Paneer Popcorn is a modern twist on the traditional Indian cheese, paneer. While the exact origins of Paneer Popcorn are not well-documented, it is believed to have emerged in recent years as a fusion dish, combining elements of Indian cuisine with Western snack culture.
This innovative dish typically involves cutting paneer into bite-sized cubes or strips, coating them in a seasoned batter or breadcrumb mixture, and then deep-frying or air-frying until golden and crispy. The result is a crunchy and flavorful snack that pairs well with various dipping sauces or chutneys.
Paneer Popcorn has gained popularity as a creative appetizer or party snack, offering a vegetarian alternative to traditional popcorn chicken or other fried finger foods. Its versatility allows for experimentation with different spices and coatings, making it a favorite among home cooks and food enthusiasts looking to add a modern twist to classic Indian ingredients. While Paneer Popcorn may not have a long history, its innovative approach to incorporating paneer into a snack format has made it a hit among those seeking unique and flavorful culinary experiences.
“Snack time gets an upgrade with Paneer Popcorn – a crispy, creamy, and utterly delicious delight”
Paneer Popcorn
Ingredients
- 250 gms Paneer cubes
- 1/4 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder
- 1/4 tsp Dry Parsley
- 1/4 tsp Oregano
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- to taste Salt
- 1/2 cup Besan (gram flour)
- 1 tsp Ginger-Garlic Paste
- 2 to 3 pinches Turmeric powder
- A pinch of Baking Soda
- Salt as required
- 5-6 tbsp Water
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Combine Paneer with Kashmiri red chili powder, dry parsley, oregano, black pepper powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. Gently stir the paneer to ensure the cubes remain intact and don’t break.
- In another bowl, grab besan, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, kashmiri red chili powder, and baking soda.
- Pour water to the bowl and mix it to make a thick batter. The batter should be smooth and without any lumps.
- Dip each paneer cube in the batter till it is completely covered. Place the coated paneer in breadcrumbs.
- Fry the coated paneer till they are golden, the paneer popcorn is ready.