These Spiced and Seared Paneer Cubes make the perfect, flavor-forward appetizer for your next gathering! The combination of crispy exterior and soft inside with a savory spice blend make it a versatile winner for your guests. Have a guest with a vegan or dairy-free diet? Check out the recipe notes for an easy alternative.
12ouncesFirm TofuONLY for Vegan Version. Cut into 24 cubes. See Recipe Notes.
½teaspoonKosher SaltONLY for Vegan Version. For sprinkling over the Firm Tofu to help it drain. See Recipe Notes.
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Instructions
Cut 12 ounces Paneer into 24 cubes and place them in a gallon size zip top bag. (See Recipe Notes for vegan alternative.)
12 ounces Paneer
In a small bowl, thoroughly combine 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder, 1 teaspoon Onion Powder, 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt, ¾ teaspoon Ground Cumin, ½ teaspoon Ground Mustard, ½ teaspoon Paprika, and ¼ teaspoon Chipotle Powder. Mix in half of the 2 tablespoons Avocado Oil.
Pour the spiced oil into the zip top bag with the Paneer, seal it, and shake to coat.
In a sauté pan over medium high, heat the remaining half of the Avocado Oil. Once heated, add the spice coated cubes of Paneer to the pan and pan fry them until they are golden brown, flip them and continue browning the other side as well (about 6 to 8 minutes).
Remove the paneer from the heat to a serving dish and sprinkle them with 1 ounce Black Lava Jalapeno Wine Chips (lightly crushed).
TongsFor flipping the cubes. Could also use a Spatula.
Paper Towels For Tofu Version. Used for draining the tofu.
Notes
Alternative Vegan Version
Replace the 12 ounces of Paneer with 12 ounces of Firm Tofu.
After cubing the Firm Tofu and before seasoning it, lightly sprinkle it with salt and allow it to sit on paper towels for 15 minutes. Then pat it dry and add it to the zip top bag.