Crispy paneer finger is a delicious and easy Indian snack made with paneer, which is coated in a batter, then rolled with breadcrumbs and fried until golden crispy. These paneer fingers make a perfect starter, evening snack and can be enjoyed with mint chutney, tomato ketchup, mayonnaise or any dip of your choice.
Paneer Fingers Recipe
This recipe is inspired by chicken fingers but used paneer to make a delicious vegetarian version. You can deep fry the paneer for a crispy texture or air fry them for a lighter version.
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About Paneer Fingers
Crispy paneer fingers is an easy and delicious starter made using paneer. The recipe is super easy to make and can be prepared in just 20 minutes with simple ingredients.
You can deep fry the paneer fingers for a crispy texture or air fry them with little oil for a healthy version. The spice level can also be adjusted based on your taste, making it mild for kids or spicy for adults.
I like to marinate paneer with some chilli powder and salt to flavour it. you could add some lemon juice also. You could dip the paneer pieces in egg also, but I thought of making it entirely vegetarian.
Start by coating the marinated paneer with a batter made using flour, cornstarch, garam masala powder, chilli powder, ginger garlic paste and salt. Now coat them with breadcrumbs and fry until golden and crispy. I prefer using panko breadcrumbs.
Paneer is a good source of protein and calcium, which makes these fingers a tasty snack. Serve them hot with mint chutney, tomato ketchup, mayonnaise or enjoy simply with tea. You can add them to wraps or sandwich as well.
They are perfect for parties, evening snacks or kids lunch boxes. You can also replace paneer with tofu for a vegan version.
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Ingredients
- Paneer : Use store bought or homemade paneer. Cut them into finger sized strips or stick for making crispy paneer fingers.
- Spices : Chilli powder and garam masala powder are added to paneer and batter.
- Ginger garlic paste : Ginger garlic paste adds spicy aroma.
- All purpose flour and cornstarch: These both are used in batter. It helps the breadcrumbs stick well to the paneer.
- Bread crumbs : You can use regular breadcrumbs or panko crumbs for extra crispiness.
- Oil : Oil used for deep frying the paneer. Use any neutral cooking oil of your choice.
Step by Step Pictures
1)Cut paneer into fingers like shape. Add in red chilli powder, salt, garam masala powder and mix well. Set aside.
2)Take plain flour, cornstarch, ginger garlic paste, chilli powder, salt and water in a bowl and make it into a thick batter. Dip paneer in this batter.
2)Take breadcrumbs in a bowl. Take each batter coated paneer piece, roll it in the breadcrumbs really well.
3)Place this in a plate and chill in the fridge for 30 mins.
4)Heat oil for deep frying, drop the paneer pieces one by one till golden brown and crispy.
5)Strain using a slotted spoon and keep it on some paper towel to remove excess oil.
6)Serve hot with ketchup.
Expert Tips
- Use fresh and firm paneer so it stays in shape while coating and after frying.
- Cut the paneer into equal sized strips to make sure all the fingers cook evenly.
- Add water little by little while making the batter. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick, not too runny or too thick.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying. Fry the paneer fingers in batches for an even crispy texture.
- For a healthier version, air fry the paneer fingers by brushing or spraying a little oil on them until they turn golden and crispy.
Storage and Serving
Store the leftover paneer fingers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 days. Reheat them in an air fryer to bring back the crispy texture. You can freeze the coated, uncooked paneer finger for up to a month.
Serve the paneer fingers hot and fresh for the best crispy texture. Pair it alongside with mint chutney, tomato ketchup, mayonnaise or your favorite dip.
FAQ
Q. Can I make paneer fingers in an air fryer ?
Absolutely ! Preheat the air fryer to 180 degree celsius. Brush or spray cooking oil on the paneer finger and air fry them till crispy golden. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.
Q. Can I use tofu instead of paneer ?
Yes, you can replace paneer with tofu for a healthy vegan option.
Q. Why is my coating not sticking to the paneer ?
This usually happens when the batter is too thin. Make sure the paneer is dry and the batter is slightly thick so the breadcrumbs stick well. Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the paneer for a better coating.
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Paneer Fingers Recipe (Kids Friendly Paneer Fingers)
Crispy paneer finger is a delicious and easy Indian snack made with paneer, which is coated in a batter, then rolled with breadcrumbs and fried until golden crispy. These paneer fingers make a perfect starter, evening snack and can be enjoyed with mint chutney, tomato ketchup, mayonnaise or any dip of your choice.
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Paneer Fingers Recipe (Kids Friendly Paneer Fingers)
Amount per Serving
% Daily Value*
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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