Chilli Paneer Bao: Spicy Delights

Imagine biting into a fluffy bao bun, its pillowy softness giving way to a flavorful, saucy filling of chilli paneer. This fusion dish combines the best of Asian street food with Indian spices, creating a taste explosion in every bite. Medium-sized sticks of paneer are tossed in a vibrant, umami-rich sauce, then nestled into flat bao buns for the perfect handheld treat.

This dish is perfect for a snack, party appetizer, or even a light meal, and it gives the classic chilli paneer and bao a nice twist. Let’s get to the recipe!

Ingredients for Chilli Paneer Bao:

For the Bao Buns:

• All-Purpose Flour (Maida) – 2 cups
  • This makes up the foundation of the soft, fluffy buns.
• Instant Yeast – 1 tsp
  • This helps the buns rise perfectly.
• Sugar – 1 tbsp
  • Adds a slight sweetness and helps activate the yeast.
• Salt – ½ tsp
  • Balances the flavors.
• Milk – ½ cup (warm)
  • Gives richness to the dough.
• Oil – 1 tbsp
  • Makes the dough smooth and does not stick.

For the Chilli Paneer Filling:

• Paneer – 250 g (cut into medium-sized sticks)
  • It is a protein-rich and creamy ingredient which soaks the sauces well.
• Cornflour – 3 tbsp
  • Gives a crispy coat to the paneer
• Capsicum (Green Bell Pepper) – 1 (sliced)
  • It gives crunch and freshness
• Onion – 1 (cubed)
  • It gives a slight sweetness and texture.
• Garlic – 4 cloves (minced)
  • Increases the umami and aromatic flavor.
• Green Chilies – 2 (slit)
  • For the spicy flavor
• Soy Sauce – 2 tbsp
  • It gives a salty, umami flavor.
• Red and Green Chili Sauce – 1 tbsp
  • It gives a tangy heat.
• Tomato Ketchup – 2 tbsp
  • It gives sweetness and a little tang.
• Vinegar – 1 tsp
  • Balances the flavors with acidity.
• Salt & Pepper – To taste
  • Seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• Sesame Oil
  • Sesame oil for Authentic Asian flavor
• Spring Onions – To Garnish
  • Chopped Spring onions to infuse the Flavors.

Prep Time for Chilli Paneer Bao:

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes

Bao Buns Recipe

To Make Dough:

In a large bowl, take warm water. Add sugar and yeast. Let the mixture sit there for 5-7 minutes until frothy. Add the flour, salt, milk and oil. It should be smooth dough.

Prove the Dough:

Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.

Shape the Buns:

Divide the dough into equal portions. Roll each portion into a flat oval shape, fold gently, and place on parchment paper.

Steam the Buns:

Steam the shaped buns in a steamer for 8-10 minutes. They should be soft and fluffy.

Making Chilli Paneer for Chilli Paneer Bao:

Prepare Paneer Sticks:

Coat paneer sticks in cornflour, salt, and pepper. Shallow fry until golden and crispy.

Vegetable Stir-fry:

Heat sesame oil in a pan. Sauté garlic, ginger, and green chilies until fragrant. Add onions and capsicum; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce:

Mix soy sauce, chili sauce, tomato ketchup, and vinegar in a small bowl. Add this mixture to the stir-fried vegetables.

Mix with Paneer:

Add fried paneer into the sauce and mix well to coat evenly. Cooking for 2 minutes till all flavors are absorbed. Season according to taste.

Stuffing of Bao:

Open the steamed bao buns gently and fill the bao with plenty of saucy chili paneer. Top with chopped spring onions.

Serve:

Serve hot as a snack or appetizer, served with a side of spicy dipping sauce.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 320 | Protein: 10g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 450mg

Conclusion:

Serve the chilli paneer bao hot and fresh. The chili-garlic sauce or sweet chili sauce would also complement the combination of the mouthwatering flavor. The pairing with mocktails such as a frozen green apple mojito or a chilled iced tea goes hand in hand with this experience.

Taste this delectable fusion for yourself and awe your guests with bao buns made with comfort that combines saucy chilli paneer-A perfect blend of cultures awaits you!

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