Paneer Sandwich Recipe – Green Chutney & Chaat Masala Flavors

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Paneer Sandwich Recipe – Green Chutney & Chaat Masala Flavors

Introduction

Oh, the humble sandwich! It’s a classic for a reason, isn’t it? But sometimes, you just crave something a little…more. Something with a bit of a kick, a little bit of Indian flair. That’s exactly where this Paneer Sandwich comes in. I first made this when I was craving something quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor – and it’s been a family favorite ever since. It’s seriously the perfect blend of textures and tastes, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average sandwich. We’re talking soft, grilled paneer marinated in a vibrant green chutney, layered with fresh veggies, and a sprinkle of chaat masala for that signature tangy zing. It’s quick to make (especially if you have leftover paneer!), incredibly flavorful, and a fantastic way to enjoy a little taste of India in your lunchbox or as a quick snack. Plus, it’s easily customizable to your spice preference!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this deliciousness:

• 8 paneer slices
• 2 tbsp green chutney
• 1 tbsp hung curd/yogurt
• 0.25 tsp chaat masala
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 2-3 tsp oil
• 4 lettuce leaves
• 0.5 sliced onion
• 0.5 capsicum, rings
• 1 sliced tomato
• 0.5 sliced cucumber
• 4 whole wheat bread slices
• 2 tbsp butter
• Optional: Tomato ketchup

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients – because the right choices make all the difference!

Paneer: Choosing the Right Type & Texture

Paneer is the star here, so you want to make sure it’s good quality. I prefer using a firm paneer that holds its shape well during grilling. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores, or even some well-stocked supermarkets. About 200g of paneer is perfect for this recipe.

Green Chutney: Homemade vs. Store-Bought

Homemade green chutney is always best – the flavor is so much fresher! But if you’re short on time, a good quality store-bought version will work just fine. Just check the ingredients list to make sure it doesn’t have too much added sugar.

Hung Curd: The Secret to a Moist Marinade

Hung curd (or Greek yogurt) is key to keeping the paneer nice and moist during marination. To make hung curd, simply tie yogurt in a muslin cloth and let the excess water drain away for a few hours. It creates a thicker, creamier base for the marinade. About 100g of yogurt will give you enough hung curd for this recipe.

Chaat Masala: A Flavorful Indian Spice Blend

Chaat masala is a magical spice blend that adds a tangy, savory, and slightly fruity flavor. It’s a staple in Indian kitchens! You can find it at Indian grocery stores or online.

Bread: Exploring Different Varieties (Whole Wheat, White, Multigrain)

I love using whole wheat bread for a bit of extra fiber, but feel free to use whatever you prefer. White bread will give you a softer sandwich, while multigrain adds a nice nutty flavor.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, let’s marinate the paneer. In a bowl, combine the green chutney, hung curd, chaat masala, salt, and pepper. Gently coat the paneer slices with this mixture, ensuring they’re well covered. Let this sit for at least 30 minutes – this is where the flavor really develops!
2. Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Grill the marinated paneer for about 5 minutes per side, until it’s golden brown and has lovely grill marks. Set aside.
3. Now, butter one side of each bread slice. This is important – the butter creates a golden, crispy exterior when toasted.
4. On the buttered side of a bread slice, layer the lettuce leaves, onion rings, capsicum rings, tomato slices, and cucumber slices. Don’t be shy with the veggies!
5. Place the grilled paneer over the vegetables. If you like, drizzle a little tomato ketchup over the paneer – it adds a nice sweetness.
6. Top with another bread slice, buttered side facing out.
7. Heat a griddle or a clean pan over medium heat. Toast the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until both sides are crispy and golden brown.
8. Slice diagonally and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

Want to take your Paneer Sandwich to the next level? Here are a few tips I’ve learned over the years:

Achieving the Perfect Grill Marks on Paneer

Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the paneer. Don’t overcrowd the pan – grill in batches if necessary.

Preventing a Soggy Sandwich

Don’t overdo the chutney or ketchup. A little goes a long way! Also, make sure your vegetables aren’t too watery.

Balancing the Spice Levels

Adjust the amount of green chutney and chaat masala to your liking. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less and add more as needed.

Marination Time: How Long is Too Long?

30 minutes is ideal, but you can marinate the paneer for up to a couple of hours. Beyond that, it might become too soft.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ideas to spice things up:

Vegan Paneer Sandwich

Substitute the paneer with firm tofu, pressed to remove excess water. Use a vegan butter alternative and ensure your green chutney is vegan-friendly.

Gluten-Free Paneer Sandwich

Use gluten-free bread slices.

Spice Level Adjustment (Mild, Medium, Spicy)

• Mild: Use a mild green chutney and reduce the amount of chaat masala.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red chili powder to the marinade or use a spicier green chutney.

Festival Adaptations (Navratri, Janmashtami)

During fasting periods like Navratri, you can skip the bread and serve the grilled paneer and vegetables as a chaat!

Adding a Tangy Twist with Lemon Juice

A squeeze of lemon juice over the vegetables before adding the paneer adds a lovely brightness. My grandmother always did this!

Serving Suggestions

This Paneer Sandwich is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• A side of raita (yogurt dip)
• A simple salad
• A cup of chai (Indian tea)

Storage Instructions

This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store leftover grilled paneer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is the best way to make hung curd at home?

Simply tie yogurt in a muslin cloth and hang it over a bowl for 4-6 hours, allowing the whey to drain.

Can I use other vegetables in this sandwich?

Absolutely! Feel free to add grated carrots, beetroot, or even spinach.

Can this sandwich be made ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble the sandwich just before toasting to prevent it from getting soggy. You can, however, marinate the paneer and chop the vegetables ahead of time.

What is chaat masala and where can I find it?

Chaat masala is a tangy spice blend used in Indian cuisine. You can find it at Indian grocery stores or online.

How can I adjust the spice level of the green chutney?

Adjust the amount of green chilies used in the chutney. Removing the seeds from the chilies will also reduce the heat.

Is it possible to bake this sandwich instead of grilling it?

Yes, you can! Bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.