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Indulge in the exquisite flavors of the Tandoori Paneer Sandwich, featuring zesty paneer filling accompanied by vibrant cilantro chutney (optional), tantalizing tandoori mayonnaise, and a generous layer of melted cheese with vegetables. This creation is an exquisite balance of spiciness and creaminess, Crafted to perfection, it offers a delectable experience that’s both fiery and cheesy. Elevate your weekend brunch with this culinary masterpiece that embodies a symphony of flavors.

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I haven’t shared many sandwich creations on the blog, but it’s high time for that to change. Sandwiches often get branded as straightforward and dare I say, uninspiring.

Yet, in my perspective, a touch of extra effort has the power to metamorphose a basic sandwich into an absolute masterpiece. And I’m confident that many of you will find yourselves nodding in agreement. While I must admit that in my day-to-day life, my sandwiches tend to lean towards simplicity—often just a tomato and avocado combo.

However, on occasion, especially during our leisurely weekend brunches or to mark those special moments, I wholeheartedly commit to elevating the ordinary sandwich. The latest result of such culinary exploration: is the sensational Tandoori Paneer Sandwich!

Within its embrace, you’ll discover the splendid symphony of paneer, onions, and peppers. These ingredients undergo a delightful metamorphosis as they marinate in tandoori masala and gracefully dance upon the grill.

The paneer sandwich recipe is a culinary delight that tantalizes the taste buds with its explosion of flavors. This tandoori sandwich recipe takes the essence of traditional tandoori cuisine and transforms it into a convenient and irresistible handheld treat.

At its heart lies succulent paneer, marinated in a rich blend of spices that evoke the smoky essence of tandoori cooking. The paneer is adorned with a medley of onions and bell peppers, adding a vibrant crunch to each bite. Grilled to perfection, these elements fuse together, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

What sets this sandwich apart is the meticulous layering of condiments. A spread of cilantro chutney adds a fresh, herbaceous kick, while sriracha mayonnaise infuses a delightful zing that cuts through the richness of the paneer. The final touch of melted cheese blankets the assembly, lending a creamy and indulgent note that perfectly balances the spice.

Whether relished as a quick lunch or savored during leisurely weekend brunches, the Tandoori Paneer Sandwich is a testament to the fact that a humble sandwich can be elevated into a culinary masterpiece. It caters to both simplicity and complexity, satisfying cravings for both familiar comfort and adventurous flavors.

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Easily Customizable

The beauty of this tandoori paneer sandwich recipe lies in its effortless adaptability; there’s a realm of creative freedom with no stringent guidelines.

Not a fan of mayonnaise? Embrace a double dose of cilantro chutney, generously spread on both bread slices.

Is cheese, not your preference? Feel free to omit it – the sandwich remains delectable and satisfying even without it.

Yearning for a vegan twist? Dive into the realm of plant-based goodness by substituting paneer with tofu, and opting for vegan yogurt, butter, and cheese. This sandwich seamlessly transforms to cater to your dietary choices while retaining its incredible flavors.

Ingredients

For Tandoori Marinade:

200g paneer (cottage cheese), cut into thin slices or cubes
2 tablespoons thick yogurt
1 tablespoon tandoori masala or paste
1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
Salt to taste

For Sandwich Filling:

8 slices of bread
1 medium onion, thinly chopped
1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
1 medium bell pepper (capsicum), thinly chopped
1 small cucumber, thinly sliced (Optional)
Butter or ghee for toasting
Salt and pepper to taste

For Mint Chutney (Optional):

1 cup fresh mint leaves
1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves
1 green chili (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt to taste
Water as needed

How to Prepare Tandoori Paneer Sandwich step by step:

Tandoori Marinade:

I have heated 2 tbsp oil in a kadai or pan. Once the oil is hot add chopped onions and fry till translucent. Then add chopped green bell peppers. Fry for 2 minutes. Then add paneer cubes and fry till golden brown. Then take them out once the paneer is golden brown.
Now in the paneer mixture add yogurt, tandoori masala I have taken store-bought, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt to make the marinade.
Now mix everything nicely ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even longer for richer flavors.

