Paneer Ghee Roast – A Vegetarian Ghee Roast Masterpiece

Looking for a dish that steals the spotlight? Paneer Ghee Roast is absolutely phenomenal explosion of flavor, with its bright red color, smoky spices, creamy flavor. This vegetarian version of a ghee roast is loaded with flavor and gained popularity in coastal Karnataka mainly from Mangalore and Kundapur over the years.

Paneer Ghee Roast is a vegetarian version of the popular Chicken Ghee Roast, where instead of chicken, fresh paneer cubes are coated in a delicious masala that is then roasted in aromatic ghee. There are great interplay of heat, tanginess, and sweetness infused with a delicious buttery delight.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Paneer Ghee Roast

• Paneer (250 g) – Soft and fresh cubes, homemade or malai paneer for supreme creaminess
• Shahji Ghee (4 tbsp) – Premium, pure clarified butter used for roasting spices and frying paneer
• Byadgi or Kashmiri Red Chilies (6–8) – Provide bright red color and moderate heat
• Guntur Red Chilies (optional, 1–2) – For extra spiciness
• Whole Spices (2 tsp each) –
  • Coriander seeds
  • Cumin seeds
  • Fennel seeds
  • Fenugreek seeds
  • Black Pepper

• Garlic (4 cloves) & Ginger (1-inch piece) – Grind into the masala for pungent depth

• Tamarind Pulp (1 tbsp) – Brings bright sour notes

• Jaggery (1 tsp) – Balances sourness with gentle sweetness

• Yogurt (2 tbsp, optional) – Adds creaminess in semi-gravy versions

• Curry Leaves (8–10) – Adds aromatics and authenticity

• Onion (1 small)

• Turmeric Powder (¼ tsp) & Salt (to taste) – For flavor and color

• Fresh Coriander (for garnish) – Adds freshness at the end

Health & Nutritional Insights

• Shahji Ghee: Known for its richness and aroma and has been traditionally used in South Indian cuisine and is an Ayurvedic staple for its digestibility and nutrient absorption.
• Paneer: A solid protein and a good source of calcium – therefore great for vegetarians!
• Whole spices: Offer antioxidants and digestive benefits, making this dish both enjoyable and health- conscious.

How To Make Paneer Ghee Roast

Step 1: Dry Roasting Whole Spices

• Dry roast the red chilies (Kashmiri or Byadgi chilies), coriander, cumin, fennel, fenugreek seeds and black pepper over low heat till they become fragrant.

Step 2: Preparing Masala Paste

• Blend the Roasted Spices with ginger, garlic, tamarind, jaggery, salt and some water to get a a vibrant, glossy paste.

Step 3: Marinate the Paneer

• Toss the paneer cubes in 2 to 3 spoons of the masala paste and add a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess if you like.
• Let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb all the flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Masala Base

• Heat 3 to 4 tablespoons of ghee in a pan, then add onions and a handful of curry leaves, fry until the onions turn translucent.
• Add the remaining masala with some turmeric powder and salt then roast on medium low heat until the oil separates and the paste becomes nice and glossy.

Step 5. Roast the Paneer

• Gently add the marinated paneer to the masala, coating all sides uniformly.
• Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until the sides are golden brown, and the masala sticks on to the paneer.

Step 6. Final Touch

• Check the seasoning, add salt or sugar as required.
• Top with another drizzle of ghee and fresh coriander.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect as a starter, side dish or a snack.
• Serve it along with neer dosa, appam, roomali roti, or even plain rice.
• Offer lemon wedges for a zesty hit and some crunchy papads.

Pro Tips

• For authentic aroma and flavor, always choose a premium and pure ghee like Shahji Ghee.
• Use fresh, homemade paneer for the best taste. Many cooks believe that makes all the difference.
• Don’t overcook paneer as it will lose its creamy bite.
• Grind spices freshly for a bold, authentic taste.
• Resting the paneer in warm water keeps it soft while frying.

Conclusion

Paneer Ghee Roast is not just another vegetarian dish – it’s a superb and sensational experience inspired by South Indian cooking. With the depth of flavor from Shahji Ghee, freshness from ground spices, and richness from the butteriness of paneer, this classic provides restaurant-quality excellence in the comfort of your kitchen. If You are looking to elevate your meals to the next level – this fiery, tangy and aromatic dish will always satisfies you.

So, round up your ingredients, light your stove, and let the deliciousness of Paneer Ghee Roast fill the kitchen! And, don’t forget to serve with your choice of sides and additional drizzle of Shahji Ghee to finish. This is a dish that’s sure to become a staple on your home menu!