Air Fryer Paneer: A Healthy, Quick Cooking Option?

Yes, you can cook paneer in an air fryer! This simple cheese, a common ingredient in Indian cuisine, can be seasoned and cooked on its own or used as an ingredient in a curry. It is a great vegetarian source of protein and can be cooked in an air fryer in under 15 minutes. The air fryer gives it a crispy exterior and a soft interior. You can also make it in larger batches, but you will need to work in batches so there is enough room in the air fryer basket for the paneer to cook properly.

Air fryer paneer tikka

Ingredients:

• Paneer
• Yogurt (Greek yogurt or hung curd)
• Ginger-garlic paste or finely chopped ginger and garlic
• Spices: turmeric, chilli powder, garam masala, coriander powder, kasoori methi, chaat masala, and salt
• Vegetables: onions, bell peppers, and any other veggies of your choice
• Oil
• Bamboo or stainless steel skewers (optional)

Method:

Start by cutting the paneer into 1-inch cubes. You can cut the veggies into similar-sized chunks. If using skewers, soak the bamboo skewers in water for a while. In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, and spices. You can also add grated beet for a vibrant red colour. Whisk until smooth. Add the paneer cubes and veggies to the marinade and toss well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for deeper flavours.

Preheat your air fryer to 360°F to 400°F (180°C to 204°C) for at least 3 minutes. If using skewers, thread the paneer and veggies onto them, alternating the pieces. Place the skewers in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each skewer for even cooking. You can also cook the paneer and veggies directly in the basket without skewers. Spray the basket and the top of the paneer with oil.

Cook in the air fryer for 8 to 15 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. The paneer tikka is ready when it has a crispy golden exterior and a soft interior. Serve immediately with chutney, naan, or rice. Enjoy the delicious and healthy dish!

Air fryer paneer cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for paneer in an air fryer depend on the type of dish you are preparing and the size of the paneer pieces. Here are some general guidelines and recipes to help you get started:

• For paneer tikka, cut the paneer into 2-inch by 1.5-inch steaks or cubes. Marinate the paneer in a mixture of yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, beets, and spices such as turmeric, garam masala, red chilli powder, chat masala, coriander, and cumin. You can also add dried fenugreek leaves and lemon juice to the marinade. Thread the marinated paneer onto skewers and place them in the air fryer basket. Spray the basket with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Cook at 360°F (180°C) for 8 minutes for slightly charred edges. If you want them more well-done, you can cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
• For crispy paneer, cut the paneer into 1-inch cubes. You can season the paneer cubes with a mixture of oil, paprika, coriander, cumin, turmeric, and salt, or use other seasonings of your choice. Place the seasoned paneer cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F for 15 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through. This will result in a crispy golden exterior.
• For a quicker cooking time, you can cook the paneer at a higher temperature. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for 3 minutes. Cut the paneer into 1-inch cubes and toss them with oil and your desired seasonings. Place the seasoned paneer cubes in the air fryer basket and cook for 5-8 minutes, until crispy on the outside but still soft and spongy on the inside.

It's important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the model of your air fryer, so be sure to adjust the time and temperature as needed. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.

Air fryer paneer seasoning

Air fryer paneer is a quick, easy, and tasty snack, appetiser, or side dish. It can be seasoned and cooked in many ways.

Paneer is a simple, non-melting cheese, common in Indian cuisine. It is made with milk and an acid such as lemon juice, vinegar, or citric acid. The acid causes the milk to separate into curds and whey. The curds are then pressed into a square or rectangular shape.

Paneer is a fantastic source of vegetarian protein and can be seasoned and cooked on its own or as an ingredient in a curry. It is naturally high in protein and low in carbs, making it a healthy snack.

To cook paneer in an air fryer, first, cut the paneer into cubes that are approximately 1” in size. Then, preheat your air fryer to 400ºF (204ºC) for at least 3 minutes, according to your manufacturer’s instructions. Next, add avocado oil or olive oil to a large bowl, along with spices such as paprika, coriander, cumin, turmeric, and salt. You can also add cayenne pepper for a spicier taste. Stir the spices and oil together to form a paste. Now, add the paneer cubes to the bowl and toss them well to coat them in the seasoned oil. Finally, place the paneer into the air fryer in a single layer and cook for 5-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through if possible. The paneer is done when it is crispy on the outside and still spongy when squeezed.

You can also try different seasoning blends such as garam masala or curry powder, or get creative and experiment with other spices to find your perfect flavour combination. For example, ginger-garlic paste, beets, and spices can be whisked with yogurt to make a marinade for the paneer. After coating the paneer in the marinade, spray an air fryer tray with oil, arrange the paneer, and spray the top with oil. Cook at 380°F (190°C) for 11-13 minutes.

Another variation is to make paneer popcorn or nuggets by tossing the paneer in breadcrumbs and frying them until golden. You can also add other seasonings like kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), garlic powder, or onion salt to the paneer nuggets recipe.

Air fryer paneer as a snack or appetiser

Air Fryer Paneer is a quick, easy, and healthy snack or appetiser that can be made in under 15 minutes. It is a simple recipe that is naturally gluten-free, keto-friendly, and high in protein. The air fryer gives the paneer a crispy texture on the outside while keeping it soft and spongy on the inside.

Paneer, also known as Indian cottage cheese, is a simple cheese made with milk and an acid such as lemon juice, vinegar, or citric acid. The acid causes the milk to separate into curds and whey, and the curds are then pressed into a square or rectangular shape. Paneer is a common ingredient in Indian cuisine and is a fantastic source of vegetarian protein.

To make Air Fryer Paneer, start by cutting the paneer into 1-inch cubes. Then, add avocado or olive oil, salt, and spices such as paprika, coriander, cumin, turmeric, garam masala, or curry powder to a large bowl and stir to form a paste. You can also use ginger-garlic paste, yogurt, and beets for additional flavour. Add the paneer cubes to the bowl and toss well to coat them in the seasoned oil.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for at least 3 minutes, or according to your manufacturer's instructions. Place the paneer cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 5-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through if possible. The paneer is done when it is crispy on the outside but still spongy when squeezed gently. Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro if desired.

For an extra crispy texture, you can coat the paneer with breadcrumbs before air frying. You can also serve the air fryer paneer on skewers or with toothpicks, making it a perfect appetiser or snack for any get-together or barbecue.

Air fryer paneer reheating

Reheating paneer in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to restore its crispiness. Here is a step-by-step guide for reheating your paneer:

Firstly, it is important to note that paneer is best served immediately after cooking. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Paneer can be refrigerated for up to 3 to 4 days and still taste fresh.

When you're ready to reheat, take the desired amount of paneer out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This step is optional but helps ensure even reheating. Preheat your air fryer to a lower temperature than you would typically use for cooking, somewhere between 350-380°F.

Place the paneer in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring the pieces are not crowded. This allows for even heating and helps maintain the crispiness. Reheat for 4 to 6 minutes, keeping an eye on the paneer to prevent overcooking, as it can dry out easily.

You can also reheat paneer in the microwave or on the stovetop. To use the microwave, place the paneer on a microwave-safe dish lined with a damp paper towel. Heat on high power for 45 seconds. Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop, but be careful not to overcook the paneer, as it may dry out.

With these simple steps, you can enjoy your leftover paneer with a crispy exterior and a soft interior, just like freshly cooked paneer!

Frequently asked questions