Mint Chutney (Optional):

Blend mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chili, lemon juice, and salt in a blender to make a smooth chutney. Add water as needed to achieve the desired consistency. Set aside.

Preparing the Filling:

Heat a grill pan or tawa (griddle) over medium-high heat.
Place the marinated paneer slices on the hot pan or grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side cooked through. Remove from heat.

Assembling the Sandwich:

Take a slice of bread and spread a thin layer of mint chutney or tandoori mayonnaise on it (if using). Place a lettuce leaves on top of the bread.
Arrange onion slices, tomato slices, bell pepper slices, and cucumber slices 9optional) on top of the lettuce leaves.
Sprinkle salt and pepper over the veggies. Now add the tandoori paneer mixture on top of the veggies.
Now place a slice of cheese on top of the mixture.
Now sprinkle red chili flakes and herb seasoning on the cheese slice.
Now place a bread slice on top.

Toasting the Sandwich:

Heat a pan or griddle over medium-low heat. Add butter to the pan and let it melt.
Place the sandwich on the pan and cook until the bottom side is golden brown and crispy.
Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula and cook the other side until it’s crispy and the cheese is melted.
Take it out on a plate and slice it in half. Your delicious Tandoori Paneer Sandwich is ready to be served hot.
Tandoori Paneer Sandwich

Important Suggestions to Keep In Mind

1. Marination is Key: Ensure the paneer is marinated well to absorb the flavors. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even longer for enhanced taste.
2. Use Thick Yogurt: When making the tandoori marinade, use thick yogurt to coat the paneer. This will help the marinade stick better and provide a creamy texture.
3. Balanced Spices: Adjust the spice levels in the marinade according to your preference. If you like it spicier, add more red chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper.
4. Veggies and Texture: Along with paneer, include sliced onions and bell peppers in the marinade for added flavor and texture.
5. Grilling Technique: If using a grill pan or tawa, make sure it’s preheated well before placing the marinated paneer. This helps in achieving those beautiful grill marks.
6. Melted Cheese: To get perfectly melted cheese, cover the sandwich with a lid while toasting. This traps the heat and helps the cheese melt evenly.
7. Condiments Balance: The cilantro chutney and sriracha mayonnaise complement each other well. Adjust the quantities based on your taste preferences.
8. Bread Choice: Choose sturdy bread that can hold the filling without becoming too soggy. Whole wheat or multigrain bread works well.
9. Layering: Assemble the sandwich thoughtfully, placing the paneer, vegetables, and condiments evenly to ensure each bite is balanced in flavors.
10. Vegan Options: If going for a vegan version, make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before marinating. Use vegan yogurt, butter, and cheese alternatives.
11. Skip the Smoking Step: If you don’t have access to charcoal for smoky flavor, don’t hesitate to skip that step. The sandwich will still be delicious.
12. Experiment with Garnishes: Consider adding fresh herbs like mint or micro greens for an extra burst of freshness and color.
13. Slice Carefully: Allow the sandwich a few moments to cool before slicing it. This prevents the filling from spilling out.
14. Serve Immediately: The Tandoori Paneer Sandwich is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve it immediately to relish the flavors at their peak.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your tantalizing Tandoori Paneer Sandwich with a side of crisp and refreshing Minty Cucumber Salad. This salad acts as the perfect cooling contrast to the sandwich’s bold flavors, offering a harmonious balance on your plate.

Storage Suggestion

For storing the sandwich overnight or longer:

Refrigeration: Place the wrapped sandwich in an airtight container or sealable plastic bag and store it in the refrigerator. The cold temperature will help prevent bacterial growth and maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
Cheese Separation: If your sandwich includes melted cheese, you can store the cheese separately from the sandwich and reheat it slightly before assembling the sandwich when you’re ready to eat.
Dressing Separation: If you’ve used any sauces or dressings that could make the bread soggy, consider packing them separately and adding them just before eating.
Remember that while storing the sandwich can help preserve it, the quality might not be the same as when freshly made. Enjoying it soon after preparation will give you the best experience.

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