Here’s a detailed recipe for crispy cottage cheese sticks (paneer fingers) that are crunchy outside and soft inside—perfect as a snack or appetizer.
🧀 Crispy Cottage Cheese Sticks Recipe
🛒 Ingredients
- 250 g paneer, cut into finger-sized sticks
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornflour
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- ½ cup water (or as needed for batter)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- Oil for frying
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the batter
- Mix all-purpose flour, cornflour, chili powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt.
- Add water gradually to make a smooth, thick batter (not too runny).
2. Coat the paneer
- Dip each paneer stick into the batter.
- Roll it in breadcrumbs for a crunchy outer layer.
- For extra crispiness, double coat by repeating the batter + breadcrumb step.
3. Fry the sticks
- Heat oil on medium flame.
- Fry sticks until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
4. Serve
- Serve hot with ketchup, mint chutney, or garlic mayo.
🌿 Variations
- Spicy: Add chili flakes or paprika to the batter.
- Cheesy: Mix grated cheese into breadcrumbs.
- Garlic-herb: Add dried oregano, thyme, or garlic powder to breadcrumbs.
- Air fryer/oven: Spray with oil and cook at 180°C for 10–12 mins (air fryer) or 200°C for 15–20 mins (oven).
💡 Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh, firm paneer to prevent breaking.
- Oil temperature should be medium-hot, so the outside crisps while inside stays soft.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying—this helps even cooking.
I can also give you a fast-food style restaurant version that’s extra crunchy and spicy if you want. Do you want me to do that?
