Air-Fried Paneer: The Perfect High-Protein Snack, Life in canada

Seasoned, crispy air-fried paneer is the perfect high-protein snack or party appetizer, golden on the outside and soft in the middle.

The first time I tried paneer was during my trip to India when I was in my twenties.

In fact, I travelled to India twice because there was so much to see, the food was delicious, and the people were welcoming.

Growing up in the UK, eating Indian food is as common as Chinese food is in Canada.

These days, you can find Indian food just about anywhere in Canada, including the grocery store.

As part of a high-protein diet, paneer can help you meet your daily protein goals.

Mrs. CBB had never tried Indian food before, so paneer was unfamiliar to her.

Although she was apprehensive about trying air-fried panner, she ended up loving it.

I served the air-fried paneer with a salad and a simple Greek yogurt-tahini dip featuring garlic, spring onion, lemon juice, lemon zest, tahini, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

What is Paneer?

Paneer is a popular, fresh Indian acid-set cheese, a staple in South Asian cuisine, made by curdling milk (cow or buffalo) with acid, such as lemon juice, resulting in a non-melting, protein-rich block used in various vegetarian dishes. Source: AI

How To Soften Paneer

If you want a soft paneer, most people online suggest soaking it in water for 30 minutes before use.

When eating paneer, it can be chewy, but there are ways to overcome this texture, such as soaking it to loosen it.

We prefer paneer that retains its shape when cut into cubes for the air fryer and is part of a high-protein snack.

Where To Find Paneer in Canada?

We live in Ontario and have found paneer in the dairy section of just about every grocery store.

You can also find paneer at every Asian supermarket; alternatively, if you have the time, homemade paneer is another option.

There are plenty of recipes on Pinterest for homemade paneer, but it’s easier for us to buy it.

Paneer will cost between $5 and $8 for up to 400g, which is reasonable for our grocery budget.

Below are a few popular brands available in grocery stores throughout Ontario.

Happy Dairy – Perfect For Air-Fried Paneer

This fluffy cheese is firm and can be easily cut into blocks.

Happy Dairy paneer can retain its shape for a long time, even when it’s cooked over high heat.

It tastes subtle & absorbs the flavors of the sauce and spices as it cooks.

Paneer is protein-rich & a perfect substitute for meat in vegetarian diets.

Its versatility makes it ideal for both traditional and international dishes, such as salads, burgers, pasta, pizza, and sandwich fillings.

• Happy Dairy Paneer 300 GR
• Happy Dairy is a non-melting Cheese
• 55g, 130 calories, 11g fat, 7g protein

Nanak

Paneer is a fresh cheese commonly found in South Asian cuisine.

Nanak Paneer is suitable for Entrees, Appetizers, Tandoori, and Barbecue vegetarian cuisine.

Nanak is an excellent quality paneer with good sliceability.

It is manufactured in a state-of-the-art, fully automated production line using scientifically proven technology.

Nanak is an excellent source of protein and calcium.

• Use within 5 days of opening
• Nanak Fresh Paneer 341g
• Nanak brand is an excellent quality paneer with good sliceability
• 30g, 90 calories, 7g fat, 8g protein

Brar’s Malai Paneer

Paneer is a fresh cheese originating from India. It is a soft, non-melting, and unaged cheese made by curdling milk with citric acid.

The word “paneer” entered the English language from the Hindi and Urdu term panīr, which originates from the Persian “panir,” meaning “cheese.”

Paneer is the most commonly used in traditional cuisines from the Indian subcontinent.

Paneer is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in main dishes, as well as desserts and snacks.

You can wrap it in dough and deep-fry it, serve it with spinach in a gravy, or even crumble it over a salad.

Brar’s can also be sweetened to make a wide variety of desserts!

• Authentic fresh taste
• Brar’s Malai Paneer
• 55g, 110 calories, 8g fat, 6g protein

TreStelle

Tre Stelle Paneer is a fresh, authentic, non-melting cheese used primarily in South Asian cuisines.

It has a mild, milk flavour and dense texture.

This highly versatile cheese absorbs flavour, making it a perfect high-protein source in strong, spicy dishes.

