Paneer Slab
A simple yet satisfying high-protein meal. A thick slab of paneer is marinated in yogurt and spices, then pan-seared until golden brown. Perfect for a quick lunch or post-workout meal.
For 2 servings
Prepare the marinade.
In a shallow dish, whisk together the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, black pepper, and salt. Mix until you have a smooth paste.
TIPUsing thick or hung yogurt will help the marinade cling better to the paneer.Marinate the paneer.
- Gently pat the paneer slabs dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Place the paneer slabs in the marinade, ensuring they are coated evenly on all sides.
- Let the paneer marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature. For deeper flavor, you can marinate for up to an hour in the refrigerator.
TIPPatting the paneer dry is crucial for achieving a good, non-soggy sear.Sear the paneer slabs.
- Heat the oil in a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned cast-iron tawa over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the marinated paneer slabs on the hot pan.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side, without moving them, until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Flip the slabs and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side until equally browned and cooked through.
TIPAvoid overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each slab gets direct heat and sears properly.Garnish and serve.
Remove the paneer slabs from the pan. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves, an extra sprinkle of black pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For best results, use fresh, soft paneer. If your paneer is hard, soak it in warm water for 15 minutes before marinating to soften it.
- 2A cast-iron pan will give you the best crust and a slightly smoky flavor.
- 3Feel free to add other spices to the marinade, such as chaat masala or dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi).
- 4This paneer slab is great on its own, but also works well in a wrap or on top of a fresh salad.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, a pan-seared paneer slab is very healthy. It's an excellent source of high-quality protein and calcium, making it great for muscle building and bone health. Since it's pan-seared with minimal oil, it's also relatively low in unnecessary fats and carbohydrates.
