The paneer sandwich is a delightful Indian-inspired creation featuring a filling made with crumbled or grated paneer, a type of Indian cottage cheese. The paneer is cooked with a blend of spices, onions, tomatoes, and capsicum (bell pepper) to create a flavorful mixture. This filling is then sandwiched between bread slices, optionally paired with condiments like green chutney or tomato ketchup and even layered with cheese for added richness. Toasted or grilled to perfection, it’s a savory and satisfying treat cherished for its blend of spices and comforting textures, making it a popular choice for a quick snack or light meal.
Here’s a detailed recipe:
Ingredients:
For Paneer Filling:
- 200 grams paneer (Indian cottage cheese), crumbled or grated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small tomato, finely chopped
- 1 small capsicum (bell pepper), finely chopped
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon oil
For Sandwich:
- 8 slices of bread (white, whole wheat, or multigrain)
- Butter or ghee (for spreading)
- Green chutney or mint-coriander chutney (optional)
- Tomato ketchup (optional)
- Sliced cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare Paneer Filling:
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for a minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
- Add chopped capsicum and cook for a couple of minutes until it slightly softens but retains crunch.
- Add cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.
- Add crumbled or grated paneer. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Take two slices of bread. Spread butter or ghee on one slice and green chutney or tomato ketchup on the other slice, if desired.
- Place a generous amount of the prepared paneer filling on one slice of bread.
- If using, place a slice of cheese on top of the filling.
- Close the sandwich with the other slice of bread, spread side down.
- Toast the Sandwich:
- Heat a sandwich maker, panini press, or griddle.
- Spread butter or ghee on the outer sides of the sandwich.
- Place the sandwich on the heated surface and toast until golden brown and crisp on both sides. If using a griddle or pan, flip the sandwich to toast both sides evenly.
- Serve:
- Once toasted, remove the sandwich from the heat.
- Cut the sandwich diagonally into halves or quarters.
- Serve hot with extra chutney, ketchup, or a side salad if preferred.
Tips:
- Customize the sandwich by adding finely chopped veggies like carrots, spinach, or peas to the paneer filling.
- You can also add a pinch of chaat masala or dried herbs for added flavor.
- Use your choice of bread for variation, like focaccia or ciabatta for a unique twist.
Enjoy this scrumptious paneer sandwich, packed with flavorful paneer filling, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack!
