Paneer Toast Sandwich Recipe – Easy Indian Street Food Snack

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Paneer Toast Sandwich Recipe – Easy Indian Street Food Snack

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick, satisfying snack. And let me tell you, this Paneer Toast Sandwich is a total winner. It’s a childhood favorite, a super popular Indian street food, and honestly, it just hits the spot every single time. I first made this when I was craving something comforting and didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen – and it’s been a go-to ever since!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any sandwich. It’s a burst of Indian flavors packed into a crispy, cheesy bite. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is perfect for a quick breakfast, lunch, or evening snack. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover paneer! Seriously, who doesn’t love a recipe that’s both delicious and practical?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these amazing Paneer Toast Sandwiches:

• 2 teaspoons butter or oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• ½ cup finely chopped onions
• ½ cup finely chopped capsicum (red, green, or yellow bell pepper)
• ½ teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste!)
• ½ teaspoon coriander powder
• ½ teaspoon garam masala
• 1 cup grated paneer
• As required salt
• 4-6 slices bread (whole wheat, white, or brown)
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for garnish)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional, for garnish)
• 1-2 tablespoons butter or oil (for toasting)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference:

• Paneer: Use fresh, soft paneer for the best results. You can grate it yourself or buy pre-grated. If your paneer is a little dry, soak it in warm water for 10-15 minutes before grating.
• Garam Masala: This is the heart and soul of Indian cooking! It’s a blend of warming spices that adds incredible depth of flavor. You can find it at most grocery stores or online.
• Bread: Feel free to experiment with different types of bread. Whole wheat adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Brown bread is another great option. I sometimes even use a slightly sweet bread like milk bread for a fun twist!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, grate the paneer and set it aside. This makes it easier to mix into the filling.
2. Heat the butter or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté until fragrant – about 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when you can really smell that lovely aroma!
3. Add the chopped onions and capsicum to the pan. Cook until the onions soften and become translucent, usually around 5-7 minutes.
4. Now, sprinkle in the red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Stir well to coat the vegetables and cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom.
5. Add the grated paneer and salt to the pan. Mix everything together well and remove from the heat.
6. Lightly toast the bread slices on a buttered skillet over medium-low heat. Flip them over and spread the paneer mixture evenly on top.
7. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the paneer. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat until the cheese is melted and bubbly – about 2-3 minutes.
8. Garnish with red chili flakes and oregano (if using). Serve immediately with your favorite chutney or ketchup!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when toasting the sandwiches. Work in batches if necessary.
• For extra crispy toast, use a little more butter or oil.
• If you don’t have mozzarella, you can use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any other cheese that melts well.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Paneer Toast Sandwich: My friend, Priya, who’s vegan, swears by using a vegan paneer substitute and vegan mozzarella cheese. A little vegan butter on the bread makes it extra delicious!
• Gluten-Free Paneer Toast Sandwich: My sister has a gluten intolerance, so we always use gluten-free bread when making this for her. It tastes just as good!
• Spice Level Adjustments: If you like things mild, reduce the amount of red chili powder. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped green chilies.
• Festival Adaptations: This is a perfect quick snack for festivals like Janmashtami or Diwali when you want something tasty but don’t have a lot of time.

Serving Suggestions

These Paneer Toast Sandwiches are fantastic on their own, but they’re even better with a side of:

• Mint-coriander chutney
• Tomato ketchup
• A simple salad

Storage Instructions

These are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to restore the crispiness.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

What type of paneer works best for this recipe?

Soft, fresh paneer is ideal. Avoid using paneer that’s too firm or dry.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

You can prepare the paneer filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to assemble and toast the sandwiches just before serving.

What is garam masala and where can I find it?

Garam masala is a blend of ground spices common in Indian cuisine. You can find it in the spice aisle of most grocery stores or online.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any cheese that melts well will work.

How can I adjust the spice level to my preference?

Reduce or increase the amount of red chili powder. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Is this a good recipe for kids?

Yes! It’s a mild and flavorful snack that most kids enjoy. You can even leave out the chili flakes and oregano if they’re sensitive to spice.