It cooks in under 15 minutes and tastes delicious with roti, paratha, or bread.
Ingredients
Paneer, onion, tomato, green chilli, turmeric, salt, coriander leaves, and oil.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Heat some oil in a pan and add chopped onions. Saute them until they turn soft. Add chopped tomatoes and green chillies. Cook until the tomatoes become mushy. Add turmeric and salt, then mix everything well.
Crumble the paneer using your hands and add it to the pan. Mix gently and cook for a few more minutes. Add fresh coriander leaves before switching off the flame.
Your paneer bhurji is ready to serve. This simple recipe is perfect for beginners and can be made even when you are in a hurry.
Paneer Butter Masala (Beginner Version)
Paneer Butter Masala is one of the most loved paneer curries. The beginner version of this recipe uses basic ingredients and simple steps so that anyone can make it at home.
Ingredients
Paneer cubes, tomato puree, cream, butter, salt, sugar, garam masala, and red chilli powder.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Heat butter in a pan and add tomato puree. Cook this mixture until it thickens slightly. Add red chilli powder, garam masala, salt, and a small amount of sugar to balance the flavours.
Add water to adjust the consistency. Add the paneer cubes and cook for a few minutes. Finish the dish with a spoon of cream for a smooth texture.
This recipe uses simple steps but still gives restaurant-style taste. It pairs well with roti, naan, and jeera rice.
Paneer Sandwich (Quick Breakfast Recipe)
If you want a fast breakfast or a simple evening snack, a paneer sandwich is the easiest option. It requires no fancy ingredients and can be made in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Paneer, bread slices, salt, pepper, butter, onions, capsicum, and some simple spices.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mash paneer in a bowl and add chopped onions and capsicum. Add salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. Spread butter on bread slices and add the paneer filling.
Toast the sandwich on a pan until both sides become golden and crisp. Your simple paneer sandwich is ready.
This is perfect for kids, beginners, and anyone looking for a light and tasty meal.
Paneer Pulao (One-Pot Meal)
Paneer Pulao is a one-pot meal that even beginners can make easily. It is flavourful, filling, and perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Rice, paneer cubes, peas, onions, ginger-garlic, cumin, and simple spices.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Wash your rice and keep it aside. Heat oil or ghee in a pan and add cumin seeds. Add sliced onions and saute until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
Add paneer cubes and lightly fry them. Add peas, rice, and spices like turmeric, salt, and garam masala. Add water and cook until the rice becomes fluffy.
Paneer pulao is a simple but tasty recipe that can be made in a cooker or pan.
Extra Beginner-Friendly Paneer Ideas
Paneer Tikka (Stovetop Version)
Even if you do not have an oven, you can still make paneer tikka at home. Mix paneer cubes with curd, turmeric, red chilli powder, and salt. Marinate for 15 minutes and roast them on a pan until golden. It tastes great with mint chutney.
Paneer Stir Fry
This is a very simple dish made with paneer, capsicum, and onions. Cook everything in a pan with basic spices and enjoy it as a side dish or wrap it in roti.
Paneer Paratha
Mix crumbled paneer with spices and stuff inside dough to make soft, flavourful parathas. This is perfect for breakfast or lunch.
Tips to Make Your Paneer Dishes Better
Use fresh paneer whenever possible. Always cook paneer on low to medium heat so that it stays soft. Add paneer towards the end of cooking because paneer can become rubbery if cooked for too long.
If you want to explore more simple recipes like this, you can check out similar beginner-friendly recipes on myfirstrecipe.com for everyday cooking ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is paneer good for beginners?
Yes, paneer is very beginner-friendly. It cooks fast, tastes delicious, and does not require complicated techniques.
Can I make paneer at home?
Yes, you can easily make paneer by boiling milk and adding lemon juice or vinegar. Once it curdles, strain and set it.
Why does paneer become rubbery?
Paneer becomes rubbery when it is overcooked. Always cook it for a short time on low to medium flame.
What is the easiest paneer recipe?
Paneer bhurji, paneer sandwich, and paneer stir fry are the easiest recipes for first-time cooks.
How do I store leftover paneer?
Keep paneer in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Soak it in warm water for a few minutes before using again.