• Product of Canada
• Halal certified
• Tablet K Certified
• per 4 cm cube (55g), 150 calories, 10g fat. 15g protein.

Verka Fresh Paneer

Verka Fresh Paneer is a premium-quality Indian cheese made entirely from 100% pure, pasteurized milk.

They meticulously craft it to ensure top hygiene, authentic flavor, and a rich, creamy consistency.

The careful process yields a firm yet incredibly smooth structure, perfect for all your cooking needs.

This fresh dairy item is precisely and hygienically packaged using advanced sealing technology to lock in its inherent freshness.

Verka delivers guaranteed wholesome goodness and pure dairy quality directly to your table, ready for your favorite recipes.

• Made with two ingredients
• Soft, rich, and creamy texture
• High in protein and calcium
• No preservatives or artificial additives
• Hygienically processed and vacuum-sealed for freshness
• 30g, 80 calories, 6g fat, 6g protein

Best Paneer For Air Frying

Fresh paneer (firm, not crumbly) works best.

Store-bought or homemade is fine.

Cut into 1–1.5-inch cubes (too small = dry)

Storing Paneer in the Refrigerator (Best for short-term)

Here’s a simple, safe guide to storing paneer so it stays fresh, soft, and safe to eat

Fresh or Store-Bought(Opened)

Cut the paneer into blocks or cubes and place them in an airtight container. Fully submerge in clean drinking water. Close lid and refrigerate.

Important: Change the water every day. Use within 2–3 days (best texture).

Keeps paneer soft and moist

Store-Bought (Unopened)

Keep in original sealed pack. Refrigerate Use before the expiry date

How to Freeze Cut Paneer

Pat dry (no water). Spread on a tray and freeze 1–2 hours (prevents sticking).

Transfer to freezer-safe bag/container. Label with date.

Shelf life: up to 2 months

4 Signs Your Paneer Has Gone Bad

Before prepping to make air-fried paneer, check to ensure the product is fresh.

• Sour smell
• Slimy surface
• Yellowing
• Bitter taste.
• If you notice any of these, discard

How To Thaw Paneer

• Move the paneer to the fridge overnight, or soak the frozen paneer in warm, salted water for 10–15 minutes.
• Warm water restores softness
• Don’t leave uncovered.
• Don’t store without water in the fridge (dries out)
• Don’t refreeze once thawed

Popular Spices Used For Air-Fried Paneer

Below are the spices we always have stocked in our pantry, as I enjoy cooking Asian dishes.

I tend to store smaller amounts, as I prefer fresh spices, but it’s not the most cost-effective option, where larger quantities are often cheaper.

Spices (choose any): Paprika or chili powder, Turmeric, Tikka masala, Garam masala, Curry masala, Tandoori masala, Garlic powder, Nutmeg, Cardamom powder, Cloves, Cinnamon, Chinese Five Spice, and Black pepper.

You’ll also find fresh ginger, lemon, lemon juice, various vinegars, and oils in our kitchen, which I use frequently in everyday recipes.

How To Make Air-Fried Paneer Cubes

Air-Fried Paneer Ingredients

• 55 g cubed firm paneer
• 1-2 tsps avocado oil (your choice)
• 1 tsp corn starch
• Spices- add desired amount.
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• garlic powder (optional)
• 1 spring onion (garnish-optional)

Instructions For Making Air-Fried Paneer

1. Preheat air fryer to 190°C / 375°F
2. Cut paneer into 1–1.5 inch cubes (too small = dry)
3. Toss paneer with oil, cornstarch + spices (coat lightly)
4. Place in a single layer (don’t overcrowd)
5. Air fry 8–12 minutes
6. Shake or flip halfway
7. Optional: Air fry two more minutes for extra crisp

Notes

• Air Fry for longer if you want it crispier
• Pair with a side salad and your favourite dip
• Garnish with chopped spring onions
• Play around with different spice variations
• Perfect as a party appetizer or high-protein snack

If you like this recipe or have made it and would like to leave a comment, please do so below. I’d love to hear your feedback and learn about the types of spice blends you use. Also, please consider Pinning on Pinterest.

Thanks,

Mr. CBB