Paneer Bread Balls Recipe – Cottage Cheese & Bread Croquettes
If you’re on the lookout for a mouthwatering appetizer that combines the richness of paneer with the soft texture of bread, look no further than this Paneer Bread Balls Recipe. These golden, crispy balls are the perfect snack to serve at any gathering, whether it’s a cozy family get-together or a lively party. With a delightful blend of spices and wholesome ingredients like paneer (cottage cheese) and potatoes, these croquettes are sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Ingredients for Paneer Bread Balls
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 250 grams |
| Potatoes (Aloo) – boiled and mashed | 2 |
| Whole Wheat Brown Bread | 4 slices |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fresh Coriander Leaves (Dhania) | 4 sprigs, finely chopped |
| Salt | As required |
| Sunflower Oil | For cooking |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Energy (Calories) | ~180 kcal |
| Protein | ~7 grams |
| Carbohydrates | ~25 grams |
| Fat | ~8 grams |
| Fiber | ~3 grams |
| Sodium | ~200 mg |
Instructions for Making Paneer Bread Balls
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
To start making these Paneer Bread Balls, begin by preparing all your ingredients. You’ll need to soak the bread in milk or water and squeeze out the excess liquid. This will help the bread combine seamlessly with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the paneer, boiled and mashed potatoes, the soaked bread, and all the spices (cumin powder, garam masala, black pepper) along with the finely chopped coriander leaves. Add salt to taste.
Mix all the ingredients together until they form a dough-like consistency. Knead the mixture gently with your hands, ensuring that everything is well combined. Taste and adjust the salt or spices according to your preference.
Step 3: Shaping the Balls
Now, shape the mixture into small bite-sized balls, ensuring that they are of uniform size. Set them aside on a plate or tray.
Step 4: Cooking the Paneer Bread Balls
Preheat your Kuzhi Paniyaram Pan (or any similar shallow frying pan) over medium heat. Add a little sunflower oil into each cavity of the pan. Once the pan is hot, place the prepared Paneer Bread Balls into the cavities, ensuring they fit snugly.
Pan-fry the balls by gently turning them around with a spoon or tongs. Cook until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 10-12 minutes, making sure they are cooked through.
Step 5: Serving the Dish
Once cooked, remove the Paneer Bread Balls from the pan and place them on a plate lined with absorbent paper to remove any excess oil.
Serve these crispy, golden croquettes as an appetizer with a side of refreshing Greek Yogurt Dip or tangy Green Chutney. Pair it with a hot cup of Masala Chai for an authentic touch that will impress your guests. These Paneer Bread Balls are sure to become a crowd favorite!
Tips for Making the Best Paneer Bread Balls:
- For a Healthier Version: You can make these balls in an air fryer instead of pan-frying them. Simply spray them with a light coat of oil and cook at 180°C for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Texture: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the paneer and potatoes together before mixing with the bread.
- Customize the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the quantity of garam masala and black pepper to suit your taste.
- Serving Suggestions: These croquettes can also be served as a side dish with a light salad or as part of a larger Indian-themed meal.
Why You’ll Love Paneer Bread Balls
This recipe is an excellent way to incorporate paneer into your diet in a creative and flavorful way. Paneer, a fresh cheese commonly used in Indian cuisine, adds a rich texture and mild flavor to these bread croquettes. Paired with the subtle heat from spices and the earthiness of potatoes, these paneer balls are the perfect balance of savory and satisfying.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or just looking for a delicious snack, these Paneer Bread Balls are sure to impress. Serve them at your next party or get-together, and watch them disappear in no time!